Some of you may remember that in October 2006, I started helping/running a local primary school with recorder group. There are 14 children in this group, and are all very enthusiastic, but mixed ability. I have been thinking of trying Music Medals which I have never used before (being a private instrumental teacher, I never had to organise group tuition before...). The trouble is, I don't quite understand how to do this in such a large group. The on-line syllabus/info states that only one candidate per ensemble is assessed. Does this mean that I, as teacher-assessor, must listen to the ensemble piece 14 times? solo 14 times and options 14 times? I guess so... Anyone who is familiar with this system, please confirm this?

Thank you, in advance! hero

Yes, as far as I know that's correct and, of course, there will be 14 videos (or DVDs or whatever medium you use to record them) to put together.

Like you, as a private teacher, I cannot enter candidates but quite a few of my pupils have done them on other instruments and a friend of mine has entered some violinists. They seem to see it as very positive.

Good luck with your candidates.

Thank you, Oboist, for your quick reply. I did not realise that I had to film the assessment procedure!!! Well, I shall have to think very hard about doing this as I am beginner at group teaching... I wonder if it would be easier to prepare some of more able pupils for Prep.Test instead...

I am thinking! hero

Some of the music medals material is really rather fun even if you don't use it for assessment

My pupil is working for the bronze medal. I think it's a good initiative. She's alright with the pieces but I'm sure she puts on this front where she doesn't knowthe difference between a crotchet and a legato! But she knows it! Argh...