Weakness/Remedies
CANDIDATES’ WEAKNESSES
The following weaknesses were perceptible in the candidates’ scripts:
- Poor knowledge of balance in melody writing
- Poor knowledge of chord progression and cadences
- Poor knowledge of the set works
Candidates did not exhibit a thorough knowledge of balance in melody writing as well as form and modulation to the dominant key. A few who attempted to modulate did not show adequate knowledge in modulation. Steps of notes were in most cases wrongly directed and melodies were shapeless. Also, most candidates did not understand the concept of setting a given text to music.
Candidates also displayed a very poor knowledge of chord progression and cadences. Spacing in parts was poor, more than octave. Notes were written above and below the voice ranges. In addition, some candidates did not make use of the manuscript provided at the back of the answer script for this purpose.
Candidates did not exhibit thorough knowledge of the set musical works.
SUGGESTED REMEDIES TO OVERCOME CANDIDATES’ WEAKNESSES
The solution to these inadequacies is simply for candidates to ensure they prepare adequately for examination by reading relevant textbooks and consulting competent professionals. Candidates should also endeavour to practise with the prescribed set musical works before sitting for examination.