Amy Christensen is a qualified RCM teacher and holds a specialized standing with them as an elementary and intermediate piano teacher. Amy has had many years of experience successfully guiding her students to meet their goals in preparation for their RCM examinations. Please read on below to find out more on what the RCM program has to offer.
Royal Conservatory of Music
The Royal Conservatory was founded in 1886 is one of the largest and most respected music education institutions in the world, providing the definitive standard of excellence in curriculum design, assessment, performance training, teacher certification and arts-based social programs.
The mission of The Royal Conservatory, to develop human potential through leadership in music and the arts, is based on the conviction that the arts are humanity's greatest means to achieve personal growth and social cohesion. The curriculum for the study of music developed by The Conservatory has become Canada's national standard and its broad use has served to bind together the people of the nation with the thread of shared creative experiences.
RCM Examinations
The curriculum of The Royal Conservatory is made available and accessible to students across North America through The Royal Conservatory Examinations Certificate Program. Examinations are conducted four times each year in more than 300 communities through a network of local centres. Each centre has a local Examination Centre Representative whose role is to provide information, assist teachers and students, and ensure a successful examination experience
RCM Certificate Program
The Certificate Program encompasses all levels from beginner to certification as an Associate of The Royal Conservatory (ARCT). The curriculum spans eleven grades and the culminating ARCT diploma level.
Each year, more than 100,000 students across North America participate in the internationally recognized Certificate Program of The Royal Conservatory Examinations.
The Examinations
An examination is intended to be a positive and developmental experience. Practical Examinations are conducted in a friendly and professional atmosphere on a one-on-one basis. Members of the The Royal Conservatory Examinations College of Examiners are chosen not only for their professional qualifications but also for their ability to interact constructively with examination candidates.
Practical Examinations
Practical Examination candidates are tested on the performance of repertoire, studies and technique. Ear training and sight reading requirements help develop and reinforce solid musicianship skills.
Theory Examinations
Theory Examinations, designed to complement practical studies, begin at the Grade 5 practical level and are written in a formal classroom setting. The Royal Conservatory Examinations theory requirements ensure a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of music theory.
The Curriculum
The various syllabi of The Royal Conservatory list the examination requirements for each grade and subject. The unusually broad range of repertoire and studies/etudes:
- includes standard repertoire from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th-century style periods
- provides teachers with a valuable pedagogical resource
- gives students a wide selection
- allows choice of examination programs according to individual musical interests and strengths
Examination requirements are regularly reviewed by leading teachers and musicians to ensure continuing adherence to the high standards of The Royal Conservatory. Syllabi are available at leading music retailers.
RCM Examinations College of Examiners
The Royal Conservatory Examinations College of Examiners is a body of more than 300 distinguished professional teachers and performers, carefully selected for their demonstrated skill and professionalism. Members of the College of Examiners have completed up to three years of initial training and participate in on-going professional development sessions. Members of the College are continually reviewed to ensure consistency with the well-established standards of The Royal Conservatory Examinations.
The Examiner's Evaluation
Each candidate taking a Practical Examination receives a mark and a written evaluation. The Examiner's professional and objective assessment of both strengths and weaknesses is intended to encourage candidates and enhance their continued studies with their teacher.
Marked Theory Examination papers are made available to all candidates online with their results. Teachers are expected to review marked papers with their students in order to ensure a complete learning process before proceeding to the next level.
Please visit http://www.rcmusic.ca/ for more information