Introduction
Performing is at the heart of IB Music, but it’s not just about playing the right notes. Examiners evaluate your ability to combine technical skill, musical expression, and cultural understanding in ways that bring music to life. A strong performance reflects preparation, authenticity, and reflection on your role as a musician.
This guide explains exactly what examiners look for in IB Music performances so you can prepare with confidence.
Quick Start Checklist: Examiners Want to See…
- Technical control (accuracy, tone, rhythm).
- Musical expression (phrasing, dynamics, articulation).
- Stylistic authenticity informed by research.
- Cultural and contextual awareness.
- Balance and collaboration in ensemble performance.
- Reflections on preparation and growth.
1. Technical Control
Examiners first assess how accurately you play:
- Correct notes and rhythms.
- Consistent intonation and tuning.
- Secure control of tone and timbre.
- Reliable tempo and coordination.
A technically secure performance provides the foundation for expression.
2. Musical Expression
Expression is what turns notes into music. Examiners look for:
- Dynamic contrast to shape musical lines.
- Articulation appropriate to the style.
- Phrasing that feels natural and engaging.
- Emotional communication with the listener.
Performances that combine accuracy with artistry stand out.
3. Stylistic Authenticity
Every genre has its own conventions. Examiners want to see that you’ve studied the style of your repertoire:
- Ornamentation in Baroque works.
- Swing feel in jazz standards.
- Rubato in Romantic piano music.
Authenticity shows research and cultural awareness.
4. Cultural and Contextual Awareness
Examiners value performances that acknowledge cultural background. For example:
- Understanding the ritual function of gamelan music.
- Recognizing the historical role of gospel call-and-response.
- Respecting the improvisatory traditions of raga.
Awareness elevates your performance beyond surface-level imitation.
5. Balance and Collaboration
If you’re performing in an ensemble, examiners look for:
- Awareness of balance between instruments or voices.
- Sensitivity to other performers.
- Cohesion in rhythm, dynamics, and phrasing.
Strong ensemble performances demonstrate listening and collaboration.
6. Reflection on Process
Performance reflections should explain:
- How you prepared repertoire.
- Challenges faced and solutions found.
- What you learned from rehearsals or recordings.
- How research influenced your interpretation.
Reflection proves engagement and critical thinking.
FAQs
1. Do examiners prefer solo or ensemble performances?
Both are valid. What matters is quality. Solos show independence, while ensembles highlight collaboration. Many students include a mix.
2. Do I need to perform music from different cultures?
Yes. IB values intercultural awareness, so variety in repertoire strengthens your performance submission.
3. What if I make mistakes during recording?
Small mistakes won’t ruin your grade if expression, authenticity, and control are strong overall. Examiners assess musicality, not perfection.
4. What’s the most common mistake in IB performances?
Focusing only on technical accuracy while neglecting expression and context. A mechanically correct performance without musicality often scores lower.
Conclusion
Examiners look for more than flawless technique in IB Music performances—they want artistry, authenticity, and awareness. By preparing with technical control, expressive depth, and cultural insight, you’ll deliver performances that stand out as examiner-ready.
RevisionDojo helps IB Music students refine their performances, ensuring portfolios show both musical skill and intercultural understanding.
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