What does my child have to do?
Exams consist of several components and are marked out of a maximum points system. Your tutor will be preparing your child for each component of the exam, but we recommend that you also understand what is required, so that you can help your child to practice. The maximum marks that can be awarded are shown in brackets below:
- 3 Pieces (30 marks each)
2 accompanied by a pianist
1 study, unaccompanied
- Scales (21 marks)
- Sight-Reading (21 marks)
- Aural Tests (18 marks)
Pieces
Three pieces must be played in the exam and there are three lists published by the Associated Board with a variety of titles to choose from. If you would like to look at the complete current AB syllabus, you can request a free copy from Normans on 08000 281415. Although our tutor will have recommendations (favourite pieces!), together the pupil and the tutor must choose:
1 piece from List A (30 marks)
1 piece from List B (30 marks)
1 piece from List C (30 marks)
Scales
Scales are sequences of notes that first rise and then fall in pitch. There are different types of scales, and each instrument and grade has a different selection of scales that must be played from memory and prepared both slurred and tongued. The examiner will ask the pupil for a selection of the scales learnt (it is unlikely that every scale will be asked for, but all must be learnt, just in case!).
Sight-Reading Test
Sight-Reading involves the pupil playing a short piece that they have not seen before. The pupil is given approximately 30 seconds to look at the music and should note the musical features of the piece, such as key signature, dynamics, articulation, rhythm and accidentals. Most importantly, once the pupil has started to play, they should try to keep going, even if they make small mistakes!
Aural Tests
Aural tests are ‘listening’ tests played by the examiner on a piano. The tests differ and increase in difficulty towards the higher grades. For their first grade, candidates are requested to:
A Tap or clap the pulse and state the time of a piece played by the examiner
B Sing, whistle or hum 3 short phrases as an echo
C Recognise and explain changes in a short phrase played twice
D Identify musical features of a short piece played by the examiner e.g. dynamics
Teachers are aware that examinations affect all pupils differently. We always endeavour not to place pupils under too much pressure. However, when approaching the examination, pupils should practise regularly and conscientiously. |
