Elements and Performance Criteria
- Use technical control in performing music
- Use control of the physical characteristics of chosen instrument to perform music skilfully
- Use technical control to exploit the expressive qualities of chosen instrument in performance
- Control sound production to achieve consistency and reliability in performance across a wide range of repertoire in selected musical style
- Maintain and care for the instrument
- Use appropriate methods to care for, move, use and store the instrument securely
- Set up and/or warm up the instrument in preparation for practice or performance
- Use instrumental accessories, fittings, maintenance and cleaning products to care for the instrument and enhance performance outcomes
- Tune the instrument appropriately to the required standard and tuning conventions
- Use practice time to develop techniques and expand repertoire
- In consultation with appropriate personnel, plan practice sessions, strategies and exercises aimed at extending techniques and expanding repertoire
- Use repertoire or specific technical exercises to address specific needs
- Apply developing experience of the physical relationship with the instrument to achieve individual style and extend musical expression
- Listen to own work critically to produce accurate intonation and tone colour across a wide dynamic range
- Use good posture and appropriate finger, hand and/or body positions to perfect technical facility and ensure healthy performance habits
- Monitor progress in skill development against personal goals and adjust practice sessions accordingly
- Apply refined skills to perform a wider range of pieces
- Interpret music appropriately to play a range of repertoire for solo and ensemble performance using appropriate rhythm, expression and tuning
- Use a variety of instrumental techniques to perform a range of repertoire appropriate to the selected area of music specialisation
- Control intonation, rhythm, tempo, expression, phrasing and nuance appropriate to the repertoire and musical style
- Evaluate own performances and note areas for future improvement
- Seek feedback on own performance from appropriate personnel and incorporate their ideas and suggestions into strategies for continuously improving own skills and knowledge