Helps the player overcome problems, by building up a complete picture of each piece, through rhythmic and melodic exercises related to specific technical issues, then by studying prepared pieces with associated questions, and finally 'going solo' with a series of meticulously-graded sight-reading pieces.

This series of very practical and productive workbooks, one per grade, was published several years ago and has been updated, according to the cover blurb, 'to support the revised ABRSM sight-reading criteria' in the 2009 syllabus. With hundreds of fascinating, short character pieces it is an inexhaustible resource for lessons - and delightful music in its own right. Helpful tips and tricks will improve pupils' chances of gaining more marks in this bit of the exam, and this is an honest, well-designed, reasonably priced package. I would recommend its use outside the exam preparation period rather than at the last minute, because the skills picked up will help in every aspect of piano playing, aural perception and general musical awareness. Piano Magazine, January 2009