phases. Students at this level vary widely in aptitude and interest; it is therefore impossible to outline a program that will serve the needs of all students. The general information outlined in this chapter is intended for students of average ability. Four areas of study will be discussed: repertoire, techni- que, theory, and sight-reading. The intermediate repertoire is generally divided into three levels: 1. early intermediate (for about fourth year students) 2. intermediate (slightly more difficult—late fourth or fifth year) 3. upper intermediate (more difficult—about fifth or sixth year) It is important to choose music that is not too difficult for students to play. In competitions one frequently hears a piece played by a student who does not yet have the technical capabilities to perform it effectively: the tempo is too slow (or too fast), the runs are not even, or the character and mood of the piece is not evident in the student’s performance. In this case the teacher should have chosen an easier piece.