ABRSM Grade 3 Distinction

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

Alex played a wonderful programme consisting of Handel: Gavotte in G, HWV 491, Grechaninov: Riding the Hobby-Horse (No. 5 from Children’s Album, Op. 98), Ailbhe McDonagh: Anastasia (from It’s a Piano Thing, Book 2) and finishing with Haydn: Andante (2nd movt from Trumpet Concerto in E flat, Hob. VIIe:1), arr. White.

The examiners notes were a pleasure to read: Handel: Gavotte “the phrases were shaped and the dance feel captured.”, Grechaninov: Riding the Hobby-Horse “the dynamics were good and this was rhythmic with directed phrases.”, Ailbhe McDonagh: Anastasia “The melody was sustained and projected well over sensitive accompanying chords.”, Haydn: Andante “the dynamics were evident and the phrases shaped.”

Summing up the performance “The varying styles were grasped and accurately played with musical communication.”

I would like to thank Alex for his hard work as we finalised the preparation in the lead-up to the exam and also his parents for having confidence in me to teach him.