Make a Tune
Option Two: Make a Tune
Performance Details
Copper and Bronze Levels
A candidate who selects this Option is required to make up a tune on his or her instrument using a given rhythm at a set speed.
At Copper and Bronze levels, candidates have the choice of taking the test by ear or at sight from notation. If taken by ear, the rhythm is clapped following a two-bar count-in. This is repeated a second and third time, after which the candidate is given half a minute to prepare before being asked to play his or her tune.
If taken at sight, candidates are given the notated rhythm, then two bars of the pulse and half a minute of preparation time before being counted in for two bars. Because some teachers use crotchets and quavers first while others use minims and crotchets, the tests at Copper level are written in two versions, from which the Teacher-Assessor chooses.
At Copper and Bronze levels, candidates must use at least three pitches to pass.
Make a Tune assessment criteria>>
Silver, Gold and Platinum Levels
The candidate is required to make up a tune on his or her instrument using a given rhythm and in a specified key. From Silver level, all candidates choosing this test are given the rhythm in notation only. After being given two bars of the pulse, the candidate has half a minute of preparation time before being counted in by the Teacher-Assessor for two bars.
From Silver level, candidates must use at least five pitches to pass.
Make a Tune assessment criteria>>
Keyboard
The Option tests for Keyboard have been designed to support musicianship activities that are relevant to the instrument. As a result, there are certain differences with the Make a Tune tests, and these differences are described below.
Copper and Bronze Levels
The candidate is required to make up a tune on his or her instrument over a given rhythmic groove and in a specified key. The candidate first plays the groove for four bars as written, then repeats it, adding his or her tune.
At Copper level, candidates must use at least three pitches to pass. At Bronze level, candidates must use at least five pitches to pass.
Make a Tune assessment criteria>>
Silver, Gold and Platinum Levels
The candidate is required to make up a tune on his or her instrument in a specified key and in a given style, with auto-accompaniment activated. The candidate first plays a given chord sequence, then repeats it, adding his or her tune.
From Silver level, candidates must use at least five pitches to pass.