Two separate movements from within the one work can be played as two different pieces for performance provided, they meet the representation requirement for ‘contrasting’ pieces.
Candidates can present two short pieces of repertoire by one composer as one performance. Candidates may, for example, combine 2 movements from a work, or 2 songs from the same song cycle.
Contrasting pieces can be broadly interpreted such as contrast in period, genre, mood, style.
The choice and suitability of repertoire should involve discussion between the candidate and the teacher who understands the musical requirements and interpretation of the marking guidelines for the HSC.
AMEB repertoire may be used.
Students may NOT perform the same piece (ACE 8013) for Music 2 and Music Extension.
Only performers and examiners are permitted in the examination venue. Ensemble members, accompanists and page turners are permitted for the duration of the piece in which they are involved. Candidates may use music during the examination.
Accompaniment may be:
live or
pre-recorded or
both live accompaniment with pre-recorded accompaniment.
In the case of pre-recorded accompaniments, the part of the candidate must be clearly displayed and must not be included on the recording.
Pre-recorded backing tracks should be sympathetic to the style of music and be of good quality with a balance between the performer(s) and the backing track that is suitable for the performance space.
A click track can be used.
A solo work is where an instrument or voice is featured as distinct and takes the musical interest and may be accompanied by one or more instruments.
The term ‘ensemble’ refers to any piece presented by two or more performers that specifically demonstrates the individual candidate’s use and understanding of ensemble skills. In ensemble performances the student is permitted to undertake a non-solo part, provided that the musical contribution can be clearly identified in the performance. The specific parts of the ensemble do NOT need to be equal. It is important to consider how the piece allows the candidate to demonstrate the outcomes related to performance.
A teacher can be used as an accompanist. Accompanists are not marked as part of the performance.
Ensemble direction can be explicit or implicit and displayed through sophisticated musical communication and interaction between the performers.
Structural coherency is the awareness and control of the macro and micro-structures of the piece, including the overall form and the subtle rhythmic, harmonic and melodic ideas of the performance.
Stylistic endeavours display the validity and integrity of the composer’s intent.
Sophistication and sensitivity are manifest in the candidate’s musicality and personal interpretation.
Technical skill is the command across the instrument displaying an agile technique and mastery of articulation and tone.
Unity and balance should be evident in the overall ensemble.
Maximum performance time will be 20 minutes.
Candidates will perform a piece of music on instrument(s) or voice as an ensemble item.
Candidates will perform two solo contrasting pieces of music on instrument(s) or voice.
Candidates will be assessed on their musical effectiveness through:
musical sophistication and sensitivity
demonstration of technical skills
stylistic interpretation of the chosen repertoire
Sense of personal expression and personal interpretation of the chosen repertoire
Understanding of solo performance techniques.
Candidates will be assessed on their musical effectiveness through:
Demonstrated understanding of ensemble techniques
Musical sophistication and sensitivity
Demonstration of technical skills
Stylistic interpretation of the chosen repertoire
Sense of personal expression and personal interpretation of the chosen repertoire