Written Exams & Composition
Music students are required to learn written skills. This may lead to written and on-line exams in Theory, Musicianship or Music Craft provided by the Ameb and other exam bodies. These exams are also pre-requisites for higher grades in Practical exams and Diplomas, in order to be awarded the certificates.
Theoretical study provides a foundation for VCE and for Tertiary study in music.
Musicianship
Musicianship is a broad based course of study. Many of Alison's students have gained Honours and Distinctions for exams.The higher grades cover Aural testing which includes Melodic dictation and Rhythmic dictation. General Knowledge is substantial as well as Harmony and theory rudiments. Analysis of compositions of various idioms is also included in the course.
Composition
Students interested in or possessing a flair for composition are guided in their stylistic development.The student is provided with a degree of freedom in exploring styles and ideas, and is encouraged to do so. Parallel to this is the study of the structure and devices of works composed by many great composers such as J.S.Bach, Beethoven and Debussy. The invention and evolution of themes is explored.
In addition there are opportunities to perform original compositions in competitions and various programmes.