ABRSM Grade 5 Distinction for Jordan

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

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

Overall Result: Distinction

Pieces performed and feedback:

1. Cimarosa: Allegro (3rd movt from Sonata in C minor, C. 68)
   • Boldly projected performance with mostly clear articulation
   • Momentum broadly well maintained with secure notes and varied dynamic colours
   • Convincingly conveyed baroque style

4. Bernadette Marmion: Wind in the Willows (from Allsorts)
   • Effective lilt at an appropriately chosen andante tempo
   • Well-sustained legato feel with occasional losses of textural clarity
   • Note precision and rhythmic fluency well maintained
   • Sensitively applied rubato and expressive dynamic shaping
5. Kabalevsky: Scherzo (No. 14 from 30 Children’s Pieces, Op. 27)
   • Crisp and clear articulation capturing the scherzo style
   • Light but positive touch
   • Musical flexibility in pulse with characterful presentation
   • Minor blemishes in note placement but fully realized dynamic shaping
6. S. Bach: Invention No. 8 in F, BWV 779
   • Clear articulation and positive touch at a well-chosen tempo
   • Spirited delivery
   • Secure note delivery
   • Overall forward momentum confidently maintained

Performance as a Whole:

• Well-balanced and varied program showcasing range of styles
• Effective sequence and pacing of items
• Good signs of musical understanding and intention
• Opportunities for further exploration in textures and colours
• Broadly evident performance awareness with room for more flair and energy

Congratulations to Jordan on a wonderful exam performance.