Professional Documents
Culture Documents
DOUBLE BASS
JAZZ FLUTE
MUSIC
ACCORDION
CERTIFICATES
GUITAR
SYLLABUS
CLARINET
Instrumental, Vocal & Groups
TIMPANI
Qualification specifications for
SINGING
certificate exams from 2018
TUBA
ENSEMBLE
TUNED PERCUSSION
SAXOPHONE
CHORAL
EUPHONIUM
PIANO DUET
CELLO
BASSOON
VIOLIN
PIANO
OBOE
WHAT’S CHANGED?
This syllabus features the following changes from the 2017 syllabus:
◗◗ Certificate exams are now available for a wider range of instruments
◗◗ Pieces may now be selected from Trinity’s graded repertoire lists as well as the certificate lists
◗◗ An information and regulations section is no longer included in this syllabus — this information
can be found at trinitycollege.com/music-regulations
OVERLAP ARRANGEMENTS
This syllabus is valid from 1 January 2018. There is no overlap as the requirements have not
changed significantly.
MUSIC
CERTIFICATES
SYLLABUS
Instrumental, Vocal & Groups
Qualification specifications for
certificate exams from 2018
Contents
3 / Welcome
4 / Introduction to Trinity’s music certificate exams
7 / About the exam
9 / Exam guidance: Performance
13 / Exam guidance: Presentation
14 / Exam guidance: Marking
24 / Solo Foundation Certificate
26 / Solo Intermediate Certificate
29 / Solo Advanced Certificate
31 / Group Foundation Certificate
32 / Group Intermediate Certificate
33 / Group Advanced Certificate
34 / Policies
36 / Join us online…
Trinity accepts entries for its exams on the condition that candidates conform to the
requirements of the appropriate syllabus. Any amendments to the requirements will
be published on our website and in reprints of the document.
2
Welcome
Welcome
Welcome to Trinity’s Music Certificates syllabus, containing details of certificate exams in a wide
range of instruments, and singing. Certificate exams assess the performance of a mini-recital
of pieces or songs, with no technical work or supporting tests required. They provide a real
Welcome
alternative to graded music exams for learners who wish to focus entirely on compiling and
performing a programme of pieces.
Certificate exams are offered at three levels:
◗◗ Foundation (equivalent to Grade 3)
◗◗ Intermediate (equivalent to Grade 5)
◗◗ Advanced (equivalent to Grade 8)
Certificate exams are available for a wide range of solo subjects, as well as for groups. Groups
may be of any size and consist of any combination of instrumentalists and/or vocalists who wish
to gain recognition for their skills in ensemble performance.
We hope you enjoy exploring the music on offer in this syllabus and we wish you every success
in the exams and your wider music-making.
Introduction to Trinity’s
music certificate exams
OBJECTIVE OF THE QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT AND MARKING
Trinity’s music certificate exams are designed Trinity’s music certificate exams are assessed
to offer an alternative to graded exams by by external examiners trained and moderated
focusing on the performance of a complete by Trinity. Examiners provide marks and
mini-recital. Specifically, certificate exams comments for each component of the exam
allow a candidate to: using the assessment criteria on pages 16–21.
◗◗ select from three levels of assessment The exam is marked out of 100. Candidates’
representing three key stages of musical results correspond to different attainment
development — Foundation (equivalent to levels as follows:
Grade 3), Intermediate (equivalent to Grade 5)
and Advanced (equivalent to Grade 8) Mark Attainment level
◗◗ create their own mini-recital drawn from the
relevant repertoire lists as detailed on page 80–100 DISTINCTION
9, as well as their own repertoire choices
60–79 PASS
◗◗ gain marks for programme planning,
programme notes and stagecraft 45–59 BELOW PASS 1
◗◗ receive precise and specific feedback to 0–44 BELOW PASS 2
inform their continued musical development
◗◗ prepare for Trinity’s Recital diplomas, which See pages 14–21 for further information about
follow the same format as certificate exams. how the exam is marked.
4
Introduction to Trinity’s music certificate exams
Introduction
for Music Educators (Trinity CME). Find out
more at trinitycollege.com/CME
TRINITY QUALIFICATIONS THAT
COMPLEMENT THE CERTIFICATE EXAMS Music Tracks is an initiative in the UK
Trinity’s music qualifications offer flexible designed to support teachers in delivering
progression routes from beginner to advanced instrumental tuition for both large and small
levels in a range of musical styles. All are groups. Find out more at trinitycollege.com/
designed to help candidates develop as musictracks
musicians according to their individual needs We also offer:
as learners.
◗◗ graded, certificate and diploma
While certificate exams focus entirely on qualifications in drama-related subjects
performance, including separate marks for
◗◗ English language qualifications
presentation, graded music exams assess
a broad range of musicianship skills. Find ◗◗ teaching English qualifications
more information about graded exams ◗◗ Arts Award (only available in certain
at trinitycollege.com/gradedexams countries).
Trinity’s graded Rock & Pop exams are Specifications for all these qualifications can
available for bass, drums, guitar, keyboards be downloaded from trinitycollege.com
and vocals. Find out more at trinityrock.com
Candidates can enter any combination of
certificate or graded exams, and do not need
to pass any particular level in order to proceed
to a higher level.
Theory exams are available from Grade 1
to support learners to develop their
understanding of the technical language
of music. However, no theory qualifications
or other prerequisites are required to enter
certificate or graded exams at any level.
Find out more at trinitycollege.com/theory
Graded Musical Theatre exams are available
for solo, pair and group work. Find out more
at trinitycollege.com/musicaltheatre
5
Introduction to Trinity’s music certificate exams
7 7 FTCL
6 6 LTCL LMusTCL
ATCL AMusTCL
4 5
Certificate for Music Educators
(Trinity CME)
Grade 8 Grade 8 Grade 8 Advanced Advanced
Entry Initial
1 Initial Initial
Level 3 Track
Entry First
Levels Access
1–2 Track
6
About the exam
PERFORMANCE PRESENTATION
(90 MARKS) (10 MARKS)
A programme of pieces from the repertoire lists Programme planning, programme notes
and optional own-choice repertoire. and stagecraft.
PERFORMANCE
PRESENTATION
10 MARKS
PRESENTATION 10
TOTAL 100
7
About the exam
◗◗ Eb tenor horn
EXAM DURATIONS
◗◗ Trumpet/Cornet/Flugelhorn
Exams are designed to include sufficient time
◗◗ Eb soprano cornet (Advanced level only) for setting up and presenting all sections, and
◗◗ Euphonium overall durations are as follows:
◗◗ Baritone
◗◗ Trombone
◗◗ Bass trombone (Advanced level only)
◗◗ Tuba/Eb bass/Bb bass
◗◗ Violin
◗◗ Viola Foundation Intermediate Advanced
13 mins 23 mins 33 mins
◗◗ Cello
8
Exam guidance: Performance
9
Exam guidance: Performance
◗◗ Own choice pieces may be taken from any ◗◗ Other groups: Candidates entering for
source and must relate to the certificate group certificate exams as any other type
levels as indicated below: of group should present a programme
consisting entirely of own-choice pieces.
No repertoire lists are provided (except in
Level pproximate grade
A
the case of choral certificates, for which
equivalent
suggested repertoire lists are available at
FOUNDATION GRADE 3 trinitycollege.com/music-certificates).
◗◗ Candidates entering for group certificate
INTERMEDIATE GRADE 5 exams (except where repertoire lists are
provided) should use the pieces listed for
ADVANCED GRADE 8
solo certificates as a guide for selecting
own-choice pieces that will enable all
◗◗ Own-choice pieces must contain a level of members of the group to demonstrate
technical and musical demand similar to that performance at the level of the exam
of the pieces on the published repertoire lists. being taken.
◗◗ Candidates’ own composition(s) may be
included as own-choice pieces. PERFORMANCE AND INTERPRETATION
◗◗ Trinity does not pre-approve own-choice Candidates may perform any or all of their
pieces, although marks may be deducted pieces from memory if they wish. However,
where they do not allow candidates this is not compulsory and no additional
to demonstrate performance at the marks are given for this.
required level.
10
Exam guidance: Performance
11
Exam guidance: Performance
12
Exam guidance: Presentation
STAGECRAFT
2 MARKS
◗◗ The marks for this component reflect the
way in which the candidate presents the
This section of the exam is split into three: performance to the listener, including
personal presentation and stage presence.
PROGRAMME PLANNING
4 MARKS ◗◗ Candidates should dress appropriately for
the exam.
◗◗ This component focuses on the overall
balance of the pieces played, and ◗◗ The examiner won’t make comments
how they show different sides of the between pieces, to reflect that this is a
◗◗ The performance duration is also taken ◗◗ Candidates will not need to give a spoken
into account. introduction.
PROGRAMME NOTES
4 MARKS
◗◗ Candidates should present a short set of
written programme notes to the examiner
at the beginning of the exam.
◗◗ Programme notes must include:
—— date, time and place of the performance
—— name(s) and instrument(s) of performer(s)
—— titles and composers (NB own-choice
pieces must be marked with an asterisk)
—— brief biography of the candidate(s)
—— timings for all pieces
—— texts and translations of songs (if
applicable).
◗◗ Detailed notes on the pieces are not required.
13
Exam guidance: Marking
30 TECHNIQUE
30 COMMUNICATION
14
Exam guidance: Marking
Total mark
for performance Attainment level
72–90 DISTINCTION
54–71 PASS
15
Header
Exam guidance:
Left Marking
FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE
Examiners use the criteria below to decide on the mark for performance:
DISTINCTION PASS
24–30 MARKS 18–23 MARKS
16
Exam guidance: Marking
Frequent errors. Poor continuity with little Many errors, clearly inadequate preparation.
sense of pulse and frequent stumbles. Very poor continuity with frequent stumbles,
restarts and/or stoppages.
Unreliable technical control of the instrument Many fundamental technical problems and
with significant flaws. Variable and unstable errors. Clearly unsatisfactory basic tone.
basic sound, poorly produced and maintained.
17
Header
Exam guidance:
Left Marking
INTERMEDIATE CERTIFICATE
Examiners use the criteria below to decide on the mark for performance:
DISTINCTION PASS
24–30 MARKS 18–23 MARKS
Accuracy & fluency Accurate and fluent reading Essentially accurate in notes
with keen attention to musical with adequate fluency and
and notational details. some attention to musical
Secure and convincing and notational details.
rhythm and pulse. Adequate continuity with a
sense of pulse, possibly with
minor slips.
18
Exam guidance: Marking
19
Header
Exam guidance:
Left Marking
ADVANCED CERTIFICATE
Examiners use the criteria below to decide on the mark for performance:
DISTINCTION PASS
24–30 MARKS 18–23 MARKS
20
Exam guidance: Marking
Frequent errors and misreadings with little Many misreadings and errors, clearly
attention to detail. Over-cautious tempo, and inadequate preparation. Very poor
pulse not evident, with frequent stumbles continuity with frequent stumbles,
and little continuity. restarts and/or stoppages.
21
Exam guidance: Marking
Examiners use the criteria below to decide on the mark for presentation:
4 MARKS 3 MARKS
Programme notes All the required elements One of the required elements
present and the format is missing although the format
as expected. is as expected.
22
Exam guidance: Marking
Two of the required elements Three or four required No written programme notes
missing and/or the format is elements missing and the offered. Exam guidance: Marking
not completely as expected. format is not as expected.
23
Solo Foundation Certificate
PERFORMANCE 90
Performance duration: Maximum time allowance
8–10 minutes for own-choice pieces:
PRESENTATION 10 3.5 minutes
See pages 9–12 for full details.
◗◗ Programme planning (4 marks)
◗◗ Programme notes (4 marks)
◗◗ Stagecraft (2 marks)
TOTAL 100
24
Solo Foundation Certificate
25
Solo Intermediate Certificate
PERFORMANCE 90
Performance duration: Maximum time allowance
15–20 minutes for own-choice pieces:
PRESENTATION 10 7 minutes
TOTAL 100
26
Solo Intermediate Certificate
27
Solo Intermediate Certificate
28
Solo Advanced Certificate
PERFORMANCE 90
Performance duration: Maximum time
25–30 minutes allowance for
PRESENTATION 10 own-choice pieces:
10 minutes
◗◗ Programme planning (4 marks) See pages 9–12 for full details.
◗◗ Programme notes (4 marks)
◗◗ Stagecraft (2 marks)
TOTAL 100
29
Solo Advanced Certificate
EXAM STRUCTURE
The Foundation Certificate exam contains
the following:
PRESENTATION
Candidates are assessed on:
◗◗ Programme planning
◗◗ Programme notes
◗◗ Stagecraft
See page 13 for full details.
31
Group Intermediate Certificate
EXAM STRUCTURE
The Intermediate Certificate exam contains
the following:
Maximum Performance duration: Maximum time allowance
marks 15–20 minutes for own-choice pieces:
7 minutes
PERFORMANCE 90
See pages 9–12 for full details.
Other groups
PRESENTATION 10
Candidates should present a balanced
programme of 15–20 minutes, consisting
◗◗ Programme planning (4 marks) entirely of own-choice pieces.
◗◗ Programme notes (4 marks) See pages 9–12 for full details.
◗◗ Stagecraft (2 marks)
OWN-CHOICE GUIDELINES
TOTAL 100 Candidates entering for group certificate
exams (except where repertoire lists are
provided) should use the repertoire listed
for equivalent solo certificates as a guide for
selecting own-choice pieces that will enable
all candidates to demonstrate performance
at Intermediate level.
PRESENTATION
Candidates are assessed on:
◗◗ Programme planning
◗◗ Programme notes
◗◗ Stagecraft
See page 13 for full details.
32
Group Advanced Certificate
EXAM STRUCTURE
The Advanced Certificate exam contains
the following:
Maximum Performance duration: Maximum time allowance
marks 25–30 minutes for own-choice pieces:
10 minutes
PERFORMANCE 90
See pages 9–12 for full details.
Other groups
PRESENTATION
Candidates are assessed on:
◗◗ Programme planning
◗◗ Programme notes
◗◗ Stagecraft
See page 13 for full details.
33
Policies
Policies
CHILD PROTECTION DATA PROTECTION
Trinity College London is fully committed to Trinity College London is registered as
safeguarding and protecting the candidates a Data Controller with the Information
that we work with. All posts, including Commissioner’s Office in the United Kingdom
examiners, are subject to a safer recruitment under data protection legislation. Please see
process, including the disclosure of criminal trinitycollege.com/data-protection for the
records and vetting checks. Our safeguarding most up-to-date information about Trinity’s
policies and procedures are regularly reviewed data protection procedures and policies or
and promote safeguarding and safer working contact us on dpo@trinitycollege.com for
practice across all parts of our work. further information.
34
Policies
MALPRACTICE
rinity requires its registered exam centres
T
to report any suspected malpractice by
Policies
candidates, teachers or examiners. In situations
where a centre is found to be inadequate or
to be guilty of malpractice, either in terms of
provision of facilities or in administration, the
exam centre may be required to suspend all of
its activities relating to Trinity exams until the
cause of the problem is identified and rectified,
if appropriate. In extreme circumstances, the
centre may no longer be permitted to act as an
exam centre registered with Trinity.
In the very rare cases or circumstances where
a centre or individual may be suspected of
malpractice, Trinity will aim to minimise any
inconvenience caused to any affected candidate,
and would like to thank candidates, teachers
and centre staff for their kind co-operation in
reporting any suspected incident of cheating,
thereby assisting Trinity in upholding the quality
and integrity of its exam process.
35
Join us online…
Join us online…
Get the full music experience online at
trinitycollege.com/music-certificates
You can contact the music support
team at Trinity’s central office at
music@trinitycollege.com, or find the
contact details of your local representative
at trinitycollege.com/worldwide
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