* Required of Performance Majors only
Each student receives a numerical rating on their ability to perform
standard technique. Each item is given
3 points. If one mistake is made, the student
receives 2 points; two mistakes results in 1 point; three or
more mistakes result in zero
points. Not counting Major Scales in 4ths, the highest possible total of
points
equals 228. To date, four students performing 9 categories in the order of their
choice have
attained a total of 226. Those students are Debbie Burr Hani in 1976, Tod Kerstetter in 1983,
Suzie Samuels in 1985, Wendy Bennis in 1999 and Mary Hedges, twice, 2003 & 2004.
The highest score for a random selection order (225) was achieved by Elizabeth Crawford in 1982.
The purpose of the Technique Test is multifarious:
students have an incentive to include standard
patterns in their daily regime;
they are able to compare their progress in this area with past results;
many graduate schools expect these items on entrance auditions;
the test is performed "slowly", thus allowing an opportunity to improve
intervals;
it helps eliminate the need to "relearn" patterns which often become dormant;
they can compete with themselves as well as others.
Music majors are required to perform scales, et al,
on their juries at the end of each term.
They are also expected to reach various
levels dependent upon their degree, viz.,
Music Education, Performance, etc. Knowing
that this test is part of the curriculum
puts a higher degree of emphasis on
"standard technique." A student is expected to
complete the entire test by
the end of the Sophomore year. A score of 200 is the
standard expectation for Music
Education majors and 220 for Performance majors.