Syllabus guideKEYSBAND BASEDDebut to Grade 5KEYS DEBUT-5D-5Band Based KeyboardsWelcomeQuick OverviewGeneral Technical SpecifcationsEntry LevelLevel 1Level 2Grade Specifcations DebutGrade 1Grade 2Grade 3Grade 4Grade 5Exam RegulationsAssessment Requirements34555610162228344042Syllabus Guide20062012www.rockschool.co.uk2Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012AcknowledgementsWe would like to thank the following people who have made this syllabus series possible. Syllabus Director:Jeremy WardBook Editors:Jeremy Ward, Alastair Gavin, Simon Pitt, Simon TroupMusic Engraving:Simon Troup: www.digitalmusicart.comAudio Production:Alastair Gavin & Matt GendreuxDesign:www.fuelcreativity.comPhotography:Max Hamilton A very special thank you is due to Roland UK who loaned us the Juno-G keyboard featured on the front cover of the grade books.Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 200920123Welcome To Te Band Based Keyboards SyllabusWelcometoRockschoolsnewBandBasedKeyboard(BBK)SyllabusGuide.Thisisthefirst accredited keyboard syllabus that puts the player at the heart of a band. Thesyllabusprovideskeyboardarrangementsfortheperformancepiecesfoundin RockschoolshighlyacclaimedGuitar,BassandDrumsyllabuses.AtGrades3and5,BBK players perform from the same repertoire.For the other grades we have used pieces found in the equivalent grades for these three instruments. Foreachgradeyouwillneedakeyboardwithatleast61keys,withthefollowingpatches: acoustic piano, electric piano, organ, strings and synth.At Grades 4 and 5 you will also need a sustain pedal. Eachgradebookcontainseverythingacandidateneedsinordertoattemptagrade.For thefirsttimewehaveincludeaFactFileasawayofintroducingeachperformancepiece containing useful information on the style of music and players/bands featured in each piece. This is followed by a detailed Walkthrough which highlights specific areas of technique and/or phrasing that need care and attention when practising.These sections include highlighted bars.Back to Contents Page4Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012BBK Summary SheetDEBUTGRADE 1GRADE 2GRADE 3GRADE 4GRADE 5PERFORMANCE PIECES Major/MinorMajor/MinorMajor/MinorMajor/MinorMajor/MinorMajor/MinorTECHNICAL EXERCISESScalesq=70q=80q=100q=60q=100q=100Chordsq=70q=60q=60q=60q=60q=607thsq=60q=100q=135Rifq=90q=90q=90q=120q=135q=90SIGHT READINGRH MinorRH MajorLH MinorTwo hands MajorTwo hands MinorTwo hands MajorIMPROVISATION & INTERPRETATIONN/AMinorMajorMinorMajorMinorEAR TESTSEar Test 1RhythmicRH MinorLH MajorRH MinorRH MajorLH BluesEar Test 2RH MajorRH MajorRH MinorRH MajorRH MajorRH BluesBack to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 200920125General Technical SpecifcationsEntry LevelDebut BBK is part of the Entry Level.Entry Level is for players who are beginners and who are looking to establish a simple and reliable technical facility.This will be shown through simple hand co-ordination in the delivery of very simple rhythms.Focus will be on maintaining solid pulse and understanding of note values and pitches.Level 1 (Grades 13) Grades1,2and3formLevel1.ThisLevelisforplayerswhoarejuststartingoutandwho arelookingtoestablishabasic,solidtechnicalfacilityaswellastheemergenceofstylistic awareness.Thiswillbeshownthroughsecurehandco-ordinationinthedeliveryofsimple rhythmswhichwillincludesimplesyncopation.Therewillbesomevaryingofarticulation andbasicabilitytochangeinstrumentalpatchesandtobeabletoachievethebasicplaying techniques associated with them.Level 2 (Grades 4 & 5) Grades 4 and 5 form Level 2.This Level is for players who have a secure basic technique and thebeginningsofstylisticawareness.Candidatesarelookingtobecomefullycompetentin themainareasofkeyboardtechniqueandwillcontinuetodevelopstylisticawarenessby consolidatingspecificinstrumentaltechniquesandplayingstyles.Thisisshownthrough piecesofappropriatelengthandstructure.Candidateswillshowmoreadvancedhand co-ordinationandindependenceofhandmovement.Rhythmswillbefurtherdeveloped toincludecross-rhythmsandrhythmicworkbetweenthehands.Thereisawideruseof articulationsandanexpectationoffluencybetweenthem.Thereisarequirementtochange patches more regularly with less preparation time.Back to Contents PageDebut Overview6DPerformance Pieces Bean ScentPatch: Electric Piano BlockbusterPatch: Organ Detroit SpinnaPatch: Synth Nick of TimePatch: Organ Paisley On My MindPatch: Piano TechnotronicaPatch: Strings Technical ExercisesGroup A: Scalesq =70 Right hand only Pentatonic scales: A minor and E minor Major Scales:C major Group B: Chordsq =70 Right or Left hand as directed bythe examiner Chords i & iv and i & vIn A minor Chords I & IV and I & V In C major Group C: Riff q =90Played to a backing track Onebarrighthandonlyriffpattern repeatedwiththreedifferentrootnotes over four bars.Sight Reading One hand (treble clef) Four bars Piano patch A minor pentatonic 90 seconds preparation time Ear Tests These tests are played on a CDTest1:twobarrhythmrecall,middleC, treble clef, q =70 piano patchTest2:twobarmelodicrecall,Cmajor scale q =70 piano patchGeneral Musicianship Questions Fivequestionswillbeaskedbythe examiner, based on a piece played by the candidate.Twokindsofquestionswill be asked:Simple music theory Knowledge of the instrument Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 200920127DebutThe technical specifications for the grade exam at Debut are shown below.Performance Pieces (60 Marks) Candidates are required to play three pieces printed in the grade book.Each piece is worth 20 marks. Pieceswillbenolongerthanoneminutetoenabletheplayertosustainconcentrationand fluency.They will use simple note values and rhythms.Hand co-ordination will be basic and phrases will generally fall within five finger shapes occasionally requiring some finger changes. Articulationswillbelimitedtounderstandingvaluesandpieceswillbewrittenforone instrument patch only.Any simple instrumental techniques will written out in the music.Technical Exercises (15 Marks) Candidates will be required to play a selection of exercises from three printed groups (Groups A, B & C) as directed by the examiner.One of these is a four bar riff which is performed to a backingtrackonthegradeCDsuppliedwitheachbook.Candidateswillnotberequiredto memorise the exercises, and may use the book in the exam, but the examiner will be looking for the following:a prompt and accurate response, fluency and consistency of pulse. GroupsAandBaretobeplayedatq =70.Allscalesandchordsshouldbeplayedusingthe piano patch. Group A: Scales all scales are to be prepared right hand only A minor pentatonic scale E minor pentatonic scale C major scale Group B: Chords all chord sequences should be played with the right or left hand as directed. Chords i and iv in A minor Chords i and v in A minor Chords I and IV in C major Chords I and V in C major Group C: Riffin the exam you will be asked to played a riff to the backing track of the CD. The riff pattern shown in bar 1 should be played in the following bards using the nearest right Back to Contents Page8Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Debuthandinversionsforthestatedchords,referringtotheGroupBchordswherenecessary.The root notes of the chords to be played are shown in the music.Sight Reading (10 Marks) Candidates are asked to perform a piece of music using the piano patch on the keyboard.The sight reading test is four bars long, in the right hand only and will use the A minor pentatonic scale.Theexaminerwillallowthecandidate90secondstopreparationtimeandwillset thetempoforthecandidatewithametronome.Thecandidatemaychoosenottohavethe metronomerunningduringtheperformanceofthetest.Candidateshavetheoptionto practise and play the sight reading test using a metronome.Ear Tests (10 Marks) There are two tests in this section which are played to the candidate by the examiner on CD. The test will be played back using the piano patch on the keyboard. Test1:RhythmRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackontheirkeyboardatwobar rhythmplayedonmiddleC.Candidatesheartherhythmplayedtwicewithadrumbacking followed by a short break for the candidate to practice.The candidate then plays the rhythm back with a drum backing.This test is continuous. Test2:MelodicRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackasimpletwobarmelody composed from the first three notes of the C major scale.Candidates are given the tonic note and the starting note and hear the test twice with a drum backing.After a short break, the test recommences and the candidate replays the melody with the drum backing.Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 200920129DebutGeneral Musicianship Questions (5 Marks)Theexaminerasksthecandidatefivequestionsattheendoftheexam,basedonapiece thatthecandidatehasplayed.SomeofthetheoreticaltopicscanbefoundintheTechnical Exercises.The topics fall into two categories: Music Theory: the questions will cover (i) note pitches; (ii) note values and (iii) time signatures Knowledge of the keyboard: this will cover (i) keys; (ii) on/off switch; (iii) volume control; (iv) patches and (v) how black notes are grouped. In the Performance Certificate exam, candidates are required to play five of the pieces (worth 20 marks each) printed in the grade book.Back to Contents PageGrade 1 Overview101Performance Pieces Caf NegativePatch: Organ Crescent City VoodooPatch: Piano Gone But Not ForgottenPatch: Synth Jazz TripPatch: Electric Piano Just Keep WalkingPatch: Organ Ruff And SmoothPatch: Strings Technical Exercises Group A: Scales q =80 To be prepared both handsseparately Pentatonic scales:A minor & E minor Major Scales:C major & G major Group B: Chords q =60 Right or Left hand as directed bythe examiner Chords i & iv and i & v In A minor & E minor Chords I & IV and I & V In C major& G major Group C: Riff q =90 Played to a CD backing track Onebartwohandsriffpatternrepeated with two different root notes per bar over four bars.Sight Reading q =70One hand (treble clef) Four barsPiano or electric piano patchC major or G major 90 seconds preparation time Improvisation & Interpretationq =70 Four bars Organ or electric piano patch A minor pentatonic or E minorpentatonicPlayed to a CD backing track 30 seconds preparation time Back to Contents Page11Ear TestsThese tests are played on a CD Test 1:q =90 Two bar melodic recall A minor pentatonic or E minorpentatonic scale Piano patch Test 2: q =90 Two bar chord & rhythm recall C major or G majorChords I, IV & V Piano patch General Musicianship Questions Fivequestionswillbeaskedbythe examiner, based on a piece played by the candidate.Twokindsofquestionswill be asked: Simple music theory Knowledge of the instrument Back to Contents Page12Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 1The technical specifications for the grade exam at Grade 1 are shown below.Performance Pieces (60 Marks) Candidates are required to play three pieces printed in the grade book.Each piece is worth 20 marks. Pieceswillbenolongerthanoneandahalfminutestoenabletheplayertomaintain concentrationandfluency.Theywillusesimplenotevaluesandrhythmsaswellasvery simplesyncopations.Handco-ordinationwillbebasicandphraseswillgenerallyfallwithin simplehandshapesoccasionallyrequiringsmallmovements.Articulationwillbelimitedto understandingvaluesandpieceswillbewrittenforoneinstrumentpatchonly.Anysimple instrumental techniques are written out in the music.Technical Exercises (15 Marks) Candidates will be required to play a selection of exercises from three printed groups (Groups A, B & C) as directed by the examiner.One of these is a four bar riff which is performed to a backingtrackonthegradeCDsuppliedwitheachbook.Candidateswillnotberequiredto memorise the exercises, and may use the book in the exam, but the examiner will be looking for the following:a prompt and accurate response, fluency and consistency of pulse. GroupsAistobeplayedatq =80.GroupBistobeplayedatq =60.Allscalesandchords should be played using the piano patch. Group A: Scales all scales are to be prepared both hands separately A minor pentatonic scale E minor pentatonic scale C major scale G major scale Group B: Chords all chord sequences should be played with the right or left hand as directed by the examiner. Chords i and iv in A minor and E minor Chords i and v in A minor and E minor Chords I and IV in C major and G major Chords I and V in C major and G major Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201213Grade 1GroupC:RiffintheexamyouwillbeaskedtoplayedarifftothebackingtrackoftheCD. The riff pattern shown in bar 1 should be played in the following bars using the nearest right handinversionsforthestatedchords,referringtotheGroupBchordswherenecessary.The root notes of the chords to be played are shown in the music.Either Sight Reading (10 Marks) Candidates are asked to perform a four bar piece of music using either the piano or the electric pianopatchonthekeyboard.Thesightreadingtestisfourbarslong,intherighthandonly andisinthekeyofeitherCmajororGmajor.Theexaminerwillallowthecandidate90 seconds to preparation time and will set the tempo for the candidate with a metronome.The candidate may choose not to have the metronome running during the performance of the test. Candidates have the option to practise and play the sight reading test using a metronome.Or Improvisation & Interpretation (10 Marks) Candidates will be asked to play an improvised line of four bars to a backing track played on CD.Candidateswilluseeithertheelectricpianoororganpatchontheirkeyboardandthe improvisationwillbeinthekeyofeitherAminorpentatonicandEminorpentatonic,using the chords i, iv and v.Candidates are allowed 30 seconds to prepare and then practise during thefirstplayingofthetestonCD.Candidatesperformtheimprovisationonthesecond playing.The test in continuous, with a one bar count in before each playing. Ear Tests (10 Marks) There are two tests in this section which are played to the candidate by the examiner on CD. The test will be played back using the piano patch on the keyboard. Test1:MelodicRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackasimpletwobarmelody composedfromeithertheAminororEminorpentatonicscales.Candidatesaregiventhe tonicnoteandthestartingnoteandhearthetesttwicewithadrumbacking.Afterashort break, the test recommences and the candidate replays the melody with the drum backing Test2:ChordandRhythmRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackontheirkeyboarda giventwobarrhythmicchordprogression.Candidatesheartherhythmicchordprogression Back to Contents Page14Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 1madeupofchordsI,IVandVinthekeyofeitherCmajororGmajorplayedtwicewitha drumbackingfollowedbyashortbreakforthecandidatetopractise.Thecandidatethen plays the rhythmic chord sequence back with a drum backing.This test is continuous.General Musicianship Questions (5 Marks) Theexaminerasksthecandidatefivequestionsattheendoftheexam,basedonapiece thatthecandidatehasplayed.SomeofthetheoreticaltopicscanbefoundintheTechnical Exercises.The topics fall into two categories: Music Theory: the questions will cover (i) note pitches; (ii) note values; (iii) rests, (iv) time signatures, (v) knowledge of major and minor chord types. Knowledge of the keyboard: this will cover a demonstration by the candidate of (i) an octave from any black or white key; (ii) where the patches are located and how they are set.In addition, candidates will need to show knowledge of: (i) keys; (ii) on/off switch; (iii) volume control; and (iv) patches. InthePerformanceCertificateexam,candidatesarerequiredtoplayfivepieces(worth20 markseach).UptotwoofthesepiecescanbeaFreeChoicePiece.Criteriaforcandidates choosing performance repertoire to play in the Performance Certificate exam can be found on the Rockschool website: www.rockschool.co.ukBack to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201215Back to Contents PageGrade 2 Overview162Performance Pieces Blue PhonesPatch: Electric Piano Get RealPatch: Synth Glitter BallzPatch: Organ Like it IsPatch: Piano M & Cs TunePatch: Strings Soul FirePatch: Organ Technical Exercises Group A: Scales q =100 To be prepared both handsseparately Pentatonic scales: A minor, D minor & E minor Natural minor scales: A minor, D minor & E minor Major Scales: C major, D major, F major & Gmajor Group B: Chords q =60 Right or Left hand as directed bythe examiner Chords i & iv and i & v In A minor, D minor or E minor Chords I & IV and I & V In C major, D major, F major or G major Group C: Riff q =90 Played to a backing track Two bar two hands riff pattern repeated.Sight Reading q =70One hand (bass clef) Four bars Piano or electric piano patch A minor pentatonic or E minorpentatonic90 seconds preparation time Improvisation & Interpretation q =80Four bars Piano or organ patch C major or G major Played to a CD backing track 30 seconds preparation time Back to Contents Page17 Ear TestsThese tests are played on a CDTest 1:q =80Two bar melodic recall Bass clef G major or F major scales Piano patch Test 2:q =80Two bar chord & rhythm recall A minor or D minor Chords I, iv & v Treble clef Piano patch General Musicianship Questions Fivequestionswillbeaskedbythe examiner, based on a piece played by the candidate.Twokindsofquestionswill be asked: Simple music theory Knowledge of the instrument Back to Contents Page18Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 2The technical specifications for the grade exam at Grade 2 are shown below.Performance Pieces (60 Marks) Candidates are required to play three pieces printed in the grade book.Each piece is worth 20 marks. Pieceswillbenolongerthanoneminute45secondstoenabletheplayertosustain concentrationandfluency.Rhythmswillincludesyncopations,somesimpleswingrhythm andgroupingsofvaluesmayincludesubdivisionsofthebeat.Handco-ordinationwill showincreasedabilitytoplaydifferentnotevaluesbetweenthehandsandpassageswill requirewiderhandmovementinbothhands.Articulationswillincludesimplevariation andbeclearlynotatedandpieceswillbewrittenforoneinstrumentpatchonly.Anysimple instrumental techniques are written out in the music. Technical Exercises (15 Marks) Candidates will be required to play a selection of exercises from three printed groups (Groups A, B & C) as directed by the examiner.One of these is a four bar riff which is performed to a backingtrackonthegradeCDsuppliedwitheachbook.Candidateswillnotberequiredto memorise the exercises, and may use the book in the exam, but the examiner will be looking for the following:a prompt and accurate response, fluency and consistency of pulse. GroupsAistobeplayedatq =100.GroupBistobeplayedatq =60.Allscalesandchords should be played using the piano patch. Group A: Scales all scales are to be prepared both hands separately Minor pentatonic scale in A minor, D minor and E minor Natural minor scale in A minor, D minor and E minor Major scale in C major, G major, D major and F major Group B: Chords all chord sequences should be played with the right or left hand as directed. Chords i & iv and i & v in A minor, D minor and E minor Chords I & IV and I & V in C major, G major, D major and F major GroupC:Riffintheexamyouwillbeaskedtoplayaneightbarrifftothebackingtrackof the CD.The riff pattern shown in bars 1 & 2 should be played in the following bars using the nearest right hand inversions for the stated chord base.The chord relationship of I IV should Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201219Grade 2be followed throughout, referring to the patterns in Group B where necessary.The root notes of the chords to be played are shown in the music. Either Sight Reading (10 Marks) Candidates are asked to perform a four bar piece of music using either the piano or the electric piano patch on the keyboard.The sight reading test is four bars long, in the left hand only and useseithertheAminorpentatonicscaleortheEminorpentatonicscale.Theexaminerwill allowthecandidate90secondstopreparationtimeandwillsetthetempoforthecandidate with a metronome.The candidate may choose not to have the metronome running during the performance of the test. Or Improvisation & Interpretation (10 Marks) Candidateswillbeaskedtoplayanimprovisedlineoffourbarstoabackingtrackplayed onCD.Candidateswilluseeithertheelectricpianoororganpatchontheirkeyboardand the improvisation will be in the key of either C major or G major, using the chords I, IV and V.Candidatesareallowed30secondstoprepareandthenprepareduringthefirstplaying of the test on CD.Candidates perform the improvisation on the second playing.The test in continuous, with a one note count in before each playing. Ear Tests (10 Marks) There are two tests in this section which are played to the candidate by the examiner on CD. The test will be played back using the piano patch on the keyboard. Test1:MelodicRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackasimpletwobarbassline composed from either the G major or F major scales.Candidates are given the tonic note and thestartingnoteandhearthetesttwicewithadrumbacking.Afterashortbreak,thetest recommences and the candidate replays the melody with the drum backing Test2:ChordandRhythmRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackontheirkeyboarda giventwobarrhythmicchordprogression.Candidatesheartherhythmicchordprogression madeupofchordsi,ivandvinthekeyofeitherAminororDminorplayedtwicewitha drumbackingfollowedbyashortbreakforthecandidatetopractise.Thecandidatethen plays the rhythmic chord sequence back with a drum backing.This test is continuous. Back to Contents Page20Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 2General Musicianship Questions (5 Marks) Theexaminerasksthecandidatefivequestionsattheendoftheexam,basedonapiece thatthecandidatehasplayed.SomeofthetheoreticaltopicscanbefoundintheTechnical Exercises.The topics fall into two categories: Music Theory: the questions will cover (i) note pitches; (ii) note values; (iii) rests, (iv) time signatures, (v) dynamics (piano to fortissimo), (vi) repeat markings, (vii) accents and staccato, (viii) key signatures, (ix) knowledge of major and minor chord types. Knowledge of the keyboard: this will cover a demonstration by the candidate of (i) where the patches are located and how they are set; (ii) how to make a sharp or flat.In addition, candidates will need to show knowledge of: (i) keys; (ii) on/off switch; (iii) volume control; (iv) patches, (vi) knowledge of major keyboard makes. InthePerformanceCertificateexam,candidatesarerequiredtoplayfivepieces(worth20 markseach).UptotwoofthesepiecescanbeaFreeChoicePiece.Criteriaforcandidates choosing performance repertoire to play in the Performance Certificate exam can be found on the Rockschool website: www.rockschool.co.ukBack to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201221Back to Contents PageGrade 3 Overview223Performance Pieces Been TherePatch: Strings & Piano DownloadPatch: Organ Hazi TaxiPatch: Piano & Organ Little ShadyPatch: Strings & Piano PipelinePatch: Piano TrenchtownPatch: Organ Technical Exercises Group A: Scalesq =60 (in 8th notes) To be prepared both handsseparately and together Pentatonic scales:C minor, G minor & F minor Natural minor scales:C minor, G minor & F minor Major scales:D major, A major & B b major Group B: Chordsq =60 Right or Left hand as directed bythe examiner Chords i, iv & vIn C minor, G minor or F minor Chords I, IV & VIn D major, A major or B b major Group C: Dominant seventhsq =60C 7, G7, D7, A7 and Bb7Group D: Riffq =120Played to a backing track Twobartwohandsriffpatternrepeated over twelve bars.Sight Reading q =80Two hands Eight bars Piano or electric piano patch D major or A major 90 seconds preparation time Improvisation & Interpretation q =80Eight bars Strings or piano patch C minor pentatonic or G minorpentatonicPlayed to a CD backing track 30 seconds preparation time Back to Contents Page23 Ear TestsThese tests are played on a CDTest 1:q =90Two bar melodic recall Treble clef C minor pentatonic or G minorpentatonic scalesPiano patch Test 2:q =90Four bar chord & rhythm recall D major or A major Chords I, IV & V7 Treble clef Piano patch General Musicianship Questions Fivequestionswillbeaskedbythe examiner, based on a piece played by the candidate.Twokindsofquestionswill be asked: Simple music theory Knowledge of the instrument Back to Contents Page24Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 3The technical specifications for the grade exam at Grade 3 are shown below.Performance Pieces (60 Marks) Candidates are required to play three pieces printed in the grade book.Each piece is worth 20 marks. Pieceswillbenolongerthantwoandahalfminutestoenabletheplayertodisplayan increasingabilitytosustainconcentration,fluencyandthebeginningsofstylisticawareness throughsomesolopassagework.Rhythmswillbemoredeveloped,employingsyncopation between the hands, swing rhythm in increasing notation complexity and a wider range of note values.Playerswillbeexpectedtoshowthebeginningsofstylisticawarenessthroughuseof appropriatetechniquesandarticulationassociatedwithpatchchanges.Wherepatchchanges are required, these will be limited to two patches per piece. Technical Exercises (15 Marks) Candidates will be required to play a selection of exercises from four printed groups (Groups A, B, C & D) as directed by the examiner.One of these is an eight bar riff which is performed to a backing track on the grade CD supplied with each book.Candidates will not be required to memorise the exercises, and may use the book in the exam, but the examiner will be looking for the following:a prompt and accurate response, fluency and consistency of pulse. Groups AC are to be played at q =60.All exercises should be played using the piano patch. Group A: Scales all scales are to be prepared hands separately and togetherMinor pentatonic scale in C minor, G minor and F minor Natural minor scale in C minor, G minor and F minor Major scale in D major, A major, and B b major Group B: Chords all chord sequences should be played with the right or left hand as directed. Chords i, iv & v in C minor, G minor and F minor Chords I, IV & V in D major, A major, and B b majorGroup C: Dominant 7ths this exercise should be prepared on C7, G7, D7, A7 and Bb7 Group C: Riff in the exam you will be asked to play an twelve bar riff to the backing track of the CD.The riff pattern shown in bars 1 & 2 should be played in the same shape in bars 312. Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201225Grade 3The root notes of the chords to be played are shown in the music. Where only one bar is shown play only the first half of the riff. Either Sight Reading (10 Marks) Candidatesareaskedtoperformaneightbarpieceofmusicusingeitherthepianoorthe electric piano patch on the keyboard.The sight reading test is four bars long, in the right hand only and is in the key of either D major or A major.The examiner will allow the candidate 90 seconds to preparation time and will set the tempo for the candidate with a metronome.The candidate may choose not to have the metronome running during the performance of the test. Or Improvisation & Interpretation (10 Marks) Candidateswillbeaskedtoplayanimprovisationofeightbarstoabackingtrackplayed onCD.Candidateswillusethepatchindicatedonthemusicontheirkeyboardandthe improvisation will be in the key of either C minor pentatonic or G minor pentatonic, using the chords I, IV and V. You will be asked to play comping chords using either the string or piano patch. Candidates are allowed 30 seconds to prepare and then prepare during the first playing of the test on CD.Candidates perform the improvisation on the second playing.The test in continuous, with a one note count in before each playing. Ear Tests (10 Marks) There are two tests in this section which are played to the candidate by the examiner on CD. The test will be played back using the piano patch on the keyboard. Test 1: Melodic Recall candidates will be asked to play back a four bar melody composed from eithertheCminorpentatonicorGminorpentatonicscales.Candidatesaregiventhetonic noteandthestartingnoteandhearthetesttwicewithadrumbacking.Afterashortbreak, the test recommences and the candidate replays the melody with the drum backing.Test2:ChordandRhythmRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackontheirkeyboarda four bar rhythmic chord progression.Candidates hear the rhythmic chord progression made up of chords I, IV and V7 in the key of either D major or A major played twice with a drum backing followed by a short break for the candidate to practise.The candidate then plays the rhythmic chord sequence back with a drum backing.This test is continuous. Back to Contents Page26Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 3General Musicianship Questions (5 Marks) Theexaminerasksthecandidatefivequestionsattheendoftheexam,basedonapiece thatthecandidatehasplayed.SomeofthetheoreticaltopicscanbefoundintheTechnical Exercises.The topics fall into two categories: Music Theory: the questions will cover (i) note pitches; (ii) note values; (iii) rests, (iv) time signatures, (v) dynamics (piano to fortissimo), (vi) repeat markings, (vii) accents and staccato, (viii) key signatures, (ix) crescendo and diminuendo; (xi) D.S. and D.C. Al Coda; (xii) knowledge of major, minor and dominant 7th chord types. Knowledge of the keyboard: this will cover a demonstration by the candidate of (i) where the patches are located and how they are set; (ii) basic stylistic techniques in the pieces.In addition, candidates will need to show knowledge of: (i) keys; (ii) on/off switch; (iii) volume control; (iv) patches, (vi) knowledge of major keyboard makes. InthePerformanceCertificateexam,candidatesarerequiredtoplayfivepieces(worth20 markseach).UptotwoofthesepiecescanbeaFreeChoicePiece.Criteriaforcandidates choosing performance repertoire to play in the Performance Certificate exam can be found on the Rockschool website: www.rockschool.co.ukBack to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201227Back to Contents PageGrade 4 Overview284Performance Pieces Bling ThingPatch: Electric Piano & Pad Enough SaidPatch: Organ FoldedPatch: Piano Let it GoPatch: Synth My GoodnessPatch: Electric Piano Wouldnt it be WonderfulPatch: Electric PianoTechnical Exercises Exercises to be prepared as follows: Either: Group A: C, Db & D and Groups B and C: Eb, E & FOr: Group A: Eb, E & F and Groups B and C: C, Db & D Group A: Scalesq =100 (in 8th notes) To be prepared both handsseparately and togetherScales and modes:Blues scale Natural minor scale Major scale Mixolydian mode Group B: Chordsq =100 Right or left hand as directed by theexaminerMinor and major chord sequences Two bars each 2 chords per bar Play two consecutive progressions Group C: Minor Seventhsq =100Four bars repeated Group D: Riffq =135Played to a CD backing track Onebartwohandsriffpatternrepeated over eight bars.Sight Reading q =6090Two hands Eight bars Piano or electric piano patch D minor pentatonic or E minorpentatonic90 seconds preparation time 2 bars of improvisation at the endof the sequence.Back to Contents Page29 Improvisation & Interpretation q =7090Eight bars Organ or electric piano patch C major or F majorChords used: I, ii7, IV, V & vi 30 seconds preparation time Played to a CD backing track Two bars of rhythmic notation asa prompt at the beginning of the sequence Ear TestsThese tests are played on a CD Test 1:q =90Four bar melodic recall Treble clef D major or E major scales Piano or electric piano patch Test 2:q =90Four bar chord & rhythm recall Treble clef Chords I, ii7 IV & V D major or E major Piano or electric piano patch General Musicianship Questions Fivequestionswillbeaskedbythe examiner, based on a piece played by the candidate.Twokindsofquestionswill be asked: Simple music theory Knowledge of the instrument Back to Contents Page30Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 4The technical specifications for the grade exam at Grade 4 are shown below.Performance Pieces (60 Marks) Candidates are required to play three pieces printed in the grade book.Each piece is worth 20 marks. Pieces will be up to 2 minutes 45 seconds to allow the player to show increasing concentration andunderstandingofstructureandshape.Developmentofstylisticawarenessand performancewillbeshownthroughextendedsolopassageworkthatwillinvolvemore advancedrhythms,includingbasiccrossrhythmsandindependencebetweenthehands. Swingrhythmswillemployincreasingnotationcomplexityandawiderrangeofnotevalues. Therewillbesomeuseofextendedchordsandtheawarenessofvoicingandbalancewillbe needed.Playerswillbeexpectedtoshowthedevelopmentofstylisticawarenessthroughuse of appropriate techniques such as glissando and tremolo and be able to identify the appropriate articulationassociatedwithpatchchanges.Wherepatchchangesarerequiredthesewillbe limited to two patches per piece.Technical Exercises (15 Marks) Candidates will be required to play a selection of exercises from four printed groups (Groups A, B, C & D) as directed by the examiner.One of these is an eight bar riff which is performed to a backing track on the grade CD supplied with each book.Candidates will not be required to memorise the exercises, and may use the book in the exam, but the examiner will be looking for the following:a prompt and accurate response, fluency and consistency of pulse. Groups AC are to be played at q =100.All exercises should be played using the piano patch. Candidates can choose to play Groups AC as follows: Either: Group A: C, Db (C#), D and Groups B & C: Eb, E, FOr: Group A: Eb, E, F and Groups B & C: C, Db (C#), D Group A: Scales all scales are to be prepared hands separately and together Blues scale Natural minor scale Major scale Mixolydian mode Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201231Grade 4GroupB:Chordsallchordsequencesshouldbeplayedwithbothrightandlefthands separately. The examiner will select two consecutive chord progressions from three printed in both sections below. Minor chord sequence Major chord sequence Group C: Minor 7ths this exercise should be prepared in the keys designated above. Group D: Riff in the exam you will be asked to play an eight bar riff to the backing track on the CD.The riff pattern shown in bar 1 should be played in the same shape in bars 28.The root notes of the chords to be played are shown in the music.Either Sight Reading (10 Marks) Atthisgradethereisanelementofimprovisationintheformofatwobarending.The improvised ending should draw on patterns used in the sight reading test. Candidatesareaskedtoperformaneightbarpieceofmusicusingthepianopatchonthe keyboard.The sight reading test is eight bars long, in both hands and uses either the D minor pentatonic or E minor pentatonic scale.The examiner will allow the candidate 90 seconds to preparationtimeandwillsetthetempoforthecandidatewithametronome.Thecandidate may choose not to have the metronome running during the performance of the test. Or Improvisation & Interpretation (10 Marks) At this grade there is an element of sight reading in the form of a two bar rhythmic phrase. Candidates will be asked to play an improvised line of eight bars to a backing track played on CD.Candidateswilluseeithertheelectricpianoororganpatchontheirkeyboardandthe improvisationwillbeinthekeyofeitherCmajororFmajor,usingthechordsI,ii7,IV,V and vi. Candidates are allowed 30 seconds to prepare and then prepare during the first playing of the test on CD.Candidates perform the improvisation on the second playing.The test in continuous, with a one note count in before each playing.Back to Contents Page32Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 4Ear Tests (10 Marks) There are two tests in this section which are played to the candidate by the examiner on CD. The test will be played back using the piano or electric piano patch on the keyboard. Test1:MelodicRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackasimpletwobarmelody composed from either the D major or E major scales.Candidates are given the tonic note and thestartingnoteandhearthetesttwicewithadrumbacking.Afterashortbreak,thetest recommences and the candidate replays the melody with the drum backing Test2:ChordandRhythmRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackontheirkeyboarda four bar rhythmic chord progression.Candidates hear the rhythmic chord progression made up of chords I, ii7, IV and V7 in the key of either D major or E major played twice with a drum backing followed by a short break for the candidate to practise.The candidate then plays the rhythmic chord sequence back with a drum backing.This test is continuous.General Musicianship Questions (5 Marks) Theexaminerasksthecandidatefivequestionsattheendoftheexam,basedonapiece thatthecandidatehasplayed.SomeofthetheoreticaltopicscanbefoundintheTechnical Exercises.The topics fall into two categories: Music Theory: the questions will cover (i) note pitches; (ii) note values; (iii) rests, (iv) time signatures, (v) dynamics (piano to fortissimo), (vi) repeat markings, (vii) accents and staccato, (viii) key signatures, (ix) crescendo and diminuendo; (xi) D.S. and D.C. Al Coda; (xii) glissando, (xiii) spread chords, (xiv) knowledge of major, minor, dominant 7th and minor 7th chord types. Knowledge of the keyboard: this will cover a demonstration by the candidate of (i) patch selection and stylistic reasons for choice; (ii) basic stylistic techniques in the pieces.In addition, candidates will need to show knowledge of: (i) keys; (ii) on/off switch; (iii) volume control; (iv) patches, (vi) pitch shifter, (vii) knowledge of major keyboard makes.InthePerformanceCertificateexam,candidatesarerequiredtoplayfivepieces(worth20 markseach).UptotwoofthesepiecescanbeaFreeChoicePiece.Criteriaforcandidates choosing performance repertoire to play in the Performance Certificate exam can be found on the Rockschool website: www.rockschool.co.ukBack to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201233Back to Contents PageGrade 5 Overview345Performance PiecesAlka SetzerPatch: Piano All Funked UpPatch: Organ Bust UpPatch: Piano, Synth & Pad D & APatch: Strings SidewinderPatch: Pad & Synth X-Blues IIIPatch: Piano & Organ Technical ExercisesExercises to be prepared as follows: Either:Group A: F#, G & Ab and Groups B and C: A, Bb & BOr:Group A: A, Bb & B and Groups B and C: F#, G & Ab Group A: Scalesq =100 (in 8th notes) To be prepared both handsseparately and together Scales and modes:Blues scale Natural minor scale Major scale Mixolydian mode Group B: Chordsq =100 Both right and left hands asdirected by the examinerMajor, minor and seventh chords Two bars each 2 chords per bar Play two consecutive progressions Group C: Major Seventhsq =135Six bars Group D: Riffq =135Played to a backing track Twobar,twohandsriffpatternrepeated over eight bars.Sight Readingq =90120Two hands Eight bars Piano or electric piano patch G major or A major 90 seconds preparation time 2 bars of improvisation at the endof the sequence Back to Contents Page35 Improvisation & Interpretation q =90120Eight bars Organ or electric piano patch G minor or A minor Played to a CD backing track 30 seconds preparation time Two bars of notation as a prompt atthe beginning of the sequenceEar TestsThese tests are played on a CD Test 1:q =70Four bar melodic recall Bass clef G blues or B blues scales Piano or electric piano patch Test 2:q =70 Four bar chord & rhythm recall Treble clef Chords i7, iv & v G blues or B blues scales Piano or electric piano patch General Musicianship Questions Fivequestionswillbeaskedbythe examiner, based on a piece played by the candidate.Twokindsofquestionswill be asked: Simple music theory Knowledge of the instrument Back to Contents Page36Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 5The technical specifications for the grade exam at Grade 5 are shown below.Performance Pieces (60 Marks) Candidates are required to play three pieces printed in the grade book.Each piece is worth 20 marks. Pieceswillbeuptothreeminutesindurationandwillbemadeupofstructuresthatrequire acompetentunderstandingofshapeandphrasing.Playerswilldemonstrateagoodgrasp ofperformanceandcommunicationthroughextendedsoloandimprovisedworkand understandingofbalancewithinabandcontext.Therewillbeconsiderablerhythmic development and a greater expectation of independence between the hands and the definition ofmorethanonepartinonehand.Chordswilloftenconsistofextensionsandplayerswill demonstrateamusicalunderstandingofbalanceandvoicing.Stylisticawarenesswillbe shownthroughgoodunderstandingofinstrumentaltechniquesandtheunderstandingof playing techniques associated with them.Patch changes will often be required in a short space oftimeandtheplayerwilldemonstratetheabilitytomovebetweenthetechnicaldemands with increasing confidence and security.Technical Exercises (15 Marks) Candidates will be required to play a selection of exercises from four printed groups (Groups A, B, C & D) as directed by the examiner.One of these is a four bar riff which is performed to a backing track on the grade CD supplied with each book.Candidates will not be required to memorise the exercises, and may use the book in the exam, but the examiner will be looking for the following:a prompt and accurate response, fluency and consistency of pulse. Groups AC are to be played at q =100.All exercises should be played using the piano patch. Candidates can choose to play Groups AC as follows: Either: Group A: F#, G. Ab and Groups B & C: A, Bb, BOr: Group A: A, Bb, B and Groups B & C: F#, G, Ab Group A: Scales all scales are to be prepared hands separately and together Blues scale in Natural minor scale Major scale Mixolydian mode Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201237Grade 5GroupB:Chordsallchordsequencesshouldbeplayedwithbothrightandlefthands separately.Theexaminerwillselecttwoconsecutivechordprogressionsfromfourprintedin the grade book. Group C: Major 7ths this exercise should be prepared in the keys designated above. Group D: Riff in the exam you will be asked to play an eight bar riff to the backing track on the CD.The riff pattern shown in bars 1 & 2 should be played in the same shape in bars 37. The root notes of the chords to be played are shown in the music.Either Sight Reading (10 Marks) Atthisgradethereisanelementofimprovisationintheformofatwobarending.The improvised ending should draw on patterns used in the sight reading test. Candidates are asked to perform a twelve bar piece of music using either the piano or electric piano patch on the keyboard.The sight reading test is twelve bars long, uses both hands and is in the key of either G major or A major.The examiner will allow the candidate 90 seconds to preparationtimeandwillsetthetempoforthecandidatewithametronome.Thecandidate may choose not to have the metronome running during the performance of the test.Or Improvisation & Interpretation (10 Marks) Atthisgradethereisanelementofsightreadingintheformofatwobar,chord-basedriff. Candidates should play the chord sequence indicated in the designated rhythm. Candidateswillbeaskedtoplayanimprovisedlineoftwelvebarstoabackingtrackplayed onCD.Candidateswilluseeithertheelectricpianoororganpatchontheirkeyboardand the improvisation will be in the key of either G minor or A minor.Candidates are allowed 30 secondstoprepareandthenprepareduringthefirstplayingofthetestonCD.Candidates performtheimprovisationonthesecondplaying.Thetestincontinuous,withaonenote count in before each playing.Back to Contents Page38Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Grade 5Ear Tests (10 Marks) There are two tests in this section which are played to the candidate by the examiner on CD. The test will be played back using either the piano or electric piano patch on the keyboard.Test1:MelodicRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackafourbarbassclefmelody composed from either the G blues or B blues scales.Candidates are given the tonic note and thestartingnoteandhearthetesttwicewithadrumbacking.Afterashortbreak,thetest recommences and the candidate replays the melody with the drum backing Test2:ChordandRhythmRecallcandidateswillbeaskedtoplaybackontheirkeyboarda four bar rhythmic chord progression.Candidates hear the rhythmic chord progression made upofchordsi7,ivandvinthekeyofeitherGbluesorBbluesplayedtwicewithadrum backing followed by a short break for the candidate to practise.The candidate then plays the rhythmic chord sequence back with a drum backing.This test is continuous.General Musicianship Questions (5 Marks) Theexaminerasksthecandidatefivequestionsattheendoftheexam,basedonapiece thatthecandidatehasplayed.SomeofthetheoreticaltopicscanbefoundintheTechnical Exercises.The topics fall into two categories: Music Theory: the questions will cover (i) note pitches; (ii) note values; (iii) rests, (iv) time signatures, (v) dynamics (piano to fortissimo), (vi) repeat markings, (vii) accents and staccato, (viii) key signatures, (ix) crescendo and diminuendo; (xi) D.S. and D.C. Al Coda; (xii) knowledge of major, minor and dominant 7th chord types. Knowledge of the keyboard: this will cover a demonstration by the candidate of (i) where the patches are located and how they are set; (ii) basic stylistic techniques in the pieces.In addition, candidates will need to show knowledge of: (i) keys; (ii) on/off switch; (iii) volume control; (iv) patches, (vi) knowledge of major keyboard makes. InthePerformanceCertificateexam,candidatesarerequiredtoplayfivepieces(worth20 markseach).UptotwoofthesepiecescanbeaFreeChoicePiece.Criteriaforcandidates choosing performance repertoire to play in the Performance Certificate exam can be found on the Rockschool website: www.rockschool.co.ukBack to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201239Back to Contents Page40Exam Regulations1.Rockschool exams are open to all persons, irrespective of age and in accordance with our Equal Opportunities policy.2.Full payment and relevant documentation must reach the offices of Rockschool on or before the chosen exam periods closing date. Rockschool cannot guarantee an exam for any applications received after this date.3.Exam entries may not be transferred from one candidate to another.4.Any changes to the examination will incur a fee.5.Cancellation of an exam will result in loss of the exam fee unless as a result of illness or injury. Such cases must be substantiated by a medical certificate. In this event, the exam will be re-scheduled on receipt of half of the original exam entry fee.6.Names on certificates will be as on candidates acknowledgement letter. Replacement certificates will incur a charge of 5.7.On application, candidates may state times within an exam period when they are unavailable. However, Rockschool cannot guarantee to avoid all such dates.8.Rockschool reserves the right to defer exams until the next available exam period. After one deferral, an exam is guaranteed at an exam centre chosen by Rockschool. This may not be your local centre.9.Candidates must use only the official Rockschool sheet music for their respective exam. Photocopying of any material to facilitate page turns in the exams is allowable and the copies will be retained by the examiner. Sole use of photocopying is prohibited and may result in disqualification.10.No refunds are given.11.No teacher, or other person, must be present during the preparation of a candidates Quick Study Piece. Any assistance given to a candidate will result in disqualification from the examination.12.Only the examiner and candidate are allowed to be present in the examination room with the exception of moderators appointed by Rockschool.Back to Contents Page4113.Candidates must bring in two copies of music for the free choice piece. Players must use an original copy of the tune to be performed, and must provide a second copy for the examiner, which may be a photocopy. If there is no music available, a zero mark will be given for the piece. Any queries in writing should be addressed to the Director of Operations at least two weeks prior to the exam date.14.Any backing tracks provided by the candidate for use with free choice pieces must be capable of a music minus 1 playback without the examination part being audible to the examiner. If an unacceptable backing track is submitted, a zero mark will be given for the piece.15.All band exams are the advertised instruments only. Backing tapes may not be used in the exam.16.Any special needs candidates must notify the Rockschool office prior to the exam.17.The examiners decision is final. Normally, an examiner will hear every component in full, but on occasion an examiner may conclude an examination when a decision has been reached.18.Replacement certificates may be obtained by successful candidates. All replacements certificates will be marked as such and will incur a charge.19.Rockschool operates a quality assured appeals process. All appeals must be made in writing no later than 14 days after the exam date. There are two criteria for formal appeals, these are: Appeals in respect of errors in procedure Appeals in respect of errors in matching comments to marks awarded.Full details of Rockschool Ltds appeal process are available from the Rockschool office or website.Back to Contents Page42Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Appendix A: Performance PiecesDEBUT & GRADE 1GRADES 2 & 3 GRADES 4 & 5 Distinction17+/20 1: Very secure basic techniques 2: Musical use of appropriate expressive techniques 3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration 4: Seamless sync; secure continuity 5: Highly confident & assured presentation 1: Fluent basic techniques 2: Fluent use of appropriate instrumental techniques. vib., staccato etc. 3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration4: Seamless sync; secure continuity 5: Highly confident & assured presentation 6: High degree of stylistic awareness1: Fluent techniques 2: Fluent use of appropriate instrumental techniques. vib., staccato etc. 3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration 4: Seamless sync; effortless continuity 5: Highly confident & assured presentation 6: High degree of stylistic awareness 7: High level of appropriate improvisation Merit15+/20 1: Secure basic techniques2: Correct use of appropriate expressive techniques 3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration 4: Strong sense of sync/continuity5: Mainly confident presentation 1: Secure basic techniques2: Correct use of appropriate techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of sync/continuity5: Confident presentation6: Some degree of stylistic awareness 1: Secure techniques2: Musical use of appropriate techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of sync/continuity5: Confident presentation6: Some degree of stylistic awareness7: Consistent appropriate improvisation Pass13+/20 1: Mainly secure basic techniques 2: Some evidence of appropriate expressive techniques 3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/ duration 4: Mainly synchronised; occasional slips of continuity 5: Generally confident presentation with minor lapses 1: Mainly secure basic techniques2: Some evidence of appropriate techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/ duration4: Mainly synchronised; occasional slips of continuity5: Generally confident presentation6: Beginnings of stylistic awareness1: Mainly secure techniques2: Mainly correct use of appropriate techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/ duration4: Synchronised with occasional slips of continuity5: Generally confident presentation6: Evidence of stylistic awareness7: Some appropriate improvisation Below Pass 1912/20 1: Insecure basic techniques2: Inconsistent use of expressive techniques.3: Inconsistent rhythmic sense4: Poor synchronisation; unaware of errors5: Hesitant presentation 1: Insecure basic techniques2: Inconsistent use of some expressive techniques.3: Some inconsistent rhythmic sense4: Poor synchronisation; unaware of errors5: Hesitant presentation6: Inconsistent stylistic awareness1: Insecure techniques2: Inconsistent or incorrect use of instrumental techniques3: Inconsistent rhythmic sense4: Problems of synchronisation/ continuity5: Hesitant presentation6: Inconsistent stylistic awareness7: Inappropriate improvisation Below Pass 218/20 1: Consistent basic technical errors2: Failure to use any expressive techniques3: Wayward pulse; incorrect rhythm/ duration4: No sync; big continuity gaps; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation 1: Consistent basic technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Wayward pulse/rhythm/duration4: No sync; big continuity gaps; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware1: Consistent technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Poor pulse; largely incorrect rhythm/duration4: Little or no synchronisation; large gaps in continuity; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware7: No improvisation Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201243Appendix A: Performance PiecesDEBUT & GRADE 1GRADES 2 & 3 GRADES 4 & 5 Distinction17+/20 1: Very secure basic techniques 2: Musical use of appropriate expressive techniques 3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration 4: Seamless sync; secure continuity 5: Highly confident & assured presentation 1: Fluent basic techniques 2: Fluent use of appropriate instrumental techniques. vib., staccato etc. 3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration4: Seamless sync; secure continuity 5: Highly confident & assured presentation 6: High degree of stylistic awareness1: Fluent techniques 2: Fluent use of appropriate instrumental techniques. vib., staccato etc. 3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration 4: Seamless sync; effortless continuity 5: Highly confident & assured presentation 6: High degree of stylistic awareness 7: High level of appropriate improvisation Merit15+/20 1: Secure basic techniques2: Correct use of appropriate expressive techniques 3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration 4: Strong sense of sync/continuity5: Mainly confident presentation 1: Secure basic techniques2: Correct use of appropriate techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of sync/continuity5: Confident presentation6: Some degree of stylistic awareness 1: Secure techniques2: Musical use of appropriate techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of sync/continuity5: Confident presentation6: Some degree of stylistic awareness7: Consistent appropriate improvisation Pass13+/20 1: Mainly secure basic techniques 2: Some evidence of appropriate expressive techniques 3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/ duration 4: Mainly synchronised; occasional slips of continuity 5: Generally confident presentation with minor lapses 1: Mainly secure basic techniques2: Some evidence of appropriate techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/ duration4: Mainly synchronised; occasional slips of continuity5: Generally confident presentation6: Beginnings of stylistic awareness1: Mainly secure techniques2: Mainly correct use of appropriate techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/ duration4: Synchronised with occasional slips of continuity5: Generally confident presentation6: Evidence of stylistic awareness7: Some appropriate improvisation Below Pass 1912/20 1: Insecure basic techniques2: Inconsistent use of expressive techniques.3: Inconsistent rhythmic sense4: Poor synchronisation; unaware of errors5: Hesitant presentation 1: Insecure basic techniques2: Inconsistent use of some expressive techniques.3: Some inconsistent rhythmic sense4: Poor synchronisation; unaware of errors5: Hesitant presentation6: Inconsistent stylistic awareness1: Insecure techniques2: Inconsistent or incorrect use of instrumental techniques3: Inconsistent rhythmic sense4: Problems of synchronisation/ continuity5: Hesitant presentation6: Inconsistent stylistic awareness7: Inappropriate improvisation Below Pass 218/20 1: Consistent basic technical errors2: Failure to use any expressive techniques3: Wayward pulse; incorrect rhythm/ duration4: No sync; big continuity gaps; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation 1: Consistent basic technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Wayward pulse/rhythm/duration4: No sync; big continuity gaps; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware1: Consistent technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Poor pulse; largely incorrect rhythm/duration4: Little or no synchronisation; large gaps in continuity; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware7: No improvisation Back to Contents Page44Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Appendix B: Band Pieces (Performance Certifcate)LEVEL 1 (GRADES 1-3) LEVEL 2 (GRADES 4 & 5) Distinction 18+/20 1: Fluent basic techniques2: Fluent use of expressive techniques3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration4: Seamless sync within the band; secure continuity5: Highly confident & assured performances6: High degree of stylistic awareness7: Strong sense of internal communication within the band8: Strong effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Fluent techniques2: Fluent use of expressive techniques3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration4: Seamless internal sync; effortless continuity5: Highly confident & assured performances6: High degree of stylistic awareness7: High level of appropriate improvisation8: Musical sense of internal communication within band9: Successful communication of collective musical identity Merit 16+/20 1: Secure basic techniques2: Correct use of expressive techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of internal sync/continuity5: Mainly confident performances6: Some degree of stylistic awareness7: Some sense of internal communication within the band8: Some effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Secure techniques2: Musical use of expressive techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of internal sync/continuity5: Mainly confident performances6: Some degree of stylistic awareness7: Extensive appropriate improvisation8: Strong sense of internal communication within the band9: Some effort to communicate collective musical identity Pass 14+/20 1: Mainly secure basic techniques2: Some use of expressive techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/duration4: Mainly synchronised internally; 1 or 2 continuity errors5: Some hesitant performances6: Beginnings of stylistic awarenessrovisation7: Minimal sense of internal communication within band8: Some acknowledgement of audience presence 1: Mainly secure techniques2: Mainly correct use of expressive techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/duration4: Synchronised internally with 1 or 2 continuity errors5: Some hesitation in performances6: Beginnings of stylistic awareness7: Some appropriate improvisation8: Some sense of internal communication within the band9: Some effort to communicate collective musical identity Below Pass 1 913/20 1: Insecure basic techniques2: Inconsistent use of some expressive techniques3: Inconsistent rhythm/pulse/duration4: Poor internal synchronisation; unaware of errors5: Lack of confidence6: Stylistically unaware7: Lack of understanding between band members8: No effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Insecure techniques2: Some use of expressive techniques3: Inconsistent rhythm/pulse/duration4: Problems of internal synchronisation/continuity5: Lack of confidence6: Stylistically unaware7: Inappropriate improvisation8: Minimal sense of internal communication within band9: Little acknowledgement of audience presence Below Pass 2 18/20 1: Consistent basic technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Wayward pulse/rhythm/duration4: No sync; big continuity gaps; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware7: Lack of understanding between band members8: No effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Consistent technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Poor pulse; largely incorrect rhythm/duration4: Little or no sync; large gaps in continuity; false starts5: Visibly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware7: No improvisation attempted8: Lack of understanding between band members9: No effort to communicate collective musical identity Back to Contents PageBand Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 2009201245Appendix B: Band Pieces (Performance Certifcate)LEVEL 1 (GRADES 1-3) LEVEL 2 (GRADES 4 & 5) Distinction 18+/20 1: Fluent basic techniques2: Fluent use of expressive techniques3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration4: Seamless sync within the band; secure continuity5: Highly confident & assured performances6: High degree of stylistic awareness7: Strong sense of internal communication within the band8: Strong effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Fluent techniques2: Fluent use of expressive techniques3: Musical use of rhythm/pulse/duration4: Seamless internal sync; effortless continuity5: Highly confident & assured performances6: High degree of stylistic awareness7: High level of appropriate improvisation8: Musical sense of internal communication within band9: Successful communication of collective musical identity Merit 16+/20 1: Secure basic techniques2: Correct use of expressive techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of internal sync/continuity5: Mainly confident performances6: Some degree of stylistic awareness7: Some sense of internal communication within the band8: Some effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Secure techniques2: Musical use of expressive techniques3: Secure rhythm/pulse/duration4: Strong sense of internal sync/continuity5: Mainly confident performances6: Some degree of stylistic awareness7: Extensive appropriate improvisation8: Strong sense of internal communication within the band9: Some effort to communicate collective musical identity Pass 14+/20 1: Mainly secure basic techniques2: Some use of expressive techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/duration4: Mainly synchronised internally; 1 or 2 continuity errors5: Some hesitant performances6: Beginnings of stylistic awarenessrovisation7: Minimal sense of internal communication within band8: Some acknowledgement of audience presence 1: Mainly secure techniques2: Mainly correct use of expressive techniques3: Generally accurate rhythm/pulse/duration4: Synchronised internally with 1 or 2 continuity errors5: Some hesitation in performances6: Beginnings of stylistic awareness7: Some appropriate improvisation8: Some sense of internal communication within the band9: Some effort to communicate collective musical identity Below Pass 1 913/20 1: Insecure basic techniques2: Inconsistent use of some expressive techniques3: Inconsistent rhythm/pulse/duration4: Poor internal synchronisation; unaware of errors5: Lack of confidence6: Stylistically unaware7: Lack of understanding between band members8: No effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Insecure techniques2: Some use of expressive techniques3: Inconsistent rhythm/pulse/duration4: Problems of internal synchronisation/continuity5: Lack of confidence6: Stylistically unaware7: Inappropriate improvisation8: Minimal sense of internal communication within band9: Little acknowledgement of audience presence Below Pass 2 18/20 1: Consistent basic technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Wayward pulse/rhythm/duration4: No sync; big continuity gaps; false starts5: Highly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware7: Lack of understanding between band members8: No effort to communicate collective musical identity 1: Consistent technical errors2: Failure to observe expressive marks3: Poor pulse; largely incorrect rhythm/duration4: Little or no sync; large gaps in continuity; false starts5: Visibly nervous presentation6: Stylistically unaware7: No improvisation attempted8: Lack of understanding between band members9: No effort to communicate collective musical identity Back to Contents Page46Band Based Keyboards | Syllabus Guide | 20092012Appendix D: Sight Reading and Improvisation & InterpretationSIGHT READING DEBUT GRADE 3 SIGHT READING GRADES 45 IMPROV & INTERPRETATION GRADES 13 IMPROV & INTERPRETATION GRADES 45 Distinction 9+/10 1: Technically accurate and musical2: Consistent, accurate pulse3: Strong sense of style4: Communicative performance 1: Technically assured and effortless2: Strong sense of expressive logic3: Consistent pulse throughout4: Strong sense of style5: Strong sense of musical communication6: Strong sense of improvisation 1: Technically accurate and musical2: Wide range of expressive techniques3: Strong and consistent sense of pulse4: Strong sense of idiomatic improvisation5: Communicative performance 1: Technically assured and effortless2: Wide range of expressive techniques3: Strong and consistent sense of pulse4: Strong sense of idiom expressed through use of licks/grooves5: Strong sense of distinctive musical communication within style6: Consistent and exact sight reading Merit 78/10 1: Technically accurate2: Consistent, accurate pulse3: Appropriate stylistic awareness4: Confident performance 1: Technically accurate and musical2: All expression marks and techniques observed3: Accurate pulse4: Quite strong stylistic awareness5: Confident performance6: Good sense of improvisation 1: Technically accurate2: Some use of varied timbre/ articulation/register/dynamics3: Consistent, accurate pulse4: Appropriate stylistic awareness in improvisation5: Confident performance 1: Technically accurate and musical2: Range of expressive techniques3: Consistent, accurate pulse4: Quite strong awareness of classic features of the idiom5: Very confident performance6: Accurate sight reading Pass 6/10 1: Mainly technically accurate but some minor pitch and/or rhythm errors2: Largely consistent pulse (and