Weakness/Remedies

CANDIDATES’ WEAKNESSES

The following weaknesses were perceptible in the candidates’ scripts:

1. Poor knowledge of balance in melody writing

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.

2. Poor knowledge of chord progression and cadences

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.

3. Poor knowledge of the set works

Candidates did not exhibit thorough knowledge of the set musical works.

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.