Yamaha Special Junior Advanced Course - Discussion

[Busymom]

Hi radiantmum,


Could you also share what is being tested in the FSS test? My DD would only be taking that next year, but KS me want to find out more. Thanx!

[radiantmum]

Sure. In FSS, you get to select the songs to play, sing, harmonise from JMC course. You will then need to submit you/your kid’s choice of selection in the form prior to FSS. By the way you will need to pay for FSS - can’t remember exact but <$50.


The following skills were tested :-
1. Playing - play 2 repertoire (choice of electone or piano)
2. Reading - Identify & read notes (limited to the pc played earlier)
3. Singing
4. Memory singing
5. Listening - Identify chords (only 1 series)
6. Creating - play own accompaniment/LH chords

There is no fail or pass - it is just an evaluation ie survey of skills learnt during the 1st 2 years. Results were grouped simply as good, solid and excellent.

[honeystar]

I’ve just enrolled my gal to the Yamaha JMC, can anybody share is it a MUST to buy the electone now? A brand new set form Yamaha cost abt $3K+, anywhere if I could get a 2nd hand set? What about the materials like CD and DVD?

[Busymom]

Thanks, radiantmum, for the info. Another 3 questions on the FSS test:


1. Is the test taken on a group or individual basis?
2. Who conducts the test, the teacher of the student or someone else from Yamaha?
3. The two repertoire to be played for the test, could be from any of the 4 books used during the two years?

Sorry for asking so many questions.

[radiantmum]

Hi Busymom, on FSS test


1. Individual
2. There'll be an independent assessor. Own teacher will be present.
3. I believe only book 3 & 4 have repertoire (ie both hands playing) but yes can be selected from any songs learnt from JMC.

Hi Honeystar,

For Yamaha Junior Course, kids are only required to make a choice from electone or piano after Yr 4/JXC. Typically parents are not certain about the sustainability of kids' interest so most would want to buy a reasonable keyboard first (cheaper) before they make the heavier financial commitment. Check out the other threads on piano selection - they have more info / advice from other parents.

2nd hand CD/DVD/materials - I still have mine (all in excellent condition) and if you want to PM me to make a reasonable offer I can perhaps let go

[Busymom]

Thanks very much, radiantmum. This has been most helpful.

[acforfamily]

Hi,

The JSAC students are performing ensemble concert on Friday 11 September. For those who are interested to see what Yamaha higher grade students learn, you should pop in to take a look - it is quite enjoyable.

The concert is free but timing and venue are not out yet. I think your child's Yamaha teachers will be able to give you the details later.

....................................................
http://www.musicbookstrade.blogspot.com/

[acforfamily]

Details are out


Friday 11 September
7 pm
Multi purpose hall
Toa Payoh West Community Centre

....................................................
http://www.musicbookstrade.blogspot.com/

[radiantmum]

Thanks acforfamily. Will mark it on my calendar and try to bring my kiddo there. 7pm timing is tough for working parents - will probably have to leave work early. Looks like JSAC offers quite a number of performance opportunities for students - good exposure in building one’s confidence as well.

[honeystar]

radiantmum:

Hi Busymom, on FSS test


Hi Honeystar,

For Yamaha Junior Course, kids are only required to make a choice from electone or piano after Yr 4/JXC. Typically parents are not certain about the sustainability of kids' interest so most would want to buy a reasonable keyboard first (cheaper) before they make the heavier financial commitment. Check out the other threads on piano selection - they have more info / advice from other parents.

2nd hand CD/DVD/materials - I still have mine (all in excellent condition) and if you want to PM me to make a reasonable offer I can perhaps let go

Thx Radiantmum, has PM U.