PIANO PREPARATION TIPS for Exams, Eisteddfod or Competitions

ASSESSMENT SECTIONS

Depending on your SYLLABUS, the exam / competition / Eisteddfod will be approached in 3 SECTIONS.

1.      Songs (3 to 4)

2.      Technical Exercises (as in your syllabus book)

3.      Additional Aural, Reading or Improv. Exercises (not for S15)

TAKE NOTE: Even if you’re only being assessed on songs alone, it is advised that you do your TECHNICAL

EXERCISES DAILY in order to improve your dexterity, strength and focus. It will only benefit your playing!

NOTE: ONE OR TWO ELEMENTS from each section must be rehearsed daily with 4 to 5 repetitions (or isolate with more reps for weaker parts) if the exercise / song is:

·       Out of tempo (consistent speed)

·       Or Inaccurate (note values and hand dexterity)

MOCK / TRIAL ASSESSMENT

In order to prepare well and to find your feet both practically and emotionally, your teacher will book a mock/trial exam with an experienced but unknown teacher.

Take note of the date scheduled for this by your teacher and heed to your teacher’s instructions from week to week so that you are optimally prepared for your event.

This should be conducted 2 to 4 weeks before the final event and might need an earlier date depending on your grade / volume of work.

The assessment comments from the mock exam – either in writing or in verbal communication is an invaluable opportunity for you to tweak and rehearse your weaker and established areas before the final exam.

FINAL ASSESSMENT

The Final Exam will be conducted preferably in-person or online depending on your age and experience at a time and date advised by your teacher.

The date for the exam is not negotiable unless circumstances are unavoidable.

Parents, make sure you have scheduled the mock exam and the final exam slot in your calendar. Your child will needs your presence and involvement to accompany them in their journey for support and guidance, especially the younger they are. As much as music is about skills learning, it is also an opportunity to connect relationally and guide them in their character and life focus.

The examiner will require the minimal songs and exercises required for the evaluation. Aim high within the marking scope so that you do not underestimate the outcome.

Take note of the particular elements of marking scope shared by your teacher or in the syllabus information booklet so you know what to focus on for each song or exercise. E.g. some songs have more dynamics or articulation to consider so be ready to remember and apply these adequately BEFORE starting to play your song or exercise.