Music Extension 2020 HSC exam pack

Two solo pieces

Students should:

• choose contrasting repertoire pieces that highlight their technical ability, demonstrates their strengths and allows them to convey a sophisticated stylistic understanding
• perform with an ease of delivery and present a personally expressive performance which demonstrates a variety of dynamics, articulations and tonal shading
• note that a contrasting repertoire may have stylistic unity aligned to the performer’s strengths.

In better performances, students were able to:

• present repertoire to display outstanding technical facility and interpretative skills
• show a sophisticated musical awareness and an insightful understanding of the style and structural coherency
• sustain personal engagement and momentum for the duration of the program
• work collaboratively with their accompanists to deliver a polished and refined performance.

Areas for students to improve include:

• rehearsing in the performance space prior to the day of the exam
• choosing repertoire that enables them to explore musical sensitivity, nuances and technical challenges
• taking advantage of as many performing opportunities as possible in the lead up to the exam.

Ensemble piece

Students should:

• choose repertoire in which the musical interest is shared between the ensemble members and different roles are explored
• work with ensemble members who are suitably matched in technical skill, have adequate rehearsal time, and are well positioned and balanced
• demonstrate excellent ensemble communication and interaction, with the ability to lead the ensemble with subtlety and sophistication, ensuring seamless transitions between ensemble roles.

In better performances, students were able to:

• demonstrate a thorough understanding of all parts and varying roles within the ensemble – not only their part
• present works which are able to fully demonstrate expressive variety and outstanding technical skills.

Areas for students to improve include:

• ensuring ensemble direction is musically and stylistically appropriate
• attending to positioning and balance within the ensemble in a rigorous rehearsal process
• selecting ensemble members who are suitably matched in technical skill with adequate rehearsal time.