Unit G351: Performing Music 1

Assessment 

Candidates are required to perform a practical examination, which is externally assessed by a 
visiting examiner. 

Candidates are required to: 

• perform as soloist on any instrument or voice (Section A); 
• discuss their performance in Section A with the examiner (Section B); and 
• present one option from four as further evidence of performing skills (Section C).

The examiner will record both sets of performances and the discussion. Centres are not permitted 
to record (or video) any part of the examination. An audience may be present for Sections A and 
C (except for option 4) at the candidate's discretion. 

Centres are responsible for providing a competent accompanist for a soloist when needed. 
Scores in forms appropriate to the styles of the music performed, or a clear indication of the basis 
of improvised performances (eg lead sheets, chord patterns), must be provided for reference by 
the examiner. The copies will be retained with the recording. 

Section A: Recital 60 marks 

Candidates are required to perform solo (on any instrument or voice) a programme of pieces which demonstrate representative features of the repertoire for the instrument or voice presented. If it is appropriate to the repertoire being performed, candidates may improvise. 
The programme should last no longer than eight minutes. 

Candidates should be able to demonstrate: 

• secure knowledge of the music and fluency in its performance; 
• technical control across a range of techniques; 
• understanding of relevant performance markings and/or performing conventions; and 
• aural and stylistic understanding. 

Section B: Discussion (Viva voce) 20 marks 

In a discussion lasting about five minutes, candidates will be required to answer questions posed 
by the examiner. Candidates may, if they wish, support their oral responses with musical 
illustrations using their instrument (or voice). 

Candidates should be able to explain decisions taken in the preparation and performance of the 
music presented, in relation to: 

• expressive aspects such as tempo, phrasing, dynamics and colour; and 
• technical tools such as bowing, breathing, fingering, pedalling, amplification 
and to appraise how effectively their intentions have been realised in performance.

Section C: Further performing 40 marks 

Candidates are required to offer one of the following: 

1. Performing on a second instrument (or voice) which is clearly differentiated in technique and/or 
repertoire from that presented in Section A. The programme should last no longer than four 
minutes. 

Candidates should be able to demonstrate: 

• secure knowledge of the music and fluency in its performance; 
• technical control across a range of techniques; 
• understanding of relevant performance markings and/or performing conventions; and 
• aural and stylistic understanding. 

2. Performing: 

• in an ensemble; or 
• in a duet; or 
• as an accompanist. 

The programme should last no longer than four minutes. 

The candidate's part in any ensemble, duet or accompaniment should be clearly distinguishable 
from that of any other performers and sufficiently substantial to be individually assessable. If the 
instrument offered is the same as that assessed in Section A, the programme must demonstrate 
clear evidence of an extension of performing skills. (The combination in which the candidate 
performs should not duplicate the one presented in Section A, eg duo performance with piano in 
both sections is not normally appropriate.) 

Candidates should be able to demonstrate: 

• secure knowledge of the music and fluency in its performance; 
• technical control across a range of techniques; 
• understanding of relevant performance markings and/or performing conventions; and 

• aural and stylistic understanding.