Piano Principals
Proficiency FAQ's

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Piano Proficiency Exam for Piano Principals:

When is the Proficiency Exam given?

For piano principals, the proficiency is given during the jury in the same semester as the Sophomore Technical. Piano Juries are traditionally scheduled on Thursday of Exam Week. Look for signup sheets on the Piano Bulletin Board.

What happens if I fail the Proficiency Exam?

If you fail one or two parts, come back the next day and retake those parts. If you fail the whole thing, you will have to stand on your head for 2 hours in a tub of dream whip and then be humiliated in public by your peers.

What about restrictions regarding signing up for Senior Recital?

You have to pass the Proficiency Exam before you can sign up for your Senior Recital. There are no such restrictions for the Junior Recital.

If you plan to take the Piano Proficiency Exam the same semester you want sign up for your Senior Recital and you then FAIL the Proficiency Exam, you will have to cancel your reserved recital date and wait until the next semester to reserve a new date.

Do Piano Principals have to Establish a Key and Play Triads and Chords?

No.

Isn't there a PACKET of material associated with the Proficiency Exam?

Yes, a packet of material will be available for you to pick up OUTSIDE DR. LANDES' OFFICE DOOR the day before piano juries. It will contain: (1) melody for harmonization, (2) chord progression for improvisation, (3) example for transposition.

You will be able to find the download link on the Belmont Resources Page.