PDMC Performance assessments
big sing performance event
key information
What are PDMC Performance Assessments?- introductory grade assessments similar to exams offered by official exam boards. They are offered by the PDMC as an affordable and flexible in-house alternative.
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 inclusivity? 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. In comparison, official exam board fees are over £50 per grade, plus accompanist fees. 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 assessmetn and application form
The first PDMC Performance Assessments will take place on Sunday 7 July at a venue TBC in Buxton. To apply for your child to take part in a PDMC Performance Assessment, please speak to your child's instrument teacher and then click here to complete the short online form
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.