Trinity announces reworked Electronic Keyboard syllabus

Trinity Guildhall, one of the leading external examinations boards, has announced their new 2011 Electronic Keyboard & Organ syllabus (Initial – Grade 5).
The 2011 version sees a host of important changes, including brand new repertoire arranged or composed specifically for each exam and covering a broad range of genres. For example – in response to the growing popularity of Indian music and the use of keyboard in the Bollywood industry – Dr Kuljit Bhamra MBE has composed several pieces for the syllabus, bringing his modern and exciting sense of Indian music to the syllabus, without compromising on integrity.
In addition to the refreshed repertoire, the structure of the Technical Work has been simplified. Scale requirements have been specifically designed for the creative and improvisational nature of the Electronic Keyboard, including natural minor, pentatonic and blues scales. Exercises cover important areas of technique for the Electronic Keyboard: arpeggios and chord knowledge; bass clef reading and finger dexterity; and keyboard functions.
Each Grade in the new syllabus encourages creativity and inventiveness through the inclusion of own interpretation and pieces containing elements of improvisation. The inclusion of these pieces in an examination is not obligatory however, enabling candidates to demonstrate their individual strengths – part of the ethos of Trinity Guildhall’s qualifications.
A brand new range of Graded repertoire books is also available now, and each book (Initial – Grade 5) contains the pieces and Technical Work for the grade.
Mark Stringer, Executive Director said: “The revision of the Electronic Keyboard syllabus was long overdue and we have invested a great deal in terms of consultation and development. The 2011 syllabus is tailored specifically to explore and exploit the potential of the instrument and the performer, and there is great scope for flexibility for musicians with different attitudes, strengths and interests. We are confident that the repertoire will prove attractive to both teachers and students. Trinity Guildhall is proud to launch a new Electronic Keyboard syllabus fit for the 21st century.”