HND Music Performance Year 1

Unit 21 Keyboard Skills

Assignment Descriptor

Assignment 02 Keyboard Performance LO3.1/ LO3.2/ LO4.1

Assessor/s Neil Metcalfe IV Dot Allan
Deadline Tuesday 25th March 2013 Date 2 September 2013

Description of assignment

For this assignment you are asked to do the following -

 Choose TWO pieces to perform at the keyboard which you have rehearsed without
referring to a traditional printed score. You may use chord charts, or an audio/video
recording as a starting point.

o One of the pieces should include an element of improvisation LO3.1 (eg. a

twelve-bar blues). You should be able to show through your performance
(on either piano or keyboard), that you understand how to improvise (ie; what
the underlying chords/modes are, that you can elaborate on a basic chord
progression by creating rhythmic and melodic patterns, and that your
interpretation is stylistically coherent). This performance will also show that
you can perform solo music by ear LO3.2

o One of the pieces should show you are able to manage the technology of
the keyboard LO4.1, by using the voices and effects available to you
(performing to a drum-beat and using at least one voice other than the
standard ‘piano’ setting). This performance will also show that you can
perform ensemble music by ear LO3.2.

Assessment and feedback

 You will be given formative assessment throughout the course, each time you work
with your Lecturer in preparing for your performance(s). During this phase you will
also discuss appropriate repertoire and practice strategies.
 Your final performances will be recorded on video, and written (summative)
feedback will be given by the Assessor. This will form your final mark for
Learning Outcomes 3.1, 3.2 and 4.1.
 Although the due date is March 25th, you may record your performances at
any point up to this date (with prior arrangement with the Lecturer in charge),
and you do not have to record both pieces on the same day.
 Merits and Distinctions are awarded for performances which demonstrate the
criteria outlined below
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria
Learning Outcome 3:
Be able to perform keyboard works using creative practical techniques

3.1 Prepare works that include elements of improvisation effectively

3.2 Perform a varied programme of solo and ensemble music by ear

Learning Outcome 4:
Be able to demonstrate keyboard applications in creative music technology

4.1 Perform effectively using appropriate idiomatic conventions

Merits and Distinctions

This unit carries the following Merits and Distinctions. Grades are awarded when
performances during the year have consistently met the appropriate characteristics.

Merit descriptors Indicative characteristics

M1 Identify and apply strategies to find
appropriate solutions
M2 Select/design and apply appropriate
methods/techniques
M3 Present and communicate appropriate
findings
Accurate and generally fluent playing with
some attention to musical and notational
details.
Generally rhythmical playing with a reliable
pulse.
A secure level of technical ability, with
confident and varied use of instrumental
resources.
Good quality, flexibility and projection of
sound.
Recognisable and comfortable sense of
performance with consistent audience
engagement.
Clear awareness of appropriate style with a
recognisable and individual musical
personality.

See over for Distinction descriptors

2013 HND1 Keyboard Skills Ass Brief2

Distinction descriptors
D1 Use critical reflection to evaluate own
work and justify valid conclusions
D2 Take responsibility for managing and
organising activities
D3 Demonstrate convergent/lateral/creative
thinking
Indicative characteristics
Seamless and effortless command of
technique with musical, acute and sensitive
control of intonation and other instrumental
resources.
Excellent production, flexibility and
projection of sound, showing a clear
understanding of the physiology of
performance.
Fully accurate, fluent and effortless with
acute attention to all musical and notational
details.
Fully secure in rhythm and notes with a
sensitive and strong sense of pulse.
Confident, exciting and effective
engagement with the audience.
A high level of musical sensitivity and a
convincing grasp of appropriate style with a
clear, distinctive and authoritative musical
personality.
2013 HND1 Keyboard Skills Ass Brief2