Today I had the great pleasure of presenting an ABRSM Grade 3 Distinction certificate to my pupil Ian.

Ian played a wonderful programme consisting of Beethoven: Ecossaise in E flat (No. 4 from Six Ecossaises, WoO 83), Ailbhe McDonagh: Anastasia (from It’s a Piano Thing, Book 2), Alan Bullard: Disco Baroque and finishing with Anon.: Menuet in F.

The examiners notes were a pleasure to read: Beethoven: Ecossaise in E flat (No. 4 from Six Ecossaises, WoO 83) “The tempo served the music well and there was an assured sense of line and phrasing throughout. Good balance was demonstrated between hands, with a natural sense of rise and fall in the phrasing.”, Ailbhe McDonagh: Anastasia (from It’s a Piano Thing, Book 2) “A definite sense of style was conveyed, with the melodic line projected clearly above sensitively placed accompanying chords. A real sense of the reflective mood with well-tiered dynamics embraced.”, Alan Bullard: Disco Baroque “…clear dynamics and effective dynamics were included well and there was a highly convincing feeling of musical contrast to conclude”, Anon.: Menuet in F. “A poised and well-organised account, with a clear engagement with the elegant character and musical mood.”

Summing up the performance “There was a high level of personal commitment across the programme, and the pieces were well-framed with ideal pacing and sequencing throughout. The different musical identities of the pieces came across effectively and demonstrated a firm musical understanding overall.”

I would like to thank Ian for his hard work as we finalised the preparation in the lead-up to the exam. Congratulations!