ABRSM Grade 2 Distinction for Yixin

Today I had the pleasure of presenting an ABRSM Grade 2 distinction certificate to Yixin.

Here’s a summary of the Mark form for Yixin’s piano performance:

Overall Result: Distinction

Pieces performed and feedback:

1. J. L. Dussek: Gavotte in F
   • Confident and stylish performance
   • Neatly articulated phrases with a bright tempo
   • Almost fully even and crisp rhythm
   • Effective contrast in tone and touch between sections

2. Stephen Duro: Forget-me-not Waltz
   • Beautifully poised performance
   • Imaginative flexibility in tempo
   • Carefully graded dynamics
   • Clear waltz feel with sensitively balanced bass and melody

3. David Blackwell: Railroad Blues
   • Clear sense of drive through phrases
   • Lively approach with crisp phrase shape
   • Well-defined dynamic changes
   • Scope for stronger bass line and more spacious finish

4. Beethoven: Écossaise in G, WoO 23, arr. Czerny
   • Moved along at a steady tempo
   • Well-shaped dynamics and buoyancy in articulation
   • Emphasis on offbeat chords could enhance character

Performance as a Whole:

• Strong sense of style evident in each piece
• Highly polished performance
• Robust delivery enhancing musical character
• Poised rhythm at suitable tempo
• Vivid dynamic contrast
• Largely convincing account, deemed excellent

Congratulations to Yixin on a wonderful exam performance.