What’s new this week?
Remaining Lessons this term
The following information has been taken from the learning diary: -
Solo Performance Week: Working through all songs & technical exercises with tutor
Solo Performance Week II: Work through all songs & technical exercises with tutor
RSL Awards Music Exams: Monday 31st of March and Tuesday 1st of April. IPM closed 2nd until 21st April 2025
I must remind all candidates that the exam board is particular about their schedule and that they ultimately have the last say.
Assessment Criteria Important Information
I-Play Music serves as the Musical Artist Development Centre for Coulsdon. Our mission is to teach individuals how to master their chosen musical instrument, including vocals, and to perform at their best.
Assessment Criteria
1. Sommand of Instrument The quality of the sound produced from the instrument, including the consistency of sound / tone, control of sound / tone commensurate with grade. In short, the candidate must ensure that the performance must correspond to or match the sound of the recording.
2. Sync or Pulse alignment of the performance to backing track, metronome or applied to a solo performance, observing all notation markings. For unaccompanied pieces candidates should maintain a secure internal pulse and adjust the pulse where instructed within the music.
3. Accuracy and Understanding Representing the written notation accurately, except by instruction through performance notes, or interpreting the written part with equivalent skills demonstrated. A secure understanding of musical structure has to be evidenced through transitions of phrases, bars and sections.
4. Style and Expression An expressive and commanding performance of the notated material dictated by the demands of the performance piece.
A compelling performance involves more than just playing notes; it requires emotional engagement. Examiners assess candidates based on their ability to convey expression while playing. Candidates who perform without emotion or movement risk a minimum deduction of two marks for each performance.
Additionally, marks are deducted if a performance lacks realism—this realism is best achieved through collaboration with others.
The grade books feature pieces accompanied by recordings from professional musicians, complete with sheet music and instructional overviews. Students have the opportunity to "learn to perform" alongside these real musicians through full mix audio and backing tracks, simulating a live performance experience.
While this isn’t the same as performing with the musicians in person, it’s the next best thing. We encourage students to practice and refine their skills by playing alongside peers and tutors. That’s why we hold band rehearsals during the summer term, preparing each student to showcase their talents at the IPM CAPA. Let’s inspire our young musicians to embrace these opportunities and shine!
School Attendance Register Update.
It had come to our attention during the two weeks before the mock exam that sending notification emails to some schools caused us some problems, this is because some parents had not updated us with these changes. It is not our responsibility to call parents of students’ every time we run exams. Parents and persons of care, please be mindful of this.
Learning Theme for the next two weeks: Solo Performance.
With two weeks left to go before the week of the exams, be prepared to push yourself to play all three songs, all technical exercises and supporting tests, and to be able to answer all general musicianship questions, prepared by your tutor.
Books and Sheet Music
The Rockschool link on our website has been updated and will lead you to the book and sheet music page. https://www.iplaymusic.org/ Purchasing sheet music from RSL via our website is easy to do. You will be able to download what you purchase and immediately save to your device. Print off all related sheet music and put them in your folder and bring them to your lessons.
There are very important points that I have raised in this new bulletin, especially around exams and the concert; it is well worth taking note of these. It is now half term. Happy Valentine’s Day, have a good break!
Myke Masters Lewis