1. © ABRSM January 2009 Inspiring Achievement Grades 1-5 Practical Exams A presentation written by Tim Arnold Brenda Dykes, ABRSM Examiner

2. © ABRSM January 2009 Introduction from Tim Arnold

3. © ABRSM January 2009 Flute Grade 7: Piece 2

4. © ABRSM January 2009 What examiners are looking for in performances of pieces Grades 1 - 5 Unconsciously uncontrolled Consciously uncontrolled Consciously controlled Unconsciously controlled

5. © ABRSM January 2009 A hierarchy of musical qualities Distinction 27 – 30 marks Technical fluency Confident sense of performance. Confidence sense of tonal control Sensitivity to musical detail and mood. Musically convincing tempo Merit 24 – 26 marks Attention to dynamics and phrasing Evidence to tonal awareness and control. A suitable, sustained tempo Sense of the character of the piece. Good sense of rhythm Pass 20 – 23 marks General security of notes and rhythm Suitable tempo. A reasonable sense of continuity Evidence of careful preparation Prompt recovery from any slips

6. © ABRSM January 2009 Trumpet Grade 5: Piece 2

7. © ABRSM January 2009 Pass – Secure control Merit – Good control Distinction – Excellent control Key aspects of musical control which contribute to a successful performance Technique Rhythm Tone Detail Communication

8. © ABRSM January 2009 Technical control - fingers, hands, bow, voice Distinction - refined control Merit - good control Pass - adequate control

9. © ABRSM January 2009 Piano Grade 1: Piece 3

10. © ABRSM January 2009 Rhythmic control - pulse, time, metre, accent Distinction - refined control Merit - good control Pass - adequate control

11. © ABRSM January 2009 Flute Grade 3: Piece 2

12. © ABRSM January 2009 Tonal control - production, quality, projection Distinction - refined control Merit - good control Pass - adequate control

13. © ABRSM January 2009 Violin Grade 6: Piece 2

14. © ABRSM January 2009 Control of musical detail - awareness, realization, clarity Distinction - refined control Merit - good control Pass - adequate control

15. © ABRSM January 2009 Piano Grade 5: Piece 1

16. © ABRSM January 2009 Control of communication - sense of musical performance Distinction - refined control Merit - good control Pass - adequate control

17. © ABRSM January 2009 Piano Grade 5: Piece 2

18. © ABRSM January 2009 Any questions?

19. © ABRSM January 2009 Thank you