Should we observe repeats in RCM pieces?
October 21, 2022 by Taras (Terry) Babyuk
Introduction
A common question asked by students preparing for their RCM exams is whether repeat signs and other similar markings should be observed or ignored. This is the question we are going to answer once and for all in this short article, so that you are confident knowing that you are preparing for your exam in the right way. The information here refers to both Repertoire and Etudes pieces and holds true for all instruments, not just piano. So let's get started!
Source: RCM Practical Examinations Syllabus (2021), RCM Piano Syllabus (2022)
Repeat Signs
Repeat signs in Repertoire and Etudes should be ignored unless stated otherwise.
Whenever repeat signs are to be observed, it will say so at the bottom of the first page of the piece you are preparing. See below for an example.
At higher levels such as the Associate Diploma (ARCT) or Licentiate Diploma (LRCM), the RCM states that "repeats may be observed at the candidate's discretion, within the allotted time" (RCM Piano Syllabus, 2022).
Da Capo & Dal Segno Signs
Da Capo signs in Repertoire and Etudes should be observed unless stated otherwise.
In practice, you will almost always be observing Da Capo and Dal Segno signs in your pieces for examinations. It is very rare to find examples where RCM tells us not to observe them. One such rare example is illustrated below.
Conclusion
The general motivation behind guidelines such as ignoring repeat signs is to save time during examinations. By saving time, RCM is also able to accommodate more students on a given day. Also, repeating a musical passage can be seen as superfluous on an exam since the examiner has already heard it once and was able to evaluate it the first time around.
While observing repeat signs may hardly be felt in beginner pieces, it becomes much more noticeable with higher RCM Levels, where pieces themselves get longer and more difficult, therefore extending your exam time quite a bit. So do your best to follow the RCM guidelines as much as possible!
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