PDMC Performance assessments
big sing performance event
key information
​You can also click here for a downloadable version of our Key Information
Our July 2025 Performance Assessments have been very popular and we have had to close applications. If you have not yet applied and would like information about our next assessment date, please e-mail admin@pdmc.org.uk
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What are PDMC Performance Assessments?- introductory grade assessments similar to exams offered by official music exam boards. They are offered by the PDMC as an affordable and flexible in-house alternative. Anyone considering applying to take a PDMC Performance Assessment should first speak to their instrument teacher to discuss whether they are ready
Who Performance Assessments for?-young string players, who are in their early years of learning violin, viola or cello.
Why take Performance Assessments? Experience shows that graded music assessments offer a significant motivation for pupils. With sufficient preparation from everyone involved (teacher, pupil, parents/carers) the Assessments will lead to a greater satisfaction in playing and higher technical accomplishments.
What will Performance Assessments consist of?
Introductory Assessment - two pieces from the PDMC syllabus, two scales, and a short sightreading test (playing a simple piece of unknown music presented by the examiner). This is similar to official exam board Initial Grade requirements.
Level 1 Assessment -three pieces from the PDMC syllabus, three scales and also an appropriate sightreading test. The Level 1 certificate will be similar to official exam board Grade 1 requirements.
All pupils will receive written feedback on their performance and successful candidates will receive a Certificate of Achievement.
Who will assess? The assessor will be a string teacher, known to PDMC, with years of experience of working with pupils in the region and will be fully DBS checked.
Can adjustments be made for pupils who need them? We may be able to adjust the assessment procedure in special cases. Please speak initially to your child’s string teacher if you think this may be appropriate.
How much does it cost? £15 per child per assessment, which includes the cost of an accompanist. This is significantly cheaper than an exam board fee. If paying the assessment fee may be difficult for your family Bursaries may be available. Click here for more information and our Bursary application form.
When is the next assessment day and how do I apply? see below.
Need more information? contact admin@pdmc.org.uk
date of next assessment and application form
The first PDMC Performance Assessments will take place on Saturday 5 July at Buxton Community School. Applications for the July 2025 assessments have now closed. If you would like to be informed about our next assessments please e-mail admin@pdmc.org.uk
what to prepare
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Violin and Cello introductory assessment: two pieces, which must incorporate at least second fingers (violin) and third fingers (cello). This must include varied rhythm patterns, for example, whole notes, half notes and rests. D and A major scales for violin, one octave. G and D major scales for cello, one octave. Scales to be played in separate bows. A short example of sightreading will be given.
Violin and Cello Level 1 Assessment: three pieces that have featured in official exam board syllabi for a number of years. Scales and arpeggios for violin on D and A, one octave. G major, two octaves with slurred and separate bowing, as requested by the examiner (scales only, not arpeggios). For cello, G and D major, one octave and C major, two octaves, plus arpeggios. Scales must be prepared with separate and slurred bowing. Arpeggios separate bows only. Sightreading similar to official exam board grade 1 level will be given.
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If pieces have a piano accompaniment, music for this must be provided. You can also download a printable version of the syllabi here
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what happens next?
We will contact you to confirm that we have received your child's application and to let you know the venue and time of your child's assessment.