David Barton’s article on local music festivals (MT, April 2024) is to be highly recommended and should be staple reading for all music teachers, perhaps passed on, developed and encouraged by leaders of local authority music education providers. It should also be required reading for all classroom music teachers – even part of pre-service training.
Graded exams for instrumental or vocal learners have their place. The exams serve an essential need to measure progress, and support application for extended studies at universities or music conservatoires. But Barton’s point about performance is spot-on. An exam may involve the act of performing but is not necessarily a performance (other than to one person), whereas a live, venue-held performance with, as he says, an audience of parents, friends, volunteers and so on brings the act of performing to a new level of experience.
Register now to continue reading
Register to the Music Teacher website today to read more of the latest news and developments from the world of music education.
You’ll receive:
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
