The prerequisite qualifications for the IPMA Teaching Certificate are listed as follows:
Minimum Merit result from IPMAGrade 8 Practical examination or Performance Certificate in the same instrument; Or
Minimum Merit result from ABRSM /Trinity / LCM Grade 8 Practical or Digital examination in the same instrument.
The IPMA Teaching Certificate is divided into four parts, all of which must achieve a passing mark in order for the award of successful completion.
Part 1: Sight Reading (25%)
Part 2: Repertoire Analysis (25%)
Part 3: Lesson Plan and Reflections (25%)
Part 4: Live Teaching Demonstration (25%)
Part 1:
Sight Reading (Video Submission)
The Sight Reading part of the exam is a practical assessment of the candidates ability to play a short work at sight with no prior preparation. The level of difficulty is approximately IPMA Grade 5~6, and includes clear melodic and rhythmic details that set a clear and intuitive performance context.
The Candidate is given a brief period (about half a minute) to study or practice the excerpt aloud, and then the actual assessment will begin. The candidate will be marked on fluency of tempo, accuracy of notes, and details in musical expressions.
The candidate is expected to:
Play fluently with a steady rhythmic pulse.
Demonstrate good control of accuracy.
Observe and execute dynamic and articulation details.
Interpret the work with musicality and style.
Part 2:
Repertoire Analysis (Written Submission)
The candidate will be provided in advance a copy of a pre-selected repertoire. The level of difficulty is approximately IPMA Grade 4~5.
The candidate is required to write a 400~500-word document describing the historical or stylistic background of the given musical work. The content should be directly relevant to the work, identify the characteristic features, and guide the reader in a deeper understanding of the context.
The candidate is expected to:
Learn the historical and stylistic background of the work.
Understand the distinctive musical features that are characteristic of the genre.
Analyze the details of the performance practice.
Provide instructions regarding dynamics, articulation, pedaling, and expressions.
Part 3:
Lesson Plan and Reflections (Written Submission)
Based on the musical work provided in Part 2, the candidate is required to write a 700~800 word document that serves as a comprehensive lesson plan. The content should trace the teaching process of the assigned work, include expected progress for each lesson, exercises and tasks, practice methods, and any other relevant details.
A portion of the document should include a reflective piece that describes the efficiency of the teaching methods, the positive/negative aspects of the lessons, and how the candidate’s teaching style has evolved.
The candidate is expected to:
Plan a structured process of learning with expected stages of progress.
Identify the challenges of the work and provide constructive methodologies.
Adjust the teaching style based on the needs of the pupil.
Reflect upon the ways of teaching and further develop the skills in pedagogy.
Part 4:
Live Teaching Demonstration (Video Submission)
The candidate is required to submit a 15~20 minute live video recording (unedited)of a piano lesson which the musical work of Part 2 is being taught. The candidate will assume the role of a“teacher” and the “pupil” is to be arranged by the candidate. The latter can be an actual current student of the candidate or any other person suitable for the role.
In this video lesson, the candidate should demonstrate the ability to explain the musical concepts, resolve any technical challenges, and inspire the student to strive for a more personal interpretation.
The candidate is expected to:
Take command in the instruction of the repertoire.
Be acutely aware of the pupil’s responses and needs.
Explain technical and musical concepts in an effective manner.
Make efficient use of the lesson time.
Overall Marking Scheme
The examination is divided into three sections with their corresponding percentage weightings:
Items
Max. marks
Part 1
Sight Reading
25
Part 2
Repertoire Analysis
25
Part 3
Lesson Plan and Reflections
25
Part 4
Live Teaching Demonstration
25
Total Marks : 100
Total Marks
Attainment level:
Total Marks
Attainment level:
85-100
Distinction
75-84
Merit
60-74
Pass
59
or lower
Below Pass
85-100
Distinction
75-84
Merit
60-74
Pass
59
or lower
Below Pass
Marking Scheme for Each Part
Combined
Maximum Mark:
25
Total Marks
Attainment level:
Combined
Maximum Mark:
25
Total Marks
Attainment level:
22-25
Distinction
19-21
Merit
15-18
Pass
14
or lower
Below Pass
22-25
Distinction
19-21
Merit
15-18
Pass
14
or lower
Below Pass
Copyright 2023 IPMA International Professional Music Education Association Limited