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Victoria College of Music and Drama, London

PrincipalDr. Martin Ellerby HonDLitt DMA HonVCM FVCM GLCM LMusLCM FTCL FRSA

Chief ExecutiveRobin Wood HonVCM FVCM FCV FInstSMM ALAM FRSA

Chief ExaminerClaire C. Pashley MA BA(Hons) PGCE HonVCM FVCM LTCL ALCM(TD) FRSA

AdvDip(Open)

Qualifications Manager and Head of of MusicStewart L. Thompson BA(Hons) CT,FVCM FMCM FSCO FIGOC FCollT MNCMSoc ACIEA

Head of Speech & DramaStuart Morrison MA HonVCM FVCM(TD)(Hons) PGCE ALAM ALCM(TD) LVCMEd(Hons) FIfL FRSA

Curriculum SpecialistDr June Fileti PhD MA(Mus)(Open), MEd BA(Hons) CT,FVCM, LMusEdASMC(Hons)

Governing Council:

Founded 1890

71 Queen Victoria Street, LONDON EC4V 4AYT: 020 7405 6483 E: info@vcmexams.com W: Vcmexams@aol.com

Corporate Member of

Member of

Pipe Organ ConsultantStewart L. Thompson

Pipe Organ Syllabus

ABOUT THE VCMVictoria College of Music, London, is an independent body providing examinations in Music, Speech,and Drama subjects. It has held examination sessions throughout the British Isles and certain overseascountries since it was founded in 1890. It no longer operates a full-time teaching institution. The VCMis a corporate member of the Worshipful Company of Musicians, the Music Education Council, theAssociation of Teachers of Singing, the Association of British Choral Directors, the European PianoTeachers Association, the European Recorder Teachers Association, the Society of Recorder Players,the European String Teachers Association the Society of Teachers of Speech & Drama, the NationalAssociation of Music Educators, and is an institutional member of the College of Teachers and abidesby its code of practice.

Further details about Victoria College can be found on our website:www. Vcmexams.com and you can follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

PASS MARKSIntroductory Grades 65%Grades 1 to 8 65%with Merit 80%; with Distinction 90%Merit is shown as “Honours” in IrelandPre-diploma certificate 75% (85% with Honours)Medal examinations 75%Diplomas 75% (85% with Honours)

ABOUT THIS SYLLABUSThe Victoria College of Music, London has held Pipe Organ examinations from its formationin 1890 at Grade and Diploma level. The original organ installed at VCM’s original Londonpremises is still in use at the church of St. Nicholas of Myra in Worth Matravers, Dorset.This syllabus draws upon the past 120 years of tradition and innovation by resurrectingsome pieces used in former years, making use of classic repertoire and new material fromthe forefront of contemporary music.

CHANGES TO SYLLABUSVCM examination requirements do not alter annually, this syllabus is valid for all examinations held betweenthe dates shown on the cover. The current syllabus is that listed on our website.Any changes to the syllabus are announced well in advance in College Noticeboard, the College website,on Facebook and Twitter.

COMPARISONS WITH OTHER EXAMINATION BODIESVCM Grades 1 to 8 are intended to compare on a level for level basis with the grades 1 to 8 of othersimilarly recognised examination boards.In addition to Grades 1 to 8, VCM examinations are available at several introductory levels prior toGrade 1 as a means of encouraging beginners, or students with special needs. Medal and Diplomaexaminations are also available in all subjects. Candidates at all levels receive a written report and, ifsuccessful, a certificate or diploma.

WHICH INSTRUMENT?It is the responsibility of each candidate to provide an instrument adequate for the requirements of theexamination and candidates are at liberty to use a digital instrument if required. Although a cathedralstandard instrument is not expected examiners will comment where a choice of programme is notsuitable for an instrument. As a minimum an instrument should have Great, Swell and Pedalboardwith the usual couplers. For further guidance contact the College.

REGISTRATIONSCandidates are expected to follow suggested registrations wherever possible within the limits of the

instrument they are examined on. Where no guidance is given candidates should make their ownchoice as they deem appropriate and this will be commented upon by the examiner to the candidatesplaying.

WHAT THE EXAMINERS ARE LOOKING FORExaminers are looking for a combination of skill, knowledge and understanding. Questions are asked ina manner which assesses the candidate’s depth of understanding, not merely the ability to repeatdefinitions. Ingenuity, variety, musicianship, and a sense of style are rewarded, as well as technical skilland musical accuracy.

OWN COMPOSITIONS Candidates for Grades 1 to 8 may sing or play their own compositions in lieu ofMusicianship Tests. Further guidance is set out in Crazy Composing available fromwww.vcmpublications.co.uk

REGULATIONSAll entries are accepted on the conditions laid down in General Regulations and Information, a copy ofwhich is available free of charge. It is also on our website: www.vcmexams.com

ENTRY FORMSAll grades and medal examinations can be entered on white entry forms with no more than ten candidateson a page. Please use the code PO in the column headed “subject” and the letter(s) or numbers in the“grade No.” column.

QUESTIONSQuestions are based principally on the music performed; but in addition examiners are at liberty to askquestions on notes, rests, musical terms and signs, key and time-signatures, according to the Grade.Also specifically on minor keys; perfect, major, and minor intervals (Grade 3 upwards). Singers areexpected to have a similar level of knowledge of signs, terms, etc. in the printed music as an instrumentalcandidate.

SIGHT READINGSight Reading tests are included from Preparatory level upwards. The relative standard will be that ofapproximately two grades below the grade being taken. Examiners will be at liberty to discuss the SightReading Test with candidates as part of the Questions.

PIECESCandidates are required to prepare the specified number of pieces in all examinations. In all examinationseach piece being performed should be written by a different composer. Examiners are at liberty to stopthe candidate at any point or to request repeats etc. to be omitted.

EXERCISESAll Introductory Grades require two exercises.

MEDAL EXAMINATIONSSuccessful candidates at medal examinations receive a certificate and a medal order form. Prices ofmedals are shown on the medal order form. Medals are supplied in boxes and are engraved with thecandidate’s name, subject of examination and the year. Medal awards do not entitle holders to put lettersafter their names.

MEDLEYS & OWN CHOICESWhere examination requirements include medleys or own choices, a second copy of the score must beprovided for the examiner. A time limit of two to three minutes for an own choice is sufficient. At all levels,the examiners may penalise an option clearly chosen for its comparative ease.

DISSERTATIONSWhere dissertations are required, these must be submitted with the entry form.Separate or late submission is not permitted. Dissertations should be on plain white A4 paper, legiblywritten, typed or word processed. No binding is needed. All dissertations should contain a bibliographyand contents page. For more guidance see Essay Writing for the Victoria College Teaching Diplomaspublished by LMP.

PHOTOCOPIESAll VCM and LMP publications are copyright. Photocopying of LMP publications is not permissible andcandidates using unauthorised photocopies at examinations will be disqualified. It is acceptable,however, to use a photocopy for the second copy when the syllabus requires one to be handed to theexaminer, provided the original is also brought to the examination. It is also acceptable to use photocopiesof parts of long pieces to avoid awkward page turns, again provided the original is also brought to theexamination.

EXEMPTION FROM QUESTIONS AT PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONSCandidates who have passed certain VCM Theoretical Examinations are entitled to claim full marks forquestions at Practical Examinations as follows:

VCM Grade 1 Theory exempts up to and including Preliminary PracticalVCM Grade 1A Theory exempts up to and including Grade 1 PracticalVCM Grade 2 Theory exempts up to and including Grade 3 and JBM PracticalVCM Grade 3 Theory exempts up to and including Grade 5 and JSM PracticalVCM Grade 4 Theory exempts up to and including Grade 7 and SM Practical

In all such cases the theory result or certificate must be produced for the Examiner at the beginningof the practical examination. Examiners do not take it amiss if reminded not to ask questions if theyhave been shown a qualifying Theory pass..

MEMORYPerforming from memory is not compulsory at any level. However, it is encouraged and will be rewarded

LONDON MUSIC PRESS (LMP) Publicationsavailable on-line post free from

www.vcmpublications.co.ukThey can also be ordered by post: an order form is available on request.

CRAZY COMPOSINGCrazy Composing is a step by step guide for teachers and pupils wishing to perform an Own Compositionin lieu of Musicianship Tests.

SPECIMEN MUSICIANSHIP TESTSSpecimen musicianship tests are available showing the type of tests examiners will set.

SPECIMEN SIGHT READINGSpecimen Sight Singing tests are available showing the type of tests examiners will set.

Non-LONDON MUSIC PRESS (LMP) PublicationsSome of the pieces set in the syllabus include options that are published by commercial publishers.These maybe obtained on-line at sites such as www.musicroom.com or in most good book shops.

Where early and pre-20th century works are prescribed the edition listed is a known available copy butother editions of the same work maybe substituted if agreed in advance with the College. Second handand out of print music can be purchased on www.amazon.co.uk or www.ebay.co.uk. Certain out of copyrightpieces maybe obtained for free from www.imlsp.org.

Demonstrations of many set works maybe found on www.youtube.com but please be aware that thequality of performance is variable.

London Music Pressthe College’s own in-house publisher.

LMP exists to provide an inexpensive method for candidates toobtain set pieces for examinations at economical prices.

All LMP publications are guaranteed to remain available in print forthe duration of the syllabus

LMP publications are available to order on-line atwww.vcmpublications.co.uk

All orders are despatched post free worldwide

Discounts for quantity..

All LMP publications are guaranteed to remain available in print forthe duration of the syllabus

Other VCM Syllabuses for keyboard include

Church MusicianshipTraditional Piano

Contemporary PianoPiano Duet

HarpsichordElectronic Organ

Electronic Keyboard

plus a wide range of other Music, Speech and Drama subjects.www.vcmexams.com

Copies of all syllabuses are available free of charge or can be downloaded from the VCM website at

A -First Stepsin Pipe Organ

Exercises (20 Marks)First Steps Pipe Organ Playing LMPManual ExercisePedal Exercise

Scalework (10 marks)C major separate hands, one octave manuals only.

Solo Pieces (60 marks)To play any two of the following:

First Steps Organ Playing LMPBeethoven: Ode To JoyThompson: Voluntary in C

A suitable own choice piece

Questions (10 marks)

B -PreliminaryPipe Organ

Exercises (20 Marks)Preliminary Pipe Organ Playing LMPManual Exercise 1Pedal Exercise

Scalework (10 marks)D and F major separate hands, one octave, manuals only.

Preliminary Pipe Organ Playing LMPArr. Sammons: Swiss Folk SongThompson: Aria

C- PreparatoryPipe Organ

Exercises (20 Marks)Preparatory Pipe Organ Playing LMPManual ExercisePedal Exercise

Scalework (10 marks)G and F major separate hands, one octave, manuals only.C major, one octave pedals only

Preparatory Pipe Organ Playing LMPReata: CarillonThompson: March in G

Sight Reading (10 marks)

D - Advanced Preparatory Pipe Organ

Exercises (20 Marks)Advanced Preparatory Pipe Organ Playing LMPManual ExercisePedal Exercise

Scalework (10 marks)Bb and F major separate hands, one octave, manuals only.D major, one octave pedals only

Advanced Preparatory Pipe Organ Playing LMPHandel: MinuetReata: Jubilate

These introductory examinations should be shown on entry forms in the Grade column as simplyA, B, C or D as appropriate

Introductory Examinations

PO ASUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

SUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

Grade One Pipe OrganSolo Pieces (60 marks)To play three pieces, one from each list:

List AOrgan Music for Manuals Vol.3 De HaskeBoyvin: Duo de Troiseme TomPachelbel: FugaTelemann: O Lamm Gottes Unschldig

Wedding Album for Manuals Ed. Trevor FentonePurcell: Minuet

List BOrgan Music for Manuals Vol.3 De HaskeLizst: Offertorium (Missa pro Organo)

Easy Organ Pieces from 19th Century Vol.3 BarenreiterRinck: Andante

Music for Pipe Organ LMPMansfield: Prelude in FMendelssohn: Slow march from the Italian Symphony

List C

A Graded Anthology Vol.2 CramerPeeters: Miniature Op.55

Music for Pipe Organ LMPSibelius: Finlandia

Play The Organ NovelloAny from page 61 or page 62

A suitable own choice appropriate to the grade composed since 1900.

Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: A and Eb majors 2 octaves

B major 1 octaveC#, F, C and B minor 2 octavesChromatic scale on D 1 octave

Pedals: Eb major 1 octaveF and C# minor 1 octave

Sight Reading (10 marks)A simple hymn tune, manuals only

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)a) Musicianship TestsTest 1: To clap a rhythm in 2/4 time. 2 bars in length, played twice by the examiner.Test 2: To identify any note in the arpeggio C/E/G/C', Middle C being givenTest 3: To echo a five-note phrase played twice by the examiner.

b) Own compositionPerform an own composition of about 8 bars in the key of C major. It should be balanced as an opening 4-bar phrase whichforms a “question” and a 4-bar phrase that forms an “answer”

SUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

Grade Two Pipe Organ

Solo Pieces (60 marks)To play three pieces, one from each list:

List AA Graded Anthology Vol.2 CramerPachelbel: Fugue in CStanley: Trumpet Voluntary in D

Wedding Album for Manuals Ed. Trevor FentoneStanley: Voluntary in G

Music for Pipe Organ LMPJ.S. Bach: Prelude No.3 in E minor BWV 555

List BA Graded Anthology Vol.2 CramerRene Vierne: Interlude No.1 in A minorMozart: Thema in C K.383c

Music for Pipe Organ LMPTchaikovsky: Theme from Pathetique Symphony

Easy Organ Pieces from 19th Century Vol.2 BarenreiterLitzau: Praeludium in C moll

List CA Graded Anthology Vol.2 CramerPeeters: PraeludiumWalcha: Zu Bethlehem Geboren

Preludes, Interludes and Postludes MayhewRidout: Chant No.2

Music for Pipe Organ LMPSammons: Valse Petite

Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: G, D, A and Bb majors 2 octaves

A and D minors 2 octavesChromatic on C 1 octave

Pedals: A, F and Bb major 1 octaveA and G minor 1 octave

Sight Reading (10 marks)A simple hymn tune with bass in the pedals

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)a) Musicianship TestsTest 4: To clap a rhythm in 2/4 time. 2 bars in length, played twice by the examiner.Test 5: To identify any note C to G, played from CTest 6: To hum, play or sing a group of 5 or 6 notes played twice by the examiner, and to complete the phrase by adding onenote

b) Own compositionPerform an own composition of about 16 bars in the key of C, G or F major. It should be balanced as an opening 4-barphrase which forms a “question” , a 4-bar phrase that forms an “answer”, a repeat of the opening 4-bar phrase, and a second“answering” phrase

PO 2Show on entry form asSUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

Grade Three Pipe Organ

List AComplete Organ works BarenreiterJ.S. Bach: Fugue in A minor BWV 559 or

Fugue in G major BWV 557 (Novello)Da Jesus au dem Kreuze Stund BWV 621

10 Organ Voluntaries Op.5 PetersStanley: No.VIII in D minor movement 1

List BA Graded Anthology Vol.3 CramerFranck: Vieux NoelFischer: Praeludium No.10 in FGuilmant: Duo PastoraleAdams: Fugue from Voluntary No.1 in Bb

Music for Pipe Organ LMPSchubert: German Dance Op.33 No.7

List CA Graded Anthology Vol.3 CramerMoore: Prelude

Canticle of The Rose MayhewRidout: Father

Oxford Book of Christmas Organ Music OUPWalcha: Choral Prelude on Den die Hirten lobten sehre

Music for Pipe Organ LMPThompson: Prelude on Eventide

A suitable own choice appropriate to the grade composed since 1900.Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: A and Eb majors 2 octaves

B major 1 octaveC#, F, C and B minor 2 octavesChromatic scale on D 1 octave

Pedals: Eb major 1 octaveF and C# minor 1 octave

Sight Reading (10 marks)A simple hymn tune, bass in the pedals, alto and tenor to be played in the left hand

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)a) Musicianship TestsTest 7: To clap a rhythm in 2/4 or 3/4 time, 2 bars, played twice by the examiner and identify the time as 2/4 or 3/4Test 8: To identify any note(s) in the chords of C, G, or F, played from the root note.Test 9: To hum, sing or whistle a group of 5 or 6 notes played twice by the examiner, and then to complete the phrase byadding two or three notes.

b) Own compositionPerform an own composition in simple binary form in the key of C, G , F , D or B flat major.

Show on entry form asSUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

Junior Bronze Medalin Pipe Organ

Solo Pieces (80 Marks)

Candidates must prepare and perform FOUR pieces in all:

1. Three pieces from the Grade 3 list2. One Own Choice Piece of Grade 3 standard or

above and not in the Grade 3 lists.

PO JBM

There are no Scales, Arpeggios, Musicianship Tests or Composition requirements at VCMMedal exams

Junior Silver Medalin Pipe Organ

PO JSM

Grade Four Pipe OrganSolo Pieces (60 marks)To play three pieces, one from each list:

List A8 Short Preludes and Fugues NovelloJ.S. Bach: Prelude in F or

Prelude in E minorJ.S. Bach Fugue in C major BWV 553 Any edition

Graded Anthology for Organ Vol.4 CramerKirchhoff: Chorale Prelude “Herzlich lieb has ich dich, O Herr”

10 Organ Voluntaries Op.5 PetersWesley: Gavotte

List BThe Complete Shorter Organ Music OUPWhitlock: No.3 from Five Short Pieces

Graded Anthology for Organ Vol.4 CramerGuilmant: Allegro No.2 Op.41De Severac: Versat No.4

Music for Pipe Organ LMPHaydn: Theme from the Emperor Quartet

Miniatures Vol.2 De HaskeElgar: Andantino Op.14 No.3

List C14 Stations of the Cross Kevin MayhewRidout: Jesus meets His Blessed MotherRidout: Jesus speaks to the women of Jerusalem

Fanfare and Interlude Spartan Press TKM106Tim Knight

Graded Anthology for Organ Vol.4 CramerJirak: Prelude No.3

Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: A, E, B and Bb majors 2 octaves

E, B, G and C minor 2 octavesChromatic scale on F 1 octave

Pedals: G, E and Eb major 1 octaveC and B minor 1 octave

Sight Reading (10 marks) An easy piece for manual and pedals on two staves

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)a) Musicianship TestsTest 10: To clap a rhythm in 2/4, 3/4 or 4/4 time played twice by the examiner, to state the time and then to identify themelody as major or minor.Test 11: To identify triads as major or minor and then to name the notes in them, the root being named by the examiner.Test 12: To hum, sing or whistle a group of notes- 2 bars - played by the examiner, and then tocomplete the melody by adding 4 or 5 notes.b) Own compositionPerform an own composition in simple binary form in the key of D or B flat major, including a modulation to a related key.

Grade Five Pipe OrganSolo Pieces (60 marks)To play three pieces, one from each list:

List A8 Short Preludes and Fugues NovelloJ.S. Bach: Prelude and Fugue in Bb or

Prelude and Fugue in C major

Orgelbuchlein Any editionJ.S. Bach: Preludes BWV 621, 625 or 643

Toccata and Fugue in F Peters 11383Buxtehude: Toccata (only)

10 Organ Voluntaries Op.6 Any editionStanley: Andante Largo (Trumpet Tune)

The Progressive Organist Book 3 NovelloCoehlo: Ave Maris Stella

List BOrgan Music of John Ireland NovelloIreland: Sursum Corda

Sonata in D Op.65 PetersMendelssohn:2nd or final movement

Graded Anthology for Organ Vol.5 CramerGuilmant: Sonata No.3 Op.56 Mvt.2Rheinberger: Meditation

Elegy NovelloThalben Ball

List C14 Stations of the Cross Kevin MayhewRidout: Jesus Receives the Cross

Intermezzo Spartan Press TKM107Tim Knight

Festal Entrance Spartan Press TKM111Tim Knight

Thanksgiving and Remembrance MayhewRawsthorne: Aria

Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: All major and minor keys upto 4 sharps

and flats, 2 octaves similar motion. Ab and Eb major contrary motion 2 octavesChromatic scales on Ab and B

Pedals: All major and minor keys upto 4 sharps andFlats, 1 octave, staccato only

Sight Reading (10 marks) An easy solo on three staves

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)

a) Musicianship TestsTest 13: To clap a rhythm in 3/4, 4/4 or 6/8 time - 2 bars -played twice by the examiner, and to state the time, andthen to say if the melody is in a major or minor key.Test 14: To identify triads as major, minor, or diminished; andthen to name the notes in them, the root note being namedby the examiner.Test 15: To hum, sing or whistle a two bar phrase playedtwice by the examiner, and then to continue with an answeringtwo bar phrase.

b) Own compositionPerform an own composition in simple ternary form in a keyof up to and including 3 sharps or 3 flats, including amodulation to a related key.

Grade Six Pipe Organ

List ABach Organ Works NovelloJ.S. Bach: Meine Seele erhebt den Herren BWV 648J.S. Bach: Trio Sonata in D minor BWV 527

2nd movementJ.S. Bach: Heut triumphieret Gottes Sohn BWV 630

Organ Works HansenBuxtehude: Praludium & Fuga in GBuxtehude: Ein Feste Berg is unser Gott

The Progressive Organist Book 4 NovelloPaix: Phantasia Primi Toni

List BFour Sketches OUPSchumann: Sketch in C Op.58 No.2

Sonata No.6 PetersMendelssohn:Fugue

Sonata No.2 PetersMendelssohn:Final Movement

6 Short Preludes and Postludes Stainer and BellStanford: No.2 in G

7 Choral Preludes Set 1 NovelloParry: Chorale Prelude on Rockingham

Suite Gothique CramerBoellmann: MenuetBoellmann: Priere a Notre Dame

The Progressive Organist Book 2 NovelloRheinberger:Fughetta in E flat

The Progressive Organist Book 3 NovelloGade: Allegretto

List C14 Stations of the Cross Kevin MayhewRidout: Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus orRidout: Jesus Falls the third time

In Memoriam Spartan Press TKM112Tim Knight

Thanksgiving and Remembrance MayhewRawsthorne: Sortie on Jesus Christ Is Risen Today

3 Preludes on Welsh Hymn Tunes Stainer and BellVaughan Williams: Hyfrydol

Sonata No.2 SchottHindemith: Second Movement

La Nativite du Seigneur LeducMessian: No.2 Les Bergers

The Progressive Organist Book 3 NovelloTrevor: Pastorale on Stuttgart

A suitable own choice appropriate to the grade composedsince 1900.

Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: All major and minor keys upto 5 sharps

and flats, 2 octaves,B and A majors, F minor contrary motionDominant 7ths in all keys upto 2 sharpsand flats

Pedals: All major and minor keys upto 4 sharpsand flats, 1 octave

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)a) Musicianship TestsTest 16: To clap a rhythm in 4/4, 6/8, or 9/8 time - 2 or 3 bars,played twice by the examiner, to state the time and then toidentify whether the phrase is in a major or minor key.Test 17: To identify any type of triad, and then to name thenotes in them, the root note having been named by theexaminer.Test 18: To hum, sing or whistle 3 or 4 bars played twice bythe examiner, and then to continue by adding an answeringphrase.Test 19: To identify a cadence as Perfect or Plagal.

b) Own compositionPerform an own composition in variation form to the theme ofTwinkle Twinkle Little Star or your own choice of theme. Itshould have balanced phrases and move to at least two relatedkeys.

Grade SevenPipe Organ

List ABach Organ Works NovelloJ.S. Bach: Ach bleibbei uns, Herr Jesu Christ BWV 649J.S. Bach: Prelude & Fugue in C minor BWV 549J.S. Bach: Fantasia in C minor BWV 562

Organ Works HansenBuxtehude: Chorale Prelude on Ein Feste BurgBuxtehude: Ciacona in E minor

The Progressive Organist Book 4 NovelloBuxtehude: Prelude from the Te Deum LaudamusTelemann: Fugue No.7

List BThree Pieces for Organ NovelloBridge: Adagio in E

Prelude Fugue and Variation Op.18 UMPFranck: Complete

Sonata in Bb Op.65 NovelloMendelssohn:Allegretto

5 Short Pieces OUPWhitlock: No.2 in A

7 Choral Preludes Set 2 NovelloParry: Chorale Prelude on Eventide

Six Interludes on Christmas Carols NovelloLloyd Webber: 1 or 5

The Progressive Organist Book 4 NovelloMerkel: Prelude Op.21 No.3

List CElegy Spartan Press TKM104Tim Knight

March Prelude LMPMartin Ellerby

A Matthias Organ Album OUPMatthias: Processional

Easy Modern Organ Music OUPHoddinott: Intrada

Sonata No.2 SchottHindemith: First Movement

La Nativite du Seigneur LeducMessian: Les Enfants de Dieu

Preludio al Vespro di Monteverdi SchottTippett

A suitable own choice appropriate to the grade composedpost-1900.

Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: All major and minor keys , 2 octaves.

D, Db and Eb majors, Eb minor contrary motionDominant 7ths in all keys upto 3 sharpsand flats

Pedals: All major and minor keys ,1 octave legato andstaccatoChromatic starting on F, 1 octave staccato

Sight Reading (10 marks)A 16 bar hymn tune manuals only to be transposed up ordown a semitone at the examiners request.

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)a) Musicianship TestsTest 20: To clap a rhythm in 3/4, 6/8, 9/8 or 5/4 time, for 3 or4 bars, played twice by the examiner, to identify thetime and then to identify whether the phrase is in a major orminor key.Test 21: To hum, sing or whistle a group of 3 or 4 bars, playedtwice by the examiner, and then to complete by adding ananswering phrase of 3 or 4 bars.Test 22: To identify triads, played in any position, and then toname the notes in them, the root note being given by theexaminer.Test 23: To identify a cadence as Perfect or Interrupted.Test 24: To name the notes in any supertonic triad (majorkeys only), the Tonic chord having been played and namedby the examiner..

b) Own compositionPerform an own composition in Sonata form. It should havebalanced phrases and move to at least two related keys.

Bronze Medalin Pipe Organ

Questions (8 marks)

Silver Medal inPipe Organ

1. Three pieces from the Grade 6 list2. One Own Choice Piece of Grade 5 or 6 standard or

There are no Scales, Arpeggios, Musicianship Tests or Composition requirements at VCM Medalexams

Grade Eight Pipe OrganCandidates must pass or have passed VCM Grade IV Theory of Music - or hold a certificate of exemption - before the Grade 8practical certificate is awarded.

List ABach Organ Works NovelloJ.S. Bach: Fugue in D minor (The Giant) BWV 680J.S. Bach: Fugue in B minor BWV 579J.S. Bach: Trio Sonata in Eb 1st movement BWV 525

Organ Works HansenBuxtehude: Praeludium in CBuxtehude: Toccata in F (complete)

The Progressive Organist Book 5 NovelloBestel: Allein zu dir, Herr Jesu ChristKittel: Praludium

List BOrgan Music of John Ireland NovelloIreland: Meditation on John Kebles Rogationtide HymnIreland: Vilualla

Chorale No.3 in A minor Any editionFranck

Suite Gothique UMPBoellmann: 4th movement

Plymouth Suite OUPWhitlock: Toccata from Plymouth Suite

Allegro Marziale Boosey and HawkesBridge

Four Sketches OUPSchumann: Any one except No. 2

3 Psalm Preludes NovelloHowells: No.3

Complete works Vol.2 BarenreiterMendelssohn: Sonata No.3 in A 1st movement

List CFive Modern Organ Pieces Spartan PressMcCabe: Prelude

10 Organ Chorales SchottFlor Peeters: Op.39 No.9 or 10

A Matthias Organ Album OUPMatthias: Toccata Giocosa

Prelude and Fugue on A Theme of Vittoria Boosey andHawkesBritten

Sonata No.1 SchottHindemith: First Movement

La Nativite du Seigneur LeducMessian: Vesseins Eternal

A suitable own choice appropriate to the grade composedpost-1900.

Scalework (10 marks)Manuals: All major and minor keys 2 octaves.

Chromatic scale on any note 2 octavesDominant 7th in any key, 2 octaves, similarmotionDiminished 7th on any note, 2 octaves, similarmotionChromatic contrary motion on C, D and Eb 2octaves

Pedals: All major and minor keys 1 octaveChromatic scale on any note 1 octaveDominant sevenths in any key, 1 octave

Sight Reading (10 marks)A hymn tune on the manuals and pedals to be transposedup or down a semitone at the examiners request.

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)a) Musicianship TestsTest 25: To clap a rhythm in 2/2, 6/8, 5/4, or 7/8 time - fourbars played twice by the examiner, to identify the time-signature, and to say if the melody is in a major or minorkey.Test 26: To hum, sing or whistle a 4-bar phrase played twiceby the examiner, and then continue for 4 further bars with ananswering phrase, not necessarily in sequence.Test 27: To identify triads as major, minor, diminished oraugmented, and to name the notes in them, the root notebeing given by the examiner.Test 20: To identify a cadence as Perfect or Imperfect.Test 29: To name the notes in a mediant triad in a major key,and the tonic chords having been played and named by theexaminer.

b) Own compositionPerform an own composition in Rondo form. It should havebalanced phrases and move to at least two related keys.

Gold Medal in Pipe Organ

Entry for the Gold Medal is restricted to those who have already passed the Silver Medal in a keyboard subject.

Candidates must present a balanced programme of their own choice of five solos. The programme must show a range ofstyles. The standard of difficulty should be suitable for this level of examination. (90 marks)

IntroductionsCandidates should be able to introduce their programmes as to a live audience. Examiners will expect to be treated as anaudience and addressed accordingly. Introductions should be interesting and show some variety. Style can be that of acompere and performer and it is recommended that candidates study these techniques at a live performance or TV or radioshow.

DeportmentExaminers will take into account general presentation of the solos, deportment, style, facial expression and sincerity.Examiners will expect candidates to dress as if they are performing in a public recital. A confident businesslike approach islooked for. Credit will be given for effort in presentation, but not for the quality or sophistication of the resources available tothe candidate.

PaperworkThe candidate should present the examiner with a concert programme. It should include:· A front cover showing the name of the candidate· A list of the pieces performed· Copies of the scores of the pieces performed (photocopies are permitted but will be destroyed after the examination)· A short summary about the pieces performed

Discussion (10 marks)

Candidates for the Platinum Medal must have previously passed the Gold Medal in the samesubject

Candidates must present a balanced programme of their own choice of five solos (90 marks)The solos should include the following:(A) A piece by J.S. Bach(B) A piece by an English Baroque Composer(C) A Piece by a Classical Composer(D) A piece from 19th Century Romantic Tradition(E) A piece composed post-1900

IntroductionsThe standard expected is that of an amateur performance at a live local charity recital. Candidates should be able tointroduce their programmes as to a live audience. Examiners will expect to be treated as an audience and addressedaccordingly. Introductions should be interesting and show some variety. Style can be that of a compere/performer and it isrecommended that candidates study these techniques at a live performance or TV or radio show.

DeportmentExaminers will take into account general presentation of the solos, deportment, style, facial expression and sincerity.Examiners will expect candidates to dress as if they are performing in a public recital. A confident professional approach islooked for. Credit will be given for effort in presentation, but not for the quality or sophistication of the resources available tothe candidate.

PaperworkThe candidate should present the examiner with a concert programme. It should include:· A front cover showing the name of the candidate· A list of the pieces performed· Copies of the scores of the pieces performed (photocopies are permitted but will be destroyed after the examination)· A short summary about the pieces performed

Discussion (10 marks)

Platinum Medal in Pipe Organ

Diploma in Pipe Organ Playing DipVCM

Entry should be made on pink diploma entry form. This diploma is available to candidates of anyage. Successful candidates receive a diploma and are entitled to wear the appropriate academicalrobes.

PAPERWORKCandidates for DipVCM must pass Victoria College of Music Grade V Theory of Music before theDiploma certificate is awarded. Candidates who can produce evidence of having passed GCSE in Musicor equivalent may apply for exemption from the Theory requirement.

Part One Performance (80 marks)To Play Two Solos drawn from the Associate lists. In the case of a major work only one movement isrequired.

To Play One Solo drawn from the Grade 8 List

To Play One Own Choice piece of a suitable standard which may be an own composition.

Part Two Sight Reading (10 marks)Candidates are required to perform and answer questions on an unseen test after a few moments perusal.

Pass mark 75; with Honours 85

Diplomas in Pipe Organ Playing

Successful candidates in Diploma examinations receive an A3-sized diploma of a design little changedfrom 1890, along with the examiner’s report and an authorisation to purchase the appropriate academicalrobes.

All correspondence and payment for academical robes must be addressed directly to the officialRobemakers Knights of Castle Cary, Knights Yard, Castle Cary, BA7 7AW.

RobesDiploma (DipVCM):A black gown of bachelors style and rigid black square hat with tassel.

Associate (AVCM, AMusVCM):A hood of Oxford simple shape in royal blue lined light blue, a black gown of Cambridge bachelor stylewith ½ inch blue ribbon on the facings and rigid black square hat with tassel.

Licentiate (LVCM, LMusVCM):A hood of Oxford simple shape in royal blue lined scarlet, a black gown of Cambridge bachelor style with½ inch of scarlet ribbon on the facings and rigid black square hat with tassel.

Fellowship (FVCM):A hood of Oxford simple shape in royal blue lined scarlet edged with white binding, a black gown ofCambridge bachelor style with 1 inch of scarlet ribbon on the facings and rigid black square hat withtassel.

Associate Diploma (AVCM)Syllabus I Performers Diploma

Solo Pieces (60 marks)All movements of a set work are required to be performed

unless stated otherwise.To perform three items, one from each list:

List AJ.S. Bach: Fugue On A Theme by Corelli BWV 579J.S. Bach: Trio Sonata No.1 in Eb BWV 525 1st movementJ.S. Bach: Prelude and Fugue BWV 536J.S. Bach: Fugue in C BWV 545

List BMendelssohn: Organ Sonata No.1 movement 1Mendelssohn: Prelude and Fugue in G Op.37 No.2Guilmant: Allegretto in B minorBoellmann: Toccata from Suite GothiqueRheinberger: Sonata in D minor Op.148 1st movement

List CElgar: Sonata in G Op.23 3rd movementMcCabe: Nocturne Modern Organ Music OUPHowells: Three Psalm Preludes Set 2 No.1 NovelloMessian: Joie et Clarte des Corps Glorieux Les Corps

Glorieux Part 3 LeducHindemith: Sonata No.1 final movement Schott

Transposition (20 marks)Transposition of an unseen 4-part Hymn by one semitone upor down as requested.

Questions (10 marks)On all matters relating to the performance including selectionof repertoire, technical issues, choice of registrations etc.will be asked.

Sight Reading (10 marks)One of:1. A short solo passage for full organ. No registrationinformation will be given and the candidate must selectappropriately to the instrument.2. A short improvisation on a given hymn tune. A 4-8 barintroduction, 16 bar central section and 8-16 bar coda mustbe included. The hymn does not require to be played in full.

Associate Diploma (AVCM)Syllabus II Recitalists DiplomaAs outlined under Syllabus I above, except that, instead ofTransposition, an own choice solo is to be performed inaddition.

Candidates for AVCM must pass Victoria College of Music Grade V Theory of Music, which includessimple harmony: i.e. chords and cadences. The writing of sequences of chords is not required. SeeTheory syllabus for details. Candidates who can produce evidence of having passed GCSE in Musicor equivalent may apply for exemption from the Theory requirement.

Associate Diploma (AVCM(TD))Syllabus IIITeaching of Pipe Organ PlayingThis is an initial Teacher’s Diploma for those with someexperience of teaching at the lower grades and who intend tostudy further for teaching qualificationsCandidates must submit with their entry ONE of thefollowing:(a) A Folio showing work and notes for a 10-weekterm of lessons for ONE of these categories: 1. The youngbeginner 2. The teenage beginner 3. The adultbeginner(b) A 25 minute DVD of themselves teaching any pupil atany level from Grade 1 to Grade 5. Approximately 15 minutesshould show work on at least one repertoire or examinationpiece, and approximately 10 minutes should work on TWOother aspects of Teaching the instrument, such as SightReading, Aural Training, Scales/Arpeggios etc.

PERFORMING SECTION (40 Marks)To play TWO pieces by DIFFERENT composers, from theAVCM Syllabus I list (one of which may be an own choice)

TEACHING SECTION (50 Marks)The candidate is to present TWO contrasted pieces byDIFFERENT composers from the VCM Grade Examinationlists for this instrument, as followsONE piece from the Grade 1-3 lists;ONE piece from Grades 4-5. The candidate must be able to demonstrate/discuss theteaching of these pieces to examination readiness, to explainthe difficulties likely to be encountered by the pupil, and tosuggest ways of overcoming these problems.The examiner may request extracts or completeperformances of the chosen pieces, and the candidate’splaying of them WILL BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT whenarriving at the mark for this section.

The candidate must be able to demonstrate/discuss theteaching of Scalework as set for up to Grade 5.

The examiner may also play extracts from the chosen pieces,with errors for the candidate to identify and correct, andquestions may also be asked on the teaching of the piecespresented in the PERFORMING SECTION, on teachingmatters generally, points arising from the Folio/DVD, andsuch aspects of an “unseen” piece, as tempo,phrasing,expression marks, fingering etc.

PERFORMING SECTION (40 Marks)

SIGHT READING (10 Marks)

Associate Diploma in Pipe Organ Playing AVCM

Licentiate Diploma (LVCM)Syllabus I Performers DiplomaSolo Pieces (60 marks)All movements of a set work are required to be performed

unless stated otherwise.To perform three items, one from each list:

List AJ.S. Bach: Concerto in A minor BWV 593J.S. Bach: Prelude and Fugue in C BWV 547J.S. Bach: Choral Prelude BWV 627

List BMendelssohn: Organ Sonata No. 1 Op.54Mendelssohn: Organ Sonata No. 4 Op.54Boellmann: Toccata from Suite GothiqueReger: Toccata & Fugue in D min Op.59 No.6

List CElgar: Sonata in G Op.23 1st movementMcCabe: Elegy NovelloHowells: Any TWO from 6 Pieces NovelloMessian: Verset pour le Fete de la Dedicace LeducHindemith: Sonata No.3 Schott

Transposition (20 marks)Transposition of an unseen 4-part Hymn by one semitone upor down as requested. The melody to be played on a separatemanual to the inner voices and the bass to be played on thepedals.

Questions (10 marks)On all matters relating to the performance including selectionof repertoire, technical issues, choice of registrations etc.will be asked.

Sight Reading (10 marks)One of:1. A short solo passage for full organ. No registrationinformation will be given and the candidate must selectappropriately to the instrument.2. A short improvisation on a given melody. Harmonisationwill be required and the expected length will be approximately32 bars.

Licentiate Diploma (LVCM)Syllabus II Recitalists DiplomaAs outlined under Syllabus I above, except that, instead ofTransposition, an own choice solo is to be performed inaddition.

Candidates for LVCM must pass Victoria College of Music Grade VI Theory of Music. See Theory syllabus for details.Candidates who can produce evidence of having passed “A” Level in Music or equivalent may apply for exemption from theTheory requirement.

Candidates for Licentiateship must be Associates of the VCM unless it has been agreed in advance in writing that thisrequirement can be waived by virtue of equivalent qualification

Licentiate Diploma(LVCM(TD)) Syllabus IIITeaching of Pipe Organ Playing

Candidates must submit with their entry a Dissertation orDVD as in the AVCM(TD) Syllabus, except the Dissertationmust be 1500-2000 words in length (excluding topics set forAVCM (TD)), and the DVD should be about 30 minutes inlength, showing about 20 minutes work on a piece of at leastGrade 6 level, and about ten minutes on two other aspectsof Teaching of this instrument.

PERFORMANCE SECTION (40 Marks)To play TWO pieces by DIFFERENT composers, from theLVCM Syllabus I list (one of which may be an own choice)

TEACHING SECTION (50 Marks)The candidate is to present TWO contrasted pieces byDIFFERENT composers from the VCM Grade Examinationlists for this instrument, as followsONE piece from the Grade 6-7 lists;ONE piece from Grade 8.

The candidate must be able to demonstrate/discuss theteaching of these pieces to examination readiness, to explainthe difficulties likely to be encountered by the pupil, and tosuggest ways of overcoming these problems.

The examiner may request extracts or completeperformances of the chosen pieces, and the candidate’splaying of them WILL BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT whenarriving at the mark for this section.

The candidate must be able to demonstrate/discuss theteaching of Scalework as set for up to Grade 8.

Licentiate Diploma in Pipe Organ Playing LVCM

Fellowship Diploma (FVCM(TD))Syllabus I I Teachers Diploma

Candidates for Fellowship must be Licentiates of the VCM in a keyboard subject unless it has beenagreed in advance in writing that this requirement can be waived by virtue of equivalent qualifications.There is no Theory requirement for the Fellowship examination.

Candidates must present a balanced programmeof their own choice of five solos. The standard ofdifficulty should be suited to this level ofexamination.

Candidates should be able to introduce theirprogramme as though to a live audience.

There are no other tests for this examination andthe marks are as follows:

Solo recital (90 marks)

Discussion of the work performed (10 marks)

Fellowship Diploma (FVCM)Syllabus I Performers Diploma

Candidates must submit with their entry aDissertation or DVD as in the LVCM (TD) Syllabus,except that the dissertation must be 3500-5000words in length (excluding topics set for AVCM (TD)or material already submitted for LVCM (TD), andthe DVD should be about 40 minutes in length,showing about 25 minutes work on a piece of atleast DipVCMAVCM level, and about 15 minuteson two other aspects of the teaching of thisinstrument.

PERFORMANCE SECTION (40 Marks)To play TWO contrasting pieces, of a standardcommensurate with the Fellowship examinationlasting approximately 20 minutes

TEACHING SECTION (50 Marks)The candidate is to present TWO contrasted piecesby DIFFERENT composers from the VCM GradeExaminations for this instrument, as follows:

ONE piece from the Grade 8 SyllabusONE piece from the AVCM , or LVCM

Syllabuses.

The candidate must be able to demonstrate/discussthe teaching of these pieces to examinationreadiness, to explain the difficulties likely to beencountered by the pupil, and to suggest ways ofovercoming these problems.The examiner may request extracts or completeperformances of the chosen pieces, and thecandidate’s playing of them WILL BE TAKEN INTOACCOUNT when arriving at the mark for thissection.

Fellowship Diploma in Pipe Organ Playing FVCM

In 1922, when Victoria College of Music, London was a teaching establishment as wellas an examination body, an organ was specifically designed and voiced by Revd. NoelA. Bonavia-Hunt (1882-1965) for practice and examination purposes. The instrumentstill exists, having been moved to the Church of St Nicholas of Myra, in Worth Matravers,Dorset, in 1958. It was the only organ designed by “NB-H” as he was known, and builtby G H C Foskett.

A tubular-pneumatic instrument blown on 3’’ (76mm) wind pressure, its specificationisGreat: Open diapason 8’, Stopped Diapason 8’, Principal 4’Swell (enclosed): Viola da Gamba 8’; Flauto Traverso 4’Choir: Dulcianna 8’Pedal: Sub Bass 16’Three couplers; balanced swell pedal; tremulant.

It is a true three manual organ of onlyseven speaking stops. It is uncasedwith flats of seven large (speaking)diapason pipes on either side of theattached console which faces east.A simple group of smaller dummypipes are above the console. Thespecification betrays something of

the speciale x a m i n a t i o npurposes forwhich it waso r i g i n a l l ydesigned.

Donald Baker, Principal of Victoria College from 1988 until hisdeath in 1997, took his AVCM in Organ Playing in the 1920s on this

instrument. At 94 years of age, he made a visit to Worth Matravers, climbing the stiff,narrow stone staircase leading to the gallery, and played the instrument for the first timesince he had sat his AVCM on it at Holland Park seventy years earlier. He was delightedwith it - and he played it extremely well despite those 94 years.

The organ was restored by Gray & Davison in 1958 when it moved to Dorset; but by2011 it was found to be much in need of refurbishment costing some £40,000.However, a local appeal raised the necessary funding for a 2013 refurbishment by DerryThomson.

The Victoria College Organ

The authoritative guide to employment law, running a choir, working with clergy, childprotection, health and safety, copyright, fees, tax, licensing and much more. Writtenby a lawyer and a chartered accountant who are both organists. This book has beenuniversally praised and recommended, and has already been adopted as a text book forcourses and quoted in cases concerning organists.

pipe organ - victoria college · the victoria college of music, london has held pipe organ...

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