One of the most exciting aspects of the Music Medals project is the ensemble repertoire and group-teaching publications that have been commissioned by the Associated Board, helping to enrich the repertoire available for ensembles and group teaching at an early level.
With ensembles now embracing a wider variety of instruments and styles from around the world than ever before, the Associated Board has specially commissioned a series of new works by celebrated composers, including Derek Bourgeois, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, Stephen Dodgson, Barrington Pheloung and Judith Weir. This material has been written specifically for ensemble work, taking into account the issues involved in group teaching.
The Music Medals Ensemble Books feature mixed ability duets, trios and quartets at each of the five Medal levels. In addition to providing materials for the Music Medals assessments, the repertoire books can also be used in the wider teaching and learning context.
The result is an ongoing collection of exciting and attractive new ensemble pieces that will help promote music in schools as a stimulating and rewarding activity, in which all young people can take part and thoroughly enjoy themselves.
Options Practice Books containing specimen Option tests at each of the five Medal levels have been published for several commonly group taught instruments. And there's more on the way!
These books encourage development of sound musicianship skills whilst providing a helpful preparation resource for Music Medals assessments.
For teachers interested in developing their group-teaching skills and knowledge, ABRSM Publishing has also brought out a new handbook for those working in this field - All Together!
With a foreword from celebrated percussionist Evelyn Glennie, All Together! will provide guidance, practical advice and inspiration for all those teaching pupils in groups.