MANDOLIN - Victoria College · 2 Published in co-operation with the British BMG Federation In memory of the late Alison Stephens 1.3.70 - 10.10.10 who inspired VCM to offer Mandolin

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vcmexams.com

MANDOLIN

ictoria College ExaminationsP

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Published in co-operation with theBritish BMG Federation

In memory of the lateAlison Stephens1.3.70 - 10.10.10

who inspired VCM to offer Mandolin examinations again.VCM had offered Examinations in “Mandoline” playing in its 1930s syllabus.

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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: [email protected] W: [email protected]

©2016 Victoria College of Music and Drama, London Ltd

Ltd

Corporate Member of

Member of

Subject ConsultantBarbara Pommeranke-Steel BEd DipVCM

Mandolin Syllabus

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ABOUT THE VCMVictoria College of Music, London, is an independent body providing examinations in Music, Speech, and Drama subjects. It hasheld examination sessions throughout the British Isles and certain overseas countries since it was founded in 1890. It no longeroperates a full-time teaching institution.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 long been a pioneer in the assesment of performing on instruments from differentbackgrounds and was one of the first bodies to offer examinations upon Mandolin. This syllabus was devised in conjunction with theBritish Mandolin and Guitar Association with whom VCM have collaborated for many years. Diploma examinations in MandolinEducation are available in a separate syllabus.

CHANGES TO SYLLABUSVCM examination requirements do not alter annually, the current syllabus is that listed on our website.Any changes to the syllabus are announced well in advance on 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 other similarly recognised examinationboards.In addition to Grades 1 to 8, VCM examinations are available at several introductory levels prior to Grade 1 as a means ofencouraging beginners, or students with special needs. Medal and Diploma examinations are also available in all subjects.Candidates at all levels receive a written report and, if successful, a certificate or diploma.

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

EXAMINER TRAININGAll examiners are professionally trained in a number of skills not simply the subject matter. Feedback from centres is gatheredroutinely as is feedback from examiners about centres; and issues arising are acted upon. For purposes of training andmoderating of marking, there will, on occasions, be a second examiner or College representative present in examinations

OWN COMPOSITIONS Candidates for Grades 1 to 8 may perform their own compositions in lieu of Musicianship Tests. Furtherguidance is set out in Crazy Composing available from www.vcmpublications.co.uk

REGULATIONSAll entries are accepted on the conditions laid down in General Regulations and Information, a copy of which is available free ofcharge. 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 candidates on a page. Please usethe code “MN” 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 ask questions on notes, rests,musical terms and signs, key and time-signatures, according to the Grade. Also specifically on minor keys; perfect, major, andminor intervals (Grade 3 upwards).

SIGHT READINGSight Reading tests are included from Preparatory level upwards. The relative standard will be that of approximately two gradesbelow the grade being taken. Examiners may discuss the Sight Reading Test with candidates as part of the Questions. SpecimenSight Reading Tests are available to purchase from vcmpublications.co.uk

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

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SET PIECESCandidates are required to prepare the specified number of pieces in all examinations. In all examinations each piece beingperformed should be written by a different composer. Examiners may stop the candidate at any point or request repeats etc. to beomitted.The following hard-to source-books set for this syllabus are available from:

S. Ranieri - L’Art de la mandoline Vol I and II - Available from Boosey and Hawkes www.boosey.com/shopElke Tober-Vogt - Leichte Solostucke fur Mandoline - Availble from www.di-arezzo.co.uk or http://trekel.deThe music of Raffale Calace is available to download from http://www.federmandolino.it/htm/spartiti_calace.htm as well as anylisted published editions.

Candidates are required to purchase Scales and Exercises for Mandolin by London Music Press for use in exams from Grades 1to 8.

London Music Press (LMP) publications are available on-line post free fromwww.vcmpublications.co.uk

They can also be ordered by post: an order form is available on request.

Some of the pieces set in the syllabus include options that are published by commercial publishers. These maybe obtained on-lineat sites such as www.musicroom.com or in most good music shops.

Where early and pre-20th century works are prescribed the edition listed is a known available copy but other editions of the samework maybe substituted if agreed in advance with the College. Second hand and out of print music can be purchased onwww.amazon.co.uk or www.ebay.co.uk. Certain out of copyright pieces maybe obtained for free from www.imlsp.orgDemonstrations of many set works maybe found on www.youtube.com but please be aware that the quality of performance isvariable.

ACCOMPANISTSCandidates are required to provide their own competent accompanist in all pieces published with accompaniment. The accompanistwill remain in the room only while accompanying. Where no accompaniment is provided examiners will comment upon gaps inmusical texture as appropriate. If a piece is published with CD, etc., this maybe used but it is the responsibility of the candidate toprovide the required equipment and be able to operate it in the exam without delay. At Grades A-D accompaniment is encouragedbut optional.

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

MEDLEYS & OWN CHOICESWhere examination requirements include medleys or own choices, a second copy of the score must be provided for the examiner.At all levels, the examiners may penalise an option clearly chosen for its comparative ease.

ESSAYS, FOLIOS, ETC.Where 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, legibly written, typed or wordprocessed. Do not bind the pages as they need to be scanned though a sheet feeder. All dissertations should contain a bibliographyand contents page. For more guidance see Essay Writing for the Victoria College Teaching Diplomas published by London MusicPress.

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

EXEMPTION FROM QUESTIONS AT PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONSCandidates who have passed certain VCM Theoretical Examinations are entitled to claim full marks for questions at PracticalExaminations 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 beginning of the practical examination.Examiners do not take it amiss if reminded not to ask questions if they have been shown a qualifying Theory pass.

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First Steps in MandolinPlaying

Exercises (20 Marks)Candidates must perform two exercises from :

Introductory Mandolin London Music PressClimbing Ben AnnExercise 2

Scalework (10 marks)To play the scale of D major over a fifth, down stroke only.

Solo Pieces (60 marks)To play any two of the following pieces; or one of the piecesplus an “own choice” suitable for the grade:

Introductory Mandolin London Music PressI Gave My Love A CherryAura Lee

Music Medals Silver Copper Violin ABRSMMirrorsDanger SignalLittle Star!

Questions (10 marks)

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

Introductory Examinations

M N A M N B

Preliminary Mandolin Playing


Introductory Mandolin London Music PressStop at the LandingExercise 2

Easy Mandolin Solos Mel BayWhere The Rivers Change Direction

Scalework (10marks)To play the Scale of D major, one octave ascending, downstroke only.

Solo Pieces (60 marks)To play any two of the following piece; or one of the piecesplus an “own choice” suitable for the grade:

Introductory Mandolin London Music PressJolly Old St NicholasFrere Jacques

Music Medals Silver Copper Violin ABRSMLoch Morar

65 Graded Music for Mandolin AstuteFrench traditional: Fais do-do

SUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES SUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

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Introductory ExaminationsM N DMN C

SUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES SUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

Preparatory Mandolin Playing


Introductory Mandolin London Music PressTogether and AloneExercise 2

Scalework (10 marks)To play the scale of G major, down stroke only.

Solo Pieces (50 marks)To play any two of the following pices; or one of the piecesplus an “own choice” suitable for the grade:

Music Medals Silver Violin ABRSMFlipso Calypso

First Images Astute MusicStephens: Little Waltz

Introductory Mandolin London Music PressCockles and MusselsHome On The Range


Advanced PreparatoryMandolin Playing


Introductory Mandolin London Music PressGlidingMr D Meets Some Notes

First Images AstuteStephens: Ghostly Bells

Scalework (10marks)To play the Scales of G and D major, one octave ascending,down stroke only.

Solo Pieces (50 marks)To play any two of the following pieces; or one of the piecesplus an “own choice” suitable for the grade:

Introductory Mandolin London Music PressStar of The County DownDance Tune

Music Medals Silver ABRSMJohn Ryan’s Polka

Leichte Solostücke für MandolineVogt and FritzAnonymous: Tanz und NachtanzSor: Menuett


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Grade 1 Mandolin Playing M N 1SUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

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

List AMusic for the Mandolin London Music PressLasso: My Heart Is Yours

Music for the Mandolin London Music PressPurcell: Rondeau

Fouchetti Serenaden Trekel Dkm 17aFouchetti: 3rd movement (Allemande) Serenade No.1Fouchetti:3rd movement (Allemande)Serenade No.2

Leichte Solostucke fur Mandoline Vogt and FritzAnonymous: Spagnoletta

Leichte Solostucke fur Mandoline Vogt and FritzW.A. Mozart: Menuett

List BMandolin Supplement London Music PressBranzoli: Andante MossoPeitrapertosa: Allegretto

65 Graded Music for Mandolin Astute MusicTraditional: Torna a Surriento

List C65 Graded Music for Mandolin AstuteStephens: Soldiers March

Technique on Eight Strings Vol.1 Vogt & Fritz V & F 13Gertrud Tröster: Study No.3 (Christofaro)

First Images AstuteBoyde: Chiming In

Blues-Swing-Ragtime Vogt & Fritz V & F 22Schindler: Mandolin Blues

Muikalisches Bilderbuch Vogt & FritzMarlo Strauss: Der Dicke Kaiser or Kleines Praeludium

Reflections AstutePommerenke-Steel: Mysterious Night Dance

Microjazz for MandolinNorton: Face In The Crowd Boosey & Hawkes

The Joy of Sets Vol.1 Pigpipe Pressarr. Gatherer: Island Dance and The Peat Fire Flame

An own choice piece of comparable standard chosen fromthe last 25 years.

Scalework(10 marks)D major - scale and arpeggio one octave in down strokesG major - scale and arpeggio two octaves downstroke only

Exercises as set out in Scales and Exercises for MandolinLondon Music Press


Sight Reading (10 marks)

EITHER of the following two tests (10 marks)

a) Musicianship TestsTest 1: To clap a rhythm in 2/4 time. 2 bars in length, playedtwice by the examiner.Test 2: To identify any note in the arpeggio C/E/G/C', MiddleC being givenTest 3: To echo a five-note phrase played twice by theexaminer.

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

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Grade 2 Mandolin Playing

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

List AMusic for the Mandolin London Music PressBrescianello: Entre

Fouchetti Serenaden Trekel Dkm 17aFouchetti: 1st movement (Marche) Serenade No.1Fouchetti: 2nd movement (Minuetto) Serenade No.2Fouchetti: 1st movement (Andante Grazioso) Sonata No.3

Leichte Solostucke fur Mandoline Vogt and FritzTober-Vogt: Minuet eines Tanzmeisters

List BMandolin Supplement London Music PresscCristofaro: Tempo di Minuetto or Moderato

Technique on Eight Strings Vol.1 Vogt & Fritz V & F 13Gertrud Tröster: Study No.5

List CFirst Images AstuteStephens: Theme and Variations

6 Episodes for Mandolin AstuteStephens: Cloudy Horizons

Reflections AstutePommerenke-Steel: The Turning of The Leaves

Muikalisches Bilderbuch Vogt & FritzMarlo Strauss: Scmetterlinge

Microjazz for Mandolin Boosey & HawkesNorton: Fly Away or Seascape

The Joy of Sets Vol.1 Pigpipe Pressarr. Gatherer: Hector The Hero


MN 2Show on entry form asSUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

Scalework(10 marks)A and Bb majors - scale and arpeggio two octaves in downand alternate strokesC major - scale and arpeggio oneoctaves in down andalternate strokesG minor- scale and arpeggio two octaves down and alternatestrokeA minor- scale and arpeggio oneoctaves in down stroke onlyExercises as set out in Scales and Exercises for MandolinLondon Music Press




a) Musicianship TestsTest 4: To clap a rhythm in 2/4 time. 2 bars in length, playedtwice 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 playedtwice by the examiner, and to complete the phrase by addingone note

or b) Own compositionPerform an own composition of about 16 bars in the key ofC, G or F major. It should be balanced as an opening 4-bar

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List AFavourite Mandolin Solos from the 18thC Astute MusicSauli: Partita IIILecce: Partita in C

Fouchetti Serenaden Trekel Dkm 17aFouchetti: Serenade No.3 1st movement

List BReflections: Pommerenke-Steel: Reflections Astute MusicTremolo to be used

L’Art de la Mandoline Vol.1 CranzMazas: Tempo di ValseTremolo to be used

Four Little Dances Astute MusicCalace: Primo PremioTremolo to be used

L’Art de la Mandoline Vol.2 CranzMazas: Rondo No. 16Tremolo NOT to be used

Four Easy Waltzes Astute MusicCalace: Oreste Op.4Tremolo NOT to be used

Show on entry form asSUBJECT GRADESURNAME FORENAMES

M N 3

List CBurlesken Vogt & Fritz V & F 25Marlo Strauss: Regentropfen

Aphorismen Vogt & Fritz V & F 3005Marlo Strauss: Danza

Mandolin Music London Music PressPakenham: Mr Honey Walks Down The Street

Microjazz for Mandolin Boosey & HawkesNorton: Wind Up or Rustic Dance

The Joy of Sets Vol.1 Pigpipe Pressarr.Gatherer: Set 9 - Out on the Ocean, Bill Collins &Coleman’s Cross


Scalework(10 marks)All scales and arpeggios to be prepared using down strokeand/or alternate stroke.

D and C majors - two octavesG and A harmonic minors - two octavesChromatic from Open D - one octaveExercises as laid out in Scales and Exercises for MandolinLondon Music PressQuestions (10 marks)



a) Musicianship TestsTest 7: To clap a rhythm in 2/4 or 3/4 time, 2 bars, playedtwice 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 playedtwice by the examiner, and then to complete the phrase byadding two or three notes.

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

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Grade 4 MandolinPlaying


List AWerke fur Mandolin und Klavier HenleBeethoven: Sonatina in C minor

Fouchetti Sonaten Trekel Dkm 17bFouchetti: Sonata IV for two Mandolins, any 1 movement

Concerto for Mandolin Hans Gerig Verlag, KolnJ.A. Hasse: 1st movement

List BL’Art de la Mandoline Vol.2 CranzPleyel: Andante Grazioso No.23 Tremolo to be used

L’Art de la Mandoline Vol.2 CranzBeriot: Cantabile Grazioso No. 52 Tremolo to be used

L’Art de la Mandoline Vol.2 CranzDancla: Rondo No. 34 Tremolo NOT to be used

L’Art de la Mandoline Vol.2 CranzRanieri: No.46 Presto (Tarentella)Tremolo NOT to be used

Six Excursions Astute MusicStephens: Neapolitian WaltzTremolo NOT to be used

List CVakantie Grenzland VerlagVerpoest: De Koordanser

Mandolin Music London Music PressPakenham: Swinging

Sonatine für Mandoline und Gitarre Vogt and FritzFritz Pilsl: 2nd movement


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M N 4

Scalework(10 marks)ScalesC major - 2 octaves down or alternate strokeE major - 2 octaves alternate strokeA major - 1 octave down stroke on one stringC melodic minor - 2 octaves down or alternate strokeD melodic minor - 2 octaves alternate stroke in swingquaversD harmonic minor - 2 octaves down strokeChromatic on B (second string) - one octave

ArpeggiosC major - 2 octaves down strokeE major - 2 octaves down strokeC melodic minor - 2 octaves down strokeD melodic minor - 2 octaves down stroke

Exercises as laid out in Scales and Exercises for MandolinLondon Music Press




a) Musicianship TestsTest 10: To clap a rhythm in 2/4, 3/4 or 4/4 time played twiceby 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 namethe 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

or b) Own compositionPerform an own composition in simple binary form in the keyof D or B flat major, including a modulation to a related key.

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List ATechnique on Eight Strings Vol.2 Vogt & Fritz V & F 14Gertrud Tröster: Study No.8

Variations for Mandolin and Guitar SchottVon Call: Variations Op. 25 Theme and 2 variations

List BL’Art de la Mandoline Vol.2 CranzRanieri: Tempo di Polka rapide No.73

Aphorismen Vogt and FritzMarlo Strauss: Traum for Mandolin Solo

Calace: Tarantella Op.18 www.free-scores.com

List CKalberer: Suite No.2 Vogt and FritzMenuett, Rumba and Trauermarsch

New Celtic Mandolin Hobgoblin MusicMayor: Lord Mayo and the Butterfly

6 Adventures for Solo Mandolin AstuteStephens: Contemplation

Four Progressive Pieces AstuteDavidson: Street Scene

Mike Marshall’s Mandolin Method: Brazilians ChorosAdventure Music PublishingNazareth: Brejeiro

Sonatine for Mandolin and Guitar Vogt and FritzFritz Pilsl: 1st or 3rd movement



M N 5

Scalework(10 marks)Eb major - scale 2 octaves alternate stroke, arpeggio 2 oc-taves down strokeG major - 3 octaves using alternate stroke 4 semiquavers toa note with long tonic, arpeggio in triplets, alternate strokeA major - 1 octave on one string, continous tremoloG melodic minor - 3octaves in swing quavers with alternatestroke, arpeggio 3 ocatves in straight quaversF major - 2 octaves in 3rd or 4th position, arpeggio to matchF melodic minor - 2 octaves using alternate stroke in swingquavers, no arpeggioChromatic starting on D - 2octaves



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.

or 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.



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List AWerke fur Mandolin und Klavier HenleBeethoven: Adagio in E flat

2 Airs for Solo Mandolinwww.michaelreichenbach.musicane.com/sheetmusic/Leone: De Samodeste Mere

3 Centuries of Mandolin Music www.di-arezzo.co.uk or Vogt& FritzRiggieri: La Fustemberg: Theme and variations 1-5 and 7-9

Sonate in for Mandolin and Basso Continuo Vogt and FritzTedesco: 1st movement

Sonata in G ZimmermanGuerra : 1st movement

Leone: Sonata No.2 in G major Op.1 for Mandolin & BassoContinuo Vogt and Fritz1st movement

List BCalace: Gavotta Op.187 Grenzland VerlagSilvia, orRomanza

Aphorismen Vogt and FritzMarlo Strauss: Meditation for Mandolin Solo

L’Art de la Mandoline Vol.2 Cranz www.crescendo-music.comPleyel: Adagio Espressivo No. 67

List CKalberer: Suite No.1 Vogt and FritzPraludium, Sarabande and March

Estampas Grenzland VerlagMunoz: L’ami (No.5), or Daisen-In (No.4)

6 Adventures for Solo Mandolin AstuteStephens: Mount Fuji

Kaufmann: Burletta Heinrichshofen

Mandolin Music London Music PressPakenham: Paper Boat



M N 6

Scalework (10 marks)All scales to be played down stroke, alternate stroke or intremolo (continous tremolo optional).Arpeggios to be performed down stroke or alternate stroke

A major - 3 octavesBmajor - 2 octavesE harmonic minor - 2 octavesF# melodic minor- 2 octavesBb harmonic minor - 2 octavesG major in 6ths - 1 octave in tripletsChromatic starting on A - 2 octaves





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.

or 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.

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List AGervasio: Sonata (IV) Ut Orpheus Man 061st movement

Hummel: Concerto for Mandolin in G Heinrichshofen1st or 3rd movement

Vivaldi: Concerto for Mandolin in C Ricordi or SantabarbaraSB084 (with guitar: Breitkopf & Härtel)1st or 3rd movement

Beethoven: Werke für Mandoline und Klavier. Henle (Urtext)Sonatina in C for Mandolin and Piano, orAndante con variazioni for Mandolin and Piano.

Leone: Sonata No. 2 Vogt & Fritz V&F 40041st or 3rd movement

Giovanni Hoffmann: Sonata in G, Vogt & Fritz V&F 50031st movement

List B

Raffaele Calace: Amor si culla. Grenzland Verlag GVH KM-2115

Calace: Danza Spagnola for Mandolin and Guitar

Calace: Rondo Op.127 AstuteRondo, Romanza and Tarantella

List CAproximação for Mandolin Solo TrekelGrafschmidt: 1.Animação

New Celtic Mandolin HobgoblinSimon Mayor: Parcel of Rogues for Mandolin Solo

Zehm: 3 Bagatellen for Mandolin and Guitar Vogt & FritzV&F 4040Any two movements

Erdmann: Sonatina for mandolin and piano SchottAny two movements



M N 7

Scalework (10 marks)Unless otherwise indicated all scales have to be preparedusing down stroke, alternate stroke or in tremoloFor all major and minor scales the appropriate arpeggiosmust be prepared. These need to be play down or alternatestroke only.

C# major - one octaveE major - two octavesF# major - two octavesG major in 6ths - one octaves either down stroke or tremoloAb major - two octavesB major - two octavesD harmonic minor - two octavesE harmonic minor - one octave on one string with tremoloE melodic minor - one octave on one string with tremoloAb melodic minor - three octavesB harmonic minor - three octaves




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.

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

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Grade 8 Mandolin PlayingCandidates must pass or have passed VCM Grade IV Theory ofMusic - or hold a certificate of exemption - before the Grade 8practical certificate is awarded.


List AG. Leone: any one movement Sonata No.6 for mandolinand B.C. Vogt & Fritz V&F 5051

A.R. Capponi: one slow and one fast movement Sonata dacamera No. 12 for mandolin and B.C, Vogt & Fritz V&F4049

G.B. Gervasio: 1st Mvt Sonata da Camera, for mandolinand guitar. Vogt & Fritz V&F 42

G.B. Gervasio: Sonata (VI) Ut Orpeus Man 08 orZimmermann ZM 29560

Riggieri: La Fustemberg Santabarbara Sb072Theme and variations 1, 3, 8, 9 & 10

List BTakashi Ochi: Fantasia No.1 for mandolin solo ZimmermannZM 1001

Raffaele Calace: Piccola Gavotta for mandolin solo

List CJuan Carlos Munoz: El Duende for mandolin solo (No. 8).Estampas. Grenzland Verlag GVH

Graham Powning: Eucalypts for mandolin solo ThreeCenturies of Mandolin Music www.di-arezzo.co.uk or Vogt& Fritz

Michael Kubik: 1st movement Sonatina Buffa for mandolinsolo Grenzland Verlag GHV KM-2013

Brian Israel: Toccata for mandolin and guitar Sonatinettawww.di-arezzo.co.uk or Vogt & Fritz

Daniel Pinkham: 3rd movement Introduction, Nocturne andAllegro for mandolin and guitar Zimmermann ZM 2028

Friedrich Zehm: 1st movement Sonatine for mandolin andguitar Schott sch GA47

Armin Kaufmann: Mitoka Dragomirna for mandolin and piano.Heinrichshofen


Scalework (10 marks)All scales to be played: down, alternate stroke or tremoloAll arpeggios to be played down or alternate stroke

C# major - two octavesAb major - threeoctavesBb major - three octavesD major - one octaves on one string, starting on the a stringA major - two octaves in 6thsC- harmonic minor - two octavesC- melodic minor - two octavesF- harmonic minor - two octavesF- melodic minor - two octavesA- harmonic minor - three octavesA- melodic minor - three octavesChromatic G - three octaves starting on open G




M N 8


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 28: 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.

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

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Bronze MedalSolo Pieces (80 Marks)Candidates must prepare and perform FOUR pieces in all:

To play any THREE pieces from the Grade 5 syllabusPlus a further candidate’s own choice item of appropriate standard not listed elsewhere in the syllabus

Questions (10 marks) Sight Reading (10 marks)


M N BM

Silver MedalSolo Pieces (80 Marks)Candidates must prepare and perform FOUR pieces in all:


Questions (10marks) Sight Reading (10 marks)


Mn SM

Junior Bronze MedalSolo Pieces (80 Marks)Candidates must prepare and perform FOUR pieces in all:




M N JBM

There are no Scalework, Musicianship Tests or Composition requirements at VCM Medal exams

Junior Silver MedalSolo Pieces (80 Marks)Candidates must prepare and perform FOUR pieces in all:




MN JSM

Medal Awards

VCM Medal awards are performance-based examinations, with ahigher Pass Mark of 75%

There are no degrees of Merit/Distinction, etc.

Successful candidates receive in addition to a certificate, an orderform enabling them to purchase their medal, with the option tohave it engraved with their names, the subject and the year.

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Gold Medal

Candidates for the Gold Medal must have previously passed the Silver Medal in the same subject

Candidates are to present a balanced programme showing a range of styles of their own choice, inconsultation with their teacher. There should be a total of five pieces that do not appear elsewhere in thesyllabus and are of appropriate standard for this level of examination. The programme is to be introducedas to a live audience and the examiner will expect to be treated as such. Introductions should thereforebe informative but also show some variety of approach.

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

Solo recital (90 marks)

Discussion of the work performed (10 marks)

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

Candidates are to present a balanced programme showing a range of styles of their own choice, inconsultation with their teacher. There should be a total of five pieces that do not appear elsewhere in thesyllabus and are of appropriate standard for examination.

At least three composers of different nationalities should be represented.

Allowing for the development of the instrument candidates should ensure a balanced spread of historicalperiods/styles in their programmes.

One piece must be by a contemporary composer of the last 40 years.

The programme is to be introduced as to a live audience and examiners will expect to be treated assuch. Introductions should therefore be informative but also show some variety of approach.


Discussion of the work performed (10 marks)

Platinum Medal



Mn GM

M N PM

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Diploma in Mandolin 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 inMusic or 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 momentsperusal.


Diplomas in Mandolin Playing

Successful candidates in Diploma examinations receive an A3-sized diploma of a design little changed from 1890, alongwith the examiner’s report and an authorisation to purchase the appropriate academical robes.

All correspondence and payment for academical robes must be addressed directly to the official Robemakers Knights ofCastle Cary, Knights Yard, Castle Cary, BA7 7AW United Kingdom.

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 style with ½ inch blueribbon 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 with ½ inch of scarletribbon 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 of Cambridge bachelor stylewith 1 inch of scarlet ribbon on the facings and rigid black square hat with tassel.

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Associate Diploma (AVCM)Syllabus I Performers Diploma

Solo Pieces (60 marks)To perform three items, one from each list: List AG. Leoni: L’avez-vous vu mon bien aimé for mandolin soloWww.di-arezzo.co.uk or Vogt& Fritz

Georg Philipp Telemann: Fantasie for violin No.4 (D-major)Edition Peters

Georg Philipp Telemann: Fantasie for violin No.5 (A-major)Edition Peters

List BJiro Nakano: Harugakita for mandolin solo Vogt & Fritz V &F 5011

Valentin Abt: Impromptu for mandolin solo Three Centuriesof mandolin music Www.di-arezzo.co.uk or Vogt& Fritz

Carlo Munier: Capriccio Spagnuolo op.276 for mandolin andpiano or guitar Santabarbara

List CFrank Scheuerle: Studie & Fantasie for mandolin solo Vogt& Fritz V&F5022

Takashi Ochi: Se’ I Doh for mandolin solo Zimmermann

Oliver Kaelberer: Preludio e Danza for mandolin solo Vogt &Fritz V&F 5001

Yasuo Kuwahara: Improvised Poem for mandolin solo Vogt& Fritz V&F 5015

Yasuo Kuwahara: Perpetual Movement for mandolin soloVogt & Fritz V&F 5020

Julian Dawes: 1st movement Sonata for mandolin solo Vogt& Fritz V&F 5017

Yasuo Kuwahara: Eclogue for mandolin and guitar Vogt &Fritz V&F 5007

or a candidate’s own choice composed post-1980

Scalework (20 marks)All major, minor (both forms) scales for two octaves, andchromatic scales from any note.



Associate Diploma(A.V.C.M.(T.D.)) Syllabus III inTeaching of Mandolin Playing

This 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 the following:(a) A Folio showing work and notes for a 10-week term oflessons for ONE of these categories:1. The young beginner2. The teenage beginner3. The adult beginner(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.

SIGHT READING (10 Marks)

Candidates for AVCM must pass Victoria College of Music Grade V Theory of Music. Candidates whocan produce evidence of having passed GCSE in Music or equivalent may apply for exemption fromthe Theory requirement.

Associate Diploma in Mandolin Playing AVCM

Associate Diploma (A.V.C.M.)Syllabus II Recitalists DiplomaAs outlined under Syllabus I above, except that, instead ofScalework, an own choice solo is to be performed in addition.

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Licentiate Diploma (LVCM)Syllabus I Performers Diploma

Solo Pieces (60 marks)To perform three items, one from each list:

List AJ.S. Bach: 1st & 2nd or 3rd & 4th movements Sonata in G-minor for violin Edition Peters

Biber: Pasacaglia for violin Rosary Sonatas Kings Music(from Boosey and Hawkes)

Cecere: 1st movement Concerto for mandolin Ut Orpheus16R

List BCalace: Prelude No. 2 or 5 or 10 for mandolin solo

Munier: Introduzione e Aria variata op. 281 for mandolin andguitar Edition 49

List CKonietzny: 1st movement Kawaguchiana for mandolin solo.Vogt & Fritz V&F 5053

or a candidate’s own choice composed post-1980

Scalework(20 marks)As for AVCM but for three octaves, plus Dominant 7tharpeggios for 2 octaves. Chords: Tonic at Dominant 7th of allflat keys.



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 advancein writing that this requirement can be waived by virtue of equivalent qualification

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

Licentiate Diploma(L.V.C.M.(T.D.))Syllabus IIIin Teaching Mandolin 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.

SIGHT READING (10 Marks)`

Licentiate Diploma in Mandolin Playing LVCM

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Candidates for Fellowship must be Licentiates of the VCM in Mandolin unless it has been agreedin advance in writing that this requirement can be waived by virtue of equivalent qualifications.

Candidates for the Fellowship Diploma arerequired to prepare a concert recital for theexamination and should dress accordingly.

Candidates must submit their own programme ofFIVE solo works for approval by the College at leastone month before the proposed examination date.One solo should be a substantial work e.g. aMandolin sonata, concerto or a large scale suite.Programmes should provide a balance of style andforms.


Discussion of the work performed (10 marks)This will refer both to the pieces performed and tothe general repertoire of the Mandolin

This is a Teacher’s Diploma. Candidates mustbe Licentiates of the College in KeyboardPlaying unless it has been agreed in advancethat direct entry is appropriate by virtue ofprevious qualifications.

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.

SIGHT READING (10 Marks)

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

Fellowship Diploma (FVCM)Syllabus I Performers Diploma

Fellowship Diploma in Mandolin Playing FVCM

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The Victoria College Mandolin(e) syllabus in use in the 1930s

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Documents

MANDOLIN - Victoria College · 2 Published in co-operation with the British BMG Federation In memory of the late Alison Stephens 1.3.70 - 10.10.10 who inspired VCM to offer Mandolin