Solo Performance Tips

The Solo Performance is an essential part of the Leaving Certificate Music practical exam, accounting for a significant portion of the marks. This is your opportunity to showcase your individual skill on your chosen instrument or voice. Below are tips to help you prepare, perform, and excel in your solo performance.

Choosing Your Repertoire

• Select pieces that suit your technical ability and musical strengths.
• Ensure your repertoire meets the syllabus requirements in terms of style and duration.
• Include a variety of pieces to demonstrate a range of skills (e.g., fast and slow, contrasting genres).

Preparation and Practice

• Plan Practice Sessions: Break your pieces into manageable sections and practice regularly.
• Technical Work: Focus on scales, arpeggios, and exercises to build technique.
• Memorisation: Consider memorising your pieces for confidence, but only if it enhances your performance.
• Dynamics and Expression: Pay attention to dynamic markings and phrasing to bring the music to life.
• Practice performing for an audience, such as family or friends, to get comfortable playing under pressure.

Performance Techniques

• Posture and Positioning: Ensure you have the correct posture, whether sitting or standing, to support your technique.
• Warm-Up: Spend 10–15 minutes warming up before your performance to settle nerves and prepare your r instrument or voice.
• Phrasing and Interpretation: Communicate the mood and style of the music by shaping phrases musically.
• Stage Presence: Make eye contact, smile, and show confidence when introducing your pieces.

During the Exam

• Stay Calm: Take a few deep breaths to steady your nerves before beginning.
• Mistakes: If you make a mistake, don't stop—keep going as smoothly as possible.
• Engage the Examiner: Perform as if playing for an audience; express the emotion and energy of the music.
• Finish with Poise: After your final note, take a moment before leaving the stage to show professionalism.

Instrument and Equipment Care

• Ensure your instrument is in excellent condition:
  • Strings tuned, reeds prepared, piano keys cleaned, etc.
  • Vocalists should stay hydrated and warm up their voice properly.
• Bring any necessary accessories, such as sheet music, a music stand, or spare strings/reeds.

Exam Tips Summary

• Choose Wisely: Select a repertoire that showcases your strengths and meets syllabus requirements.
• Practice Strategically: Focus on technique, dynamics, and memorisation to polish your pieces.
• Communicate Emotion: Use phrasing, dynamics, and stage presence to engage the examiner.
• Handle Nerves: Stay calm, and don't let mistakes derail your performance.
• Be Prepared: Ensure your instrument, accessories, and sheet music are ready in advance.