Theory Gymnastics | Technic Gymnastics
About Keyboard GymnasticsTM
Keyboard GymnasticsTM is an achievement program for beginning to advanced piano students. The students are tested in 7 areas of study: Theory, Ear-training, Technic, Sight-reading, Performance, Ensemble, and Creative Project. 10 levels of study are included in each area, 17 levels in technic. Students are entered at their individual level in each area, rather than one level across the board. This program is helpful in motivating the student to be at the proper level and to reach their potential in all of these important areas of study.
Students may enter a few or all of the events. Awards and prizes are given for outstanding achievement in each individual event as well as for completing all 7 events with a passing score (7.0 or higher.) Only those who enter all 7 events are eligible for the all-around award and the gold, silver, and bronze medals for their division. Prizes and awards may included cash, gift certificates to music stores, hamburger and ice cream cone certificates, movie passes,a boom box, etc.
The events are planned by the Keyboard GymnasticsTM committee in your teachers group and students pass them off throughout the year. Following are some ideas that have been successful in administering this program:
The first event is the Ensemble event held in the fall. The students are assigned a performance time and perform a duet or concerto on a recital.
The next events are the Creative Project and Sightreading events. These events are held in a winter month on the same day. Students create projects on a music subject which may be displayed or performed. Students receive a list of possible project ideas before the event. Sightreading is only offered at this event, so the students must pass off sightreading at this event.
Technic is an ongoing event--meaning that when a student is ready to pass off a technic level (one of the colored technic sheets in their student notebook) they are instructed to call a technic tester (another teacher in the group) and make an appointment to pass off their technic level. More than one technic level may be passed off during the year. The last day to pass off technic is 2 weeks before the awards ceremony. Technic may also be passed off at the Creative Project event and at the Performance Event.
The performance event is held in the Spring. The students are assigned a performance time and perform two pieces on a recital. Theory and Ear-training tests are given by the teachers in their individual studios.
The awards ceremony is held at the end of May. All students should plan to attend this night and receive their awards. Some of the outstanding performers play their pieces and some of the outstanding creative projects are displayed.
Students may learn the material to pass off all the Keyboard GymnasticsTM Events in group class and/or private lessons.
Fees are determined by the Keyboard GymnasticsTM committee. A discount may be considered for entrance in all 7 events paid at the first of the year. Students entering individual events should pay the fee for that event no later than 2 weeks before each event day for the student to be included in that event.