BTEC First in Performing Arts

1. BTEC First in Performing Arts Unit E28: Solo Performance

2. To gain a pass you must: P1 identify the repertoire available for their instrument, providing examples P2 identify music for their concert programme that is appropriate to their performance standard P3 identify examples of musical practise techniques that are used to improve performance on their instrument P4 as a soloist, perform two contrasting pieces of music accurately, showing some sense of musical style.

3. To gain a merit you must also: M1 using a number of different sources, describe the repertoire available for their instrument, providing examples M2 describe the choices of music for their concert programme that is appropriate to their performance standard M3 demonstrate the use of musical practise techniques that they have used to improve their performance on their instrument M4 as a soloist, perform two contrasting pieces of music accurately, showing a sense of style and musical communication with the audience.

4. To gain a distinction you must also: D1 using a number of sources, explain a wide range of repertoire available for their instrument, referring to specific examples D2 justify appropriate choices of music for your concert programme that is appropriate to your performance standard D3 explain how they have used a range of musical practise techniques to improve performance on their instrument D4 as a soloist, perform two contrasting pieces of music accurately, showing expression, a sense of individual style and demonstrating musical communication with the audience.

5. Assignment: E28.1 Instrument and Music Research This task will be completed though one piece of writing which you could write in point form. • Select an exam syllabus for you instrument (ideally grade 3 or above). List the pieces you could play for this exam and give an explanation of why you chose that grade, justify your reasons. • Choose the 3 pieces (one from each list) for your exam. Justify your choice. • Describe the different styles of music that you will have play for these 3 pieces. Write a small amount about the composer and his history. • Find another piece by the composers you have chosen (you will not have to learn to play this) The pieces that you choose in this assignment will be worked on in assignment E28.2 Practice Diary and performed in assignment E28.3 Solo performance Exam

6. Assignment: E28.2 Practice Diary Complete the practise diary you have been given over a period of 5 – 10 lessons as you prepare for your performance exam. • Clearly explain the strategies you have used to help you improve. • Evaluate your progress You should consider the following terms: ‘warm-up’ techniques; scales; arpeggios; other technical exercises to improve tone and technique relevant to the instrument or voice; formulate effective practise routines; pieces for performance thoroughly rehearsed and learnt Physical preparation: eg relaxation and/or breathing exercises as appropriate; concentration techniques; exercises to control nerves; ‘dry-run’ performances to practise performing at the venue and to an audience Other preparations: instrument (where applicable) is in working order, eg new strings, correct reeds/mouth pieces, correct beaters, voice is warmed up; accompanist is organised and rehearsal with accompanist if one is being used

7. Assignment: E28.3 Solo Performance Exam Perform 2 contrasting pieces to a live audience

8. Learning Outcomes You should: • Know the repertoire for your instrument • Be able to choose appropriate pieces of music for performance • Know how to prepare for a solo performance • Be able to perform music to an audience.