Graded

For the performing arts, the graded syllabuses map for both teachers and pupils the building blocks of and progression in their chosen musical or dance subject. Thus, the grades offer pathways and resources for learners and teachers to help build musical/dance skills, provide goals and encourage progress.

Some of the demands of the grades are similar to that of Western classical music grades, while others reflect the different nature of a particular musical or dance culture and its emphasis on oral tradition. Thus, instead of reading from written scores, the emphasis is given more to ear-training, memorisation and improvisation.

In many World music and dance traditions, there is also an overlap of disciplines, so as the student progresses towards higher grades, they need to have a wider knowledge than just that of their particular subject. It is for this reason the exams include other related musical subjects.

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Certificate

The PRSSV Certificate is a Level 4 qualification. It provides those who have passed Grade 8 with a chance to focus on developing their performance skills. The demands of the certificate compares to a first years study in Higher Education.

A candidate wishing to appear for the Certificate in Performance (Cert. PRSSV (Performance)) must have obtained a pass at Grade 8 (or equivalent) in their subject.

For the PRSSV Certificate in Performance, a candidate will need to perform, answer aural questions and sit a theory examination in accordance with the requirements of the syllabuses.

For the PRSSV Certificate of Teacher Competences (Cert. PRSSV (Teacher)) a candidate will have to be regularly teaching, must be 18 years old and have passed the PRSSV Grade 8 or provide evidence of equivalence. There are three units which cover the various teaching and related skills and knowledge required to train pupils for Level 1, 2 and 3.

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Diploma

The PRSSV Diploma is a Level 5 qualification. This is an accredited professional qualification which can be used as a pathway to further study. The demands of the certificate compares to a second year's study in Higher Education.

A candidate wishing to appear for the PRSSV Diploma in Performance (Dip. PRSSV (Performance)) must have obtained the PRSSV Certificate in Performance to prove their competence in performing and their knowledge of the necessary theory (Level 4).

And they will further be required to provide a video recording of a performance to an invited audience, a programme of music showing their skills as a solo player and as an accompanist. (Pieces should be own choice to be approved by the board).

This should include providing the audience with a spoken explanation of the performance and also the ability to interact with the audience in a professional and a performance fashion. They will also be required to submit the programme notes prepared for this performance.

A candidate wishing to appear for the PRSSV Diploma in Teaching (Dip. PRSSV (Teaching)) must have obtained the PRSSV Certificate of Teacher Competences or equivalent. They will further be required to pass the performance element along with the theory and practise of teaching and related subjects in accordance with the requirements of the syllabuses of this qualification.

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Awards

The PRSSV "World Music Group Performance Awards” provides avenues for students of different music traditions to express the artistic knowledge and understanding gained by learning a particular tradition – be it Indian, West Indian, Chinese, African, Western, etc.

These Awards are a Level 1 qualification in group performance that allows each candidate to shine at their own particular stage but also shows how they can perform as part of a group. Each candidate within a group can qualify at their own stage. There are 4 stages:

Stage 1 – Emerald
Stage 2 – Ruby
Stage 3 – Sapphire
Stage 4 – Diamond

These Awards not only cater for group teaching, but also encourage good and meaningful group performances and individual development, whilst giving credit to students for their ensemble contribution.

Between 2 and 8 participants** can appear in a group for an examination and they can be of ‘mixed talent’ and therefore undertake different stages. Not all performers in a group need to be an examination candidate.

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