The minimum content for a year’s study program for Piano 7 (& 8) is:

(a) A major work such as a large scale sonata from any period or a substantial, internally cohesive work such as Schumann’s Fantasy, Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition or Beethoven’s Variations and Fugue “Eroica”, Op.35.

(b) The remainder of the program should include works in several contrasting styles and from different historical periods. Students are particularly encouraged to include works recently composed and also Australian works. The Australian Music Centre in the Rocks stocks a comprehensive library of Australian music.

This study program must be approved by the student’s teacher.

Students attend one 2-hour workshop each week and perform their set topic works on two separate dates. Other unassessed performances may be requested for special piano activities. Except with the approval of the unit of study coordinator, the performances should not include works studied in previous years. Memorisation of performances is strongly encouraged and highly regarded. Performances other than the set topic works are assessed by staff on a pass/ fail basis and written reports are prepared giving feedback to the student. If the performance is assessed as a failure, students undertake a further performance either of the same work or a different work, in consultation with the Unit of Study Coordinator.

Students attend masterclasses as coordinated by Natalia Ricci. Performance opportunities in masterclasses are negotiated with individual students and teachers on the basis of merit, seniority and availability.

As this is a principal study unit, it is expected that student commitment is at least 20-30 hours per week. This includes individual work and attendance at lessons, workshops, masterclasses, seminars and individual practice/work related to principal study as directed by the coordinator and/or teacher.