A solo performance is considered to be a piece in which the student's part plays a significant or leading role, its contribution to the music is distinctive and clearly recognisable in its individuality. The performance may be on any instrument or voice in any style or genre.

Music that was written with an accompaniment must be performed with that accompaniment. The accompaniment should not be altered to double the solo line. The usual accompaniment for a solo performance will be by one other performer on a contrasting instrument. For instance, a singer, flautist or trombonist may be accompanied by a pianist. However, students are are to perform with a larger ensemble where there is a clear solo part throughout and where the music music was originally written for these instrumental and/or vocal forces.

Performances accompanied by backing tracks are acceptable but the part to be assessed must not be audible as part of the backing track.

An ensemble performance must consist of two or more performers, playing undoubled and simultaneously sounding, independent parts (for the majority), with or without additional backing or accompaniment as appropriate.

When performing their ensemble students should, in addition to accuracy and other essentials of effective performance, pay attention to balance and the reactive and adjustment to other parts.

A solo with accompaniment is not acceptable as an ensemble unless the students being assessed is the accompanist.

Performance accompanied by backing tracks are acceptable but the part to be assessed must include elements of ensemble performance that could include accompaniment of other parts. The part to be assessed must not be audible as part of the backing track.