Example piano improvisation test (motivic stimulus): Grade 3

Grade 3 candidate Anna performs her improvisation test (motivic stimulus), for which she was an awarded a Merit.

The improvisation test forms part of the supporting tests part of a Trinity piano exam. This section of the exam supports the development of broader musical skills by assessing candidates in two different tests. At Initial to Grade 5, candidates choose two supporting tests from four options:

• Sight reading
• Aural
• Improvisation
• Musical knowledge

At Grades 6–8, all candidates are assessed in sight reading, and choose either aural or improvisation for their second supporting test.

This flexibility is designed to allow candidates to demonstrate their musical skills in different ways, while recognising that sight reading is an important skill at higher grades.