Yamaha JMC: Fundamental Skills Survey

The FSS is what your child undertakes after the first two years with Yamaha.

The components are:

• Chord recognition (teacher plays random chords e.g. do-mi-so; child identifies them in solfege)
• Note recognition (teacher points to random notes on the sheet; child identifies them in solfege)
• Impromptu singing (teacher plays short piece; child sings the piece)
• Prepared pieces (child plays two of her favourites from any book; Beth chose Lavenders Blue and Gypsy Dance)
• Prepared singing (child sings her favourite song e.g. La Di Da; Magic Rhythm Time)

Thought Beth did very well overall, except for a few hitches in identifying chords played by the teacher. She carried herself confidently and approached the whole assessment with her usual solemnity.

I got the sense that she rose to the occasion beautifully, which is more than I can claim when I was 7. She relishes the opportunity to prove her ability - especially if she knows she's competent.

In 2010, she moves on to the next course: Junior Extension Course, another 2-year commitment.

Am wondering if she is ready to take on private lessons and AMEB...But that's just the kiasu Singaporean parent talking.