THE MUSIC BULLETIN OF PFB/OUP/ABRSM. Message from the ABRSM Regional Consultant 1. Professional Development Programme Seminars 2

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1 Volume 10 November ISSUES A YEAR THE MUSIC BULLETIN OF PFB/OUP/ABRSM Message from the ABRSM Regional Consultant The period which has elapsed since the last (June) edition of Upbeat has certainly been action packed as far as the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) and Penerbit Fajar Bakti (PFB) are concerned. The most important event, of course, has been the exams, which have just finished in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Brunei (and are drawing to a close in Indonesia and the Philippines). A very large number of candidates have been examined in these countries and teams of examiners have arrived for, and departed from, their tours of duty, and by now most results have been processed and dispatched to anxious students, parents, teachers and sponsors. During the long period of the practical exams I visited many centres in order to observe at first hand how the process operates. Of course, with such a vast geographical area, it was not possible to visit all the exam centres (although I hope eventually to do so), but I was able to witness a good cross section in different countries and centres. Several features impressed me. Firstly, considering the complexity of the operation, the administration worked very smoothly in the main. The complexity is explained by the fact that each country has a different operational organization. In Malaysia, the Ministry of Education takes responsibility for the daily running of the exams, with separate desk officers in each state. Indonesia and Thailand, on the other hand, have dedicated Local Representatives. And the situation is again different in Singapore, Brunei and the Philippines. All these agencies liaise closely with the ABRSM in London, as well as with the South-East Asia Regional Consultant. Yet, despite this labyrinthine complexity, the exams progressed efficiently and were completed in a timely manner, with results duly processed and dispatched. This is not to say that there were no challenges along the way, but through consultations between the exam coordinators, desk officers, and the Regional Consultant any operational difficulties were quickly dealt with. The second feature which impressed me was the spirit of goodwill which was apparent everywhere. The Local Representatives, the desk officers, the clerks, the stewards all worked extremely hard and with good humour; it was wonderful to observe the pride and sense of belonging which so many felt for the ABRSM, along with their determination to do everything possible to help the candidates. I was also impressed with the professionalism of the examiners, who bring a wide range of qualities and experience to their task. Examining is very hard work, and requires great powers of concentration over a long period of time. Yet, at all times, they gave of their best and were always welcoming and courteous. Examiners understand (having taken many exams themselves) how stressful the occasion can be and always endeavour to provide the best possible atmosphere for candidates to demonstrate their musicianship. Content Content Message from the ABRSM Regional Consultant 1 Professional Development Programme Seminars 2 Product Presentation Day 4 Visit of Chief Executive 6 Presentation and Theory Seminar 7 OUP New Publications 8 ABRSM New Publications 9 Getting To Know You 10 Message from the PFB Managing Director Announcement 11 Pathways to Professional Development with ABRSM On-Line Registration Road Shows 12 Not only are the exams stressful for candidates, but for parents too. During my visits to the exam centres I observed many parents, especially mums, waiting anxiously whilst their children were undergoing their tests, and it struck me that they were just as nervous as their children if not more so! To conclude these brief observations, I would like to express my thanks and gratitude to all who helped to ensure the efficiency of the process, especially the agencies already mentioned: the Ministry of Education in Malaysia, the Local Representatives in Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, the desk officers, the stewards, the teachers and sponsors, the parents, and not forgetting the most important people of all the huge number of musicians who prepared for and took the exams. On the following pages, we feature some of the ABRSM s and PFB s recent major events, including the Professional Development Programme seminars on preparing for performance and masterclass, and on music theory, the PFB Product Presentation Day, and the visit of the ABRSM Chief Executive. We also give information about forthcoming PDP events, publications, and lots more. Dr David Young South-East Asia Regional Consultant

2 2... from the ABRSM Regional Consultant s desk... from the ABRSM Regional Consultant s desk 3 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME SEMINARS: PREPARING FOR PERFORMANCE AND MASTERCLASS Presenters: Vanessa Latarche Timothy Barratt The Professional Development Programme (PDP) seminars on Preparing for Performance and Masterclass were presented in Kuala Lumpur on 24 and 25 August, in Penang on 26 August, in Kota Kinabalu on 29 August, in Kuching on 30 August, and in Singapore on 1 and 2 September. The presenters were Vanessa Latarche and Timothy Barratt, two distinguished pianists, accompanists and chamber-music players, who are also experienced teachers, examiners, moderators and adjudicators. Timothy is a professor at the Royal Academy of Music, and Vanessa is the newly appointed Head of Keyboard at the Royal College of Music. The purpose of the seminars was to focus on preparation for performance of pieces at grades 7 and 8 and DipABRSM (Performance) and LRSM (Performance). Vanessa began by discussing common problems and challenges faced by teachers when working at the advanced levels, particularly the challenge of continuing to motivate students who have become bored with their pieces, but who need to keep working at them for the forthcoming exams. She suggested a teaching method which she likened to washing: giving the pieces a good cleaning and refreshing them. The procedure involved practising in different rhythms, different tempi, hands together, hands apart, and looking at different sections of the pieces from an analytical viewpoint. The importance of studying a range of recordings was also stressed as a means of revitalizing the imagination. Next, Vanessa offered practical advice on dealing with the day of the exam itself, ensuring that the candidates arrived at the exam centre in good time (but not too early) and in a good state of health. Finally, in this first session Vanessa spoke about the actual exams and offered advice on reaching the right mental state for these events. The session was enlivened by several recordings of piano performances as well as numerous live demonstrations at the keyboard by the presenter herself. Timothy Barratt emphasizes a point during his seminar in Kuala Lumpur. Vanessa Latarche giving encouragement to a musician during a masterclass in Kuala Lumpur. All smiles at the end of a seminar. The two presenters, Timothy Barratt (left) and Vanessa Latarche, are seen here with David Young. David Young (left) invites Vanessa Latarche and Timothy Barratt to acknowledge the applause at the conclusion of their seminars in Kuala Lumpur. enlivened by several recordings of piano performances as well as numerous live demonstrations at the keyboard. One of the most engaging features was the audience participation, when participants were encouraged to clap together certain rhythms in the pieces in question. Although the effect at first was like the aural equivalent of a Mexican wave, the ensemble improved appreciably with practice and growing confidence. The participants were further encouraged by Timothy s way of demonstrating that certain twentieth-century pieces, which at first appear intimidating both rhythmically and harmonically, could become more accessible with careful analysis, section by section, until the full beauty of the pieces was revealed. The final session of the day was in two parts. The first part was question and answer time, and a wide range of questions concerning technique, repertoire, teaching issues, and so on were dealt with helpfully and sympathetically. Each day ended with a masterclass led by Vanessa, with teacher-participants performing their prepared pieces to the assembled company. Needless to say, the courage required for such an undertaking was not insignificant, but the benefit to both performers and audience was great. Vanessa was never less than helpful and encouraging. If the proof of the pudding is in the eating, then the pudding was clearly nourishing, as evidenced by the appreciable improvement in all performances during the course of the classes. Composers represented included Bach, Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, Liszt, Schumann, Brahms, and Debussy. A comic turn, as David Young amuses participants at Kota Kinabalu. The pianos were supplied by KC United Music and Sound (Kuala Lumpur and Penang), Pang Piano Sales & Service Centre (Kota Kinabalu), Hilton Hotel (Kuching), and Gramercy Music (Singapore). The trade stands (music and books) were courtesy of Chambers Music (Kuala Lumpur), J Y Klasik (Penang), Pang Piano Sales & Service Centre (Kota Kinabalu), International Music House Sdn. Bhd. (Kuching), and Gramercy Music (Singapore). Vanessa Latarche making a point during a Penang masterclass. David Young (front row, centre) flanked by presenters Vanessa Latarche and Timothy Barratt. Also in the front row (fifth and sixth from the left) are Jo Wong and Tan Teong Hoe from Penerbit Fajar Bakti. Timothy Barratt and Vanessa Latarche with a masterclass participant from the Kuching seminar. The second and third sessions were delivered by Timothy, who examined various performance and technical issues. He covered a wide repertoire from the Baroque to the twentieth century, and, like Vanessa s, his sessions were Participants enjoying their refreshment break in the lovely surroundings of the Eastern and Oriental Hotel, Penang. In short, the seminars were a great success and provided the participants with many new ideas to incorporate in their teaching, and everyone was deeply appreciative of the inspiration provided by the two presenters. Timothy Barratt encourages participants to make use of the Board s excellent publications.

3 4... from the ABRSM Regional Consultant s desk... from the ABRSM Regional Consultant s desk 5 PRODUCT PRESENTATION DAY Main Presenters: Ben Selby, Marketing Manager, ABRSM Publishing Hermann Eckel, Export Sales Executive, OUP UK What do McDonald s supersize meals and music sales techniques have in common? The answer was given by Ben Selby and Hermann Eckel, our two engaging presenters at the annual Product Presentation Day a joint venture between Penerbit Fajar Bakti/Oxford University Press (PFB/OUP) and the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM). Ben is Marketing Manager at ABRSM Publishing and Hermann is Export Sales Executive at OUP UK. The presentation was held on 10 August at the Prince Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, with a full capacity audience, comprising music retailers, bookshop representatives, music studios, and, in one case, an ABRSM Local Representative. Everyone threw themselves into the proceedings with gusto, especially in the entertaining role-play sessions, where participants demonstrated not only business acumen but also acting abilities, sometimes from the most unlikely quarters! Based on information given during the day, the quiz (a regular, much loved feature) also proved to be highly amusing. Ben Selby introduces the seminar. factor, that is, the young musicians for whose benefit all these activities and partnerships take place. Ben Selby and Hermann Eckel proved to be highly skilled presenters, whether facilitating ice-breaking sessions, describing new ABRSM/OUP products, or leading the training sessions. With their wealth of experience in marketing, publishing, and sales they delivered a joint seminar which was informed by breadth, depth, and not a little humour. We even had a live musical demonstration (on the violin) by one of the presenters, who, in a piece admittedly less than technically demanding, demonstrated an appreciable musical awareness. There was no doubting the success of the day, and everyone expressed gratitude to Ben and Hermann for such an invaluable and entertaining event. PRODU Hermann Eckel listens to a point being made by a participant. Entering into the spirit of role play are Fan Sow Mun (Fantasia Music House) (left) and Tan Suan Yee (Yamaha Music (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.). Edda de Silva, Managing Director of Penerbit Fajar Bakti, delivers the opening address. Behind the enjoyable activities, the laughter and the food, however, was a serious purpose: to put across a message that the most effective way of providing a service to teachers and students was through partnerships between the key stakeholders of publishers, distributors, retailers, teachers, and students. In her opening speech, Edda de Silva, Managing Director of PFB, spoke of the educational products which were the main focus of the day, the educational service which was being provided through the unique partnership between PFB/OUP and the ABRSM, and the opportunity which the day provided for networking. Dr David Young, ABRSM s South-East Asia Regional Consultant, then spoke about the continuum between the various stakeholders, ending with the most important As a postscript, readers who were intrigued by the opening sentence about the McDonald s supersize meals will wish to know that this (as demonstrated by Ben and Hermann) represents a sales technique for persuading consumers to buy extra ingredients with their basic purchase. Hence the analogy with music sales, whereby effective retailers encourage customers to consider other essential purchases to complement the initial items. Ben Selby demonstrates his prowess as a violinist while Hermann Eckel becomes a music stand. A group photo of some of the participants. Participants deep in discussion during one of the break-out Participants in rapt attention to the points being made sessions while Hermann Eckel (standing, centre) takes a photo. by Ben Selby and Hermann Eckel.

4 6... from the ABRSM Regional Consultant s desk... from the ABRSM Regional Consultant s desk 7 VISIT OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE Richard Morris shows an example from Music Medals during the press conference in Kuala Lumpur. Richard Morris signs the record of agreement for the donation of books and music at Jogja High School. The Chief Executive of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, Richard Morris, visited Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore between 22 October and 1 November, in order to spend time with the South-East Asia Regional Consultant, Dr David Young, hold talks with key stakeholders in the region, and, jointly with the Consultant (see page 7), give presentations and seminars in Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta and Singapore. In an action-packed period, Mr Morris and Dr Young held talks with the Local Representatives in the three countries visited; with the Chief Executive Officer, Associate Conductor and members of the outreach and education section of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra; with the Managing Director and Sales and Marketing Director of Penerbit Fajar Bakti; and with music and instrument retailers in the region. There was also a visit to a music high school in Jogja and attendance at a high scorers concert in Kuching. Press conferences were held in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Discussions at the Ministry of Education, who serve as the Board s Local Representative in Malaysia, centred on educational matters, such as the place of Western music in Malaysian schools, operational matters, such as the developments in on-line registrations and results for theory and practical exams, as well as plans for the 50-year jubilee celebration of the Examinations Syndicate to be held in June More generally, the visit served to strengthen further the excellent working relationship between the Board and the Ministry. The meeting at the Dewan Filharmonic Petronas with key personnel from the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra proved to be a most fruitful exchange, during which several opportunities arose for future collaboration in a range of areas; these will be followed up in meetings between the Regional Consultant and members of the education and outreach sections of the Orchestra. The High Scorers Concert in Kuching, organized by the Sarawak Music Society Chairman: Peggy Wong involved around 40 young musicians performing pieces from the recent grades 1-8 exams, on piano, violin and guitar. Mr Morris gave the main opening speech and he and Richard Morris delivers the opening speech at the High Scorers Concert, Kuching. Performers and members of the audience eagerly await the start of the High Scorers Concert, Kuching. Dr Young presented certificates and badges at the end. The Indonesian part of the visit provided an invaluable opportunity A study in concentration for Mr Morris to hold detailed during this guitar discussions with our Local performance at the High Scorers Concert, Representative in Indonesia, Kuching. Denis Umar and his assistant Ineke Umar. The hospitality provided by Denis and Ineke was as generous as ever, and the visit was made even more enjoyable by cultural visits to ancient temples as well as to the Sultan s palace in Jogja. One of the highlights of the tour was the visit to Jogja High School, a state specialist music school for pupils aged between fourteen and eighteen. Judging by the standards of the large symphony orchestra and choir as well as the excellent facilities, the school is flourishing and providing a first-class gateway to classical music for its talented and committed pupils. Mr Morris presented a book and music donation from the Board to the School, and he and Dr Young made speeches before and after the orchestral and choral concert which was given in their honour. The main business of the Singapore visit was, apart from the presentation and seminar, meetings with Chng Kai Jin, General Manager of the Singapore Symphonia, and Su-San Hay, who manages the ABRSM exams in Singapore. The subjects covered were both wide ranging and highly significant. Equally important, and typically, the meeting served to strengthen further the excellent working relationship between the Board and one of its key stakeholders. In short, the visit of the Chief Executive was of the first importance and reflects the high value which the Board attaches to this part of the world where demand for musical education continues to grow and where the ABRSM is held in such high esteem. Surrounded by performers at the end of the High Scorers Concert, Kuching, are (seated, second row, left to right) Peggy Wong, Richard Morris and David Young. PRESENTATION AND THEORY SEMINAR IN KUALA LUMPUR, JAKARTA AND SINGAPORE Richard Morris, Chief Executive of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, and Dr David Young, the Board s South-East Asia Regional Consultant, gave a joint presentation and seminar in Kuala Lumpur (at the Prince Hotel, 24 October), Jakarta (at the Aryaduta Hotel, 28 October) and Singapore (at the Young Musicians Society, 31 October). All three events were well attended with teachers keen to be brought up to date with the latest developments and to gain fresh insight into the effective teaching of music theory. Mr Morris began his presentation with a brief description of the Board s mission, main activities and the accreditation of its exams. He then described the record number of exam entries throughout the world in 2004/05. The rest of the presentation was taken up with important information about the following topics: Syllabus Review Conduct of Exams Exams Administration Jazz Music Medals E-Learning, especially Sound Junction ( Publications Backlist, Forthcoming and Future Professional Development. Any reader who wishes to know more about these subjects should contact the Board s South-East Asia Regional Consultant, Dr David Young at: dyoung@abrsm.ac.uk Dr Young s seminar on Achieving Good Results in Theory Grades 1-5: Integrating Theory and Practice began with a discussion of the three ways of teaching music theory: 1. As a discrete subject 2. As an essential part of the practical lesson 3. As a combination of 1. and 2. The pros and cons of each approach were considered, followed by a recommendation to integrate the teaching of theory and practice as closely as possible. The next part of the seminar was taken up with a brief discussion of the elements which make up music theory and analysis. The third, and main part, was devoted to illustrations of the way in which theory teaching can be integrated into the practical lessons, with examples taken from each of the piano grades 1-5, which Dr Young demonstrated at the piano. After the refreshment break, participants were invited to take part in a practical exercise based on the principles outlined during the course of the morning. Music trades displays were provided in Kuala Lumpur (by Yamaha) and in Jakarta (by Yasmi), and these provided an excellent opportunity for participants to buy the books and music recommended by the presenters. Evidence of the success of the event as a whole was apparent from the large number of questions asked, either during the refreshment break or at the end, as well as the many urgent requests for yet more seminars. The Associated Board is committed to its educational programme, especially through the Professional Development Programme and related seminars, as a way of helping teachers throughout the world not only to keep up to date with changes in the syllabus but also to gain a wider understanding of music in all its aspects. David Young in action during his theory seminar in Kuala Lumpur. Su-San Hay (left) in conversation with David Young (centre) and Richard Morris following the Presentation and Seminar in Singapore. Richard Morris delivers his presentation in Kuala Lumpur. Participants pay close attention to Richard Morris s presentation in Kuala Lumpur. Teachers marching on the spot during the theory seminar in Kuala Lumpur. Richard Morris in conversation with two teachers after his presentation in Kuala Lumpur.

5 8 OUP Publications ABRSM Publications 9 Publications Publications Viola Time By Kathy and David Blackwell Viola Time is packed with the same lively original tunes, easy duets, and traditional pieces as the hugely successful Fiddle Time books. With attractive covers and entertaining illustrations, viola practice will be more fun than ever before. VIOLA TIME JOGGERS Compatible with Fiddle Time Joggers 44 of the 47 tunes may be played together by viola and violin, either in unison, in octaves, or with the ensemble parts provided Open string pieces and tunes using the finger pattern C string specials Extra pieces to give plenty of practice on the C string Easy duets CD with performances of all of the pieces Bass and drums added for the jazz and rock numbers Piano accompaniments provided in Joggers Piano Book VIOLA TIME RUNNERS Compatible with Fiddle Time Runners All of the tunes may be played together by viola and violin, either in unison, or with the ensemble parts provided Pieces using the finger patterns and C string specials Extra pieces to give plenty of practice on the C string Duets, with parts of equal difficulty CD with performances of all of the pieces Bass and drums added for the jazz and rock numbers Piano accompaniments provided in Runners Piano Book VIOLA TIME Viola Time Joggers RM39.90 Viola Time Runners RM39.90 Fiddle Time An exciting series for young violinists FIDDLE TIME Fiddle Time Starters RM22.90 Fiddle Time Joggers X RM49.90 Fiddle Time Runners RM49.90 Fiddle Time Sprinters RM49.90 Fiddle Time Scales RM28.90 Fiddle Time Scales RM29.90 Fiddle Time Christmas RM29.90 THEORY OF MUSIC PAPERS Past Theory of Music Papers offer essential practice material for all Associated Board theory candidates. Each volume contains the four separate papers from the Theory of Music Exams set in Theory of Music Examination Papers Grade 1 RM Grade 2 RM Grade 3 RM Grade 4 RM Grade 5 RM Grade 6 RM X Grade 7 RM Grade 8 RM19.90 SIXTY FOR SAX Sixty progressive studies for unaccompanied saxophone by Alan Bullard 60 studies for unaccompanied saxophone Grades 1-8 Suitable for E flat and B flat saxophones Includes repertoire selected for the new ABRSM Saxophone syllabus from 2006 Sixty for Sax is an indispensable collection of sixty progressive studies for unaccompanied saxophone. Suitable for E flat and B flat instruments, the attractive and enjoyable pieces reflect many different moods and vibes. The book systematically covers aspects of technique, in order of difficulty from Grades 1 to 8, and is carefully paced to provide lots of material at each level. Students will enjoy the easy laid-back rhythm of Sax Swings Out, the gentle waltz melody of Dancing Sax, the lively and up-beat Festival Sax, and the jazz-club atmosphere of Smokey Sax. It all adds up to a fabulous variety of repertoire in classical, jazz, and other contemporary styles for teachers and their students. MUSIC MEDALS RECORDER ENSEMBLE PIECES The Recorder Ensemble Pieces are five volumes of enjoyable and accessible repertoire for the developing ensemble. Progressively graded Copper, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum they contain original pieces and imaginative arrangements for duets, trios and quartets from beginner level upwards. Covering a wide variety of styles, the volumes provide excellent material for mixed-ability groups as well as being an exciting resource for the individual player. Fun pieces and arrangements in various styles Ideal for group teaching and classroom work Five progressively graded volumes from beginner level All pieces selected for the Associated Board s Music Copper, Bronze and Silver levels available in packs of 10 Recorder Ensemble Pieces Copper RM Bronze RM Silver RM Gold RM Platinum RM41.90 Packs of 10: Copper RM Bronze RM Silver RM RM46.90

6 10 GETTING TO KNOW YOU PFB/ABRSM SUPPORT 11 DENIS UMAR The ABRSM is fortunate to have dedicated and loyal Local Representatives for each of the South-East Asian countries where the Board s activities take place. In this edition the spotlight falls on Denis Umar, who is the Board s Local Representative for Indonesia. Mr Umar is interviewed by Dr David Young, the Board s South-East Asia Regional Consultant. Dr Young: Could you say something about your education where you went to school and university, what you specialized in, and so on? Mr Umar: I was born and brought up in Jakarta, where I went to school. I showed a particular interest in the sciences, as a result of which I won a place at the University of Toronto to study one year in Arts & Sciences and four years in chemical engineering. I very much enjoyed my five years in Canada, and learned a great deal from my studies there. Dr Young: I believe you won a scholarship for your university studies. Did you also have to work to pay your way, and, if so, doing what? Mr Umar: No, I did not win a scholarship. My parents paid for my fees and some of my maintenance, but, as is so often the case with students, then as now, I had to do some work to help pay my way. I remember doing vacation work as a taxi driver, and also as an office cleaner one certainly had to be adaptable! Dr Young: What about early musical experiences and interests? Mr Umar: My parents loved classical music, though they did not play any instrument, but it was certainly through them that I was introduced to music. As a child, I had three years of piano lessons, after which, I m afraid, I lost interest, probably because of unsuitable teaching. I also had a few months lessons on the violin. But it was so boring that I played hide-and-seek with my teacher. I hid when he fell asleep after asking me to play scales, and my father had to seek me when both the teacher and he did not see me. I was then flying a kite on the roof! However, I ve retained a love of music, even though I no longer play any musical instrument. Dr Young: What did you do after university? Mr Umar: I joined the family business. My father kept a music shop and ran a music school in Surabaya, and he asked me to help. It was here, incidentally, that I met a certain young woman who also worked in the shop and school as assistant to my father. You can probably guess who this was Ineke, my wife and mother of our three sons! Dr Young: How did your experiences in the family music shop and music school affect you and the direction in which you moved? Mr Umar: Well, I learned something about the music retail business, of course, and I made contact with a large number of music teachers. At that time, there were no ABRSM exams in Indonesia, and so pupils had to travel to Singapore to take their exams. It was because of this situation that the idea was mooted to hold exams in Indonesia. Dr Young: How did you go about furthering the idea of introducing ABRSM exams to Indonesia? Denis the Family Man. Denis Umar (with niece, Cindy), Merwin, Ineke, Delwin, and Hadwin. Mr Umar: Ms Jean Jones, who administered the ABRSM international operations at the time 14 June 1978 invited me to become the Board s Local Representative in Indonesia, with the task of setting up exam centres in the country. One year before, the first ABRSM exams had been held in Surabaya; the examiner was Ruth Gerald, who examined 134 candidates between 3 and 7 October Dr Young: How did the exams develop from there? Mr Umar: With the passing of time, more centres were set up throughout the country. The number of candidates also increased correspondingly. To take the last ten years only, in 1996, two examiners worked in Indonesia, but in 2005, there are eight examiners working here, in eleven cities and twenty-two studios. Dr Young: I know that you are a family man. The support of your wife and family must be a great help to you. To what extent does your family assist you in your professional life? Mr Umar: I am lucky to have the support and assistance of my wife, Ineke, in both domestic and professional matters. I also have three sons, whose names all end with the letters w-i-n: what you could call a win, win, win situation! Our two elder sons assist with the music retail business and music school which we run in Surabaya, whilst our youngest son is still a student. Dr Young: What other support do you receive in your work as Local Representative in Indonesia? With such a huge geographical area to cover, you presumably value all the support and assistance you can get. Mr Umar: During the course of my work, I have always received guidance and help whenever I needed it from the staff at the London office and the South-East Asia Regional Consultant. This has helped tremendously, not only in the administration of the exams but also in the other activities in which the Board is active, especially the Professional Development seminars, the presentations and the High Scorers Concerts. The support I received from the public as well as private examination centres and the cooperation of the teachers and candidates have made possible the smooth running of both theory and practical exams. Without this support I would not have been able to operate effectively in my work as the Local Representative. Dr Young: Is there anything else you would like to say about the operation in Indonesia? Mr Umar: It is very heartening to see that so many candidates have now taken ABRSM Diploma examinations and that so many of them have become teachers themselves. I look forward to continuing the work with my many friends and colleagues to sustain and enhance the position of the ABRSM as the most respected music examination board in Indonesia and the world. MESSAGE FROM THE PFB MANAGING DIRECTOR, EDDA de SILVA When Leslie East, Director of Publishing ABRSM, read the announcement on my retirement in December 2005, he wrote me a kind to bid au revoir. He said he always felt that I had the best interests of ABRSM at heart during my years as Managing Director. Leslie is right. PFB is proud to hold the agency in Malaysia to distribute the publications of the best Music Examination Board in the world and keen to promote this list. PFB also supplies to some music dealers in Singapore. I have always taken a close personal interest in ABRSM. The ABRSM business is unique and quite different from the rest of our operations. Hence the interest and the challenge. It requires attention to detail, a close working relationship with the Regional Consultant and good rapport with music customers. We have mobilized not just our Sales Department to promote the ABRSM list but Marketing and Customer Service as well to ensure maximum exposure. Our joint promotional activities with ABRSM have been a lot of fun as seen in Upbeat. I know that the PFB staff enjoy them just as customers do. I have always been impressed by the seminars and product presentations because of the high standard as well as the enthusiasm and the knowledge demonstrated by music teachers, retailers and dealers. As a publisher, it is always a pleasure to observe this quality in customers. I have enjoyed a very good relationship with ABRSM counterparts and business associates in UK, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. I have found some close friends for life among them. I have looked forward to the reunion in Singapore in March at the South-East Asian Diploma Awards Ceremony. It always makes me realize the pivotal role that the ABRSM quietly plays in nurturing music talent in South-East Asia. ABRSM is a dynamic organization, committed to music education. The present strategy of encouraging students to go beyond the syllabus into other areas of music for enjoyment, such as jazz, is the right one. It will help instill a life-long appreciation for music. I am confident that ABRSM will continue to flourish. I wish the continued OUP/PFB/ABRSM partnership every success. Goodbye and thank you for your support. Edda de Silva Managing Director Announcement A reminder to all teachers of the Board s exam dates and registration periods for There are two theory sessions which will now take place on Mondays rather than Saturdays as follows: Theory Exam Dates Monday 13 March 2006 Monday 21 August 2006 Last Dates of Entrys 21 November June 2006 Registration Period 21 October to 21 November May to 12 June 2006 Practical Exams Diplomas April-May (KL & Penang only) All exams June-August Last Dates of Entry 8 December January 2006 Registration Periods 8 November to 8 December December 2005 to 9 January 2006 Please note that we are extending the last date of entry for online entries so that the closing date is ONE WEEK LATER and will be available to all applicants in Malaysia in 2006, as the pilot scheme run in 2005 proved to be extremely popular. The online entry system is faster and easier to use than sending in a paper entry (although paper entries will still be accepted in all states) and we hope as many teachers as possible will make use of the online system and enjoy the benefits. We are also planning to have the theory results available online for all applicants in If you would like to find out how to make an entry online, or have any questions on our online entry system, please log on to the following website ms/my/demo/making_an_entry.htm and enter your applicant number on the Online Entry page, where you will find a demonstration on how to make your entry. You can also get further information on our website or alternatively you can contact your local Education Department for more details. Best wishes for your music making in 2006!

7 12 ON-LINE REGISTRATION ROAD SHOWS Although on-line registration of theory exam applications (and on-line registration of theory exam results) may not appear to be the most exciting topic in the world, it is, nevertheless, an important development. The ABRSM is keen to ensure that as many applications as possible are made by this means, as both an aid to efficiency for the Board, and, more importantly, as a convenient method for applicants. The on-line entry system was piloted for Malaysia in Penang in 2003 for the practical exams, and gradually the system has been extended to the other states and federal territories for both practical and theory exams. In order to ensure that the system was understood fully by both desk officers and applicants, Puan Nawal bt Salleh, Head of External Examinations at the Ministry of Education, held a series of road shows in the states of Kedah, Perak, Johore, Melaka (with Negeri Sembilan) and Terengganu (with Pahang and Kelantan). These events were most successful, in that the demonstrations were clear and effective, participants were given the opportunity to undertake a mock on-line application and to ask questions. Thanks and congratulations go to Nawal for her expertise in coordinating and leading these events. Penerbit Fajar Bakti Sdn. Bhd. ( T) No. 4 Jalan Pemaju U1/15, Seksyen U1, Hicom-Glenmarie Industrial Park, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Tel : (ext.247, Jo Wong) : (Customer Service direct line) Fax : (General) : (Customer Service) wongml@pfb.com.my Website: PATHWAYS TO PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH ABRSM: SETTING THE STANDARDS We are pleased to highlight forthcoming Professional Development events for the year 2006 to help you keep abreast with our programmes. Teaching Music Effectively (TME) This brand new Professional Development course for teachers is coming to Singapore in Launched in the UK in 2005, it provides an opportunity for teachers to focus on making their work as effective as possible, through seminars and workshop sessions led by experienced teacher-mentors from the UK. Readers should keep an eye on the ABRSM website for further details, including confirmation of dates, venue and presenters. Professional Development Programme (PDP) seminar Subject: Piano syllabus grades 5-8, and insights into the new syllabus. An opportunity to find out more about the higher grade pieces in order to choose the best pieces for your pupil s exam. Presenter: Anthony Williams Anthony Williams is Head of Keyboard and Assistant Director of Music at Radley College. Though an experienced and busy performer, his first commitment is to teaching and to encouraging young pianists. He presents teaching seminars both in the UK and abroad and has co-written two of the Teaching Notes books to accompany the current AB piano exam syllabus. Anthony is an Associated Board Examiner and Trainer, an experienced adjudicator, and tutors on the Young Pianists Course at the Hereford International Summer School. Venue: Grand Plaza Park Royal Hotel, Singapore Date: 27 March 2006 Grand Plaza Park Royal Hotel, Singapore 28 March 2006 Prince Hotel, Kuala Lumpur 29 March 2006 Professional Development Programme (PDP) seminar Subject: New piano syllabus. A detailed look at the new piano syllabus. Presenter: Mark Ray Mark Ray studied at the Royal Northern College of Music, University of Manchester and Salzburg Mozarteum. He has performed as a soloist, chamber musician and accompanist, including broadcasts on BBC and Granada television and in concerts in major London venues. He has taught piano for twenty years, and his pupils have ranged from children to postgraduate students. Mark has written articles on teaching and contributed to the forthcoming ABRSM publication All Together! He has held a number of posts in music education and has been Head of School of Keyboard Studies at the Royal Northern College of Music since He is an ABRSM examiner, CT ABRSM mentor in the UK and has given masterclasses in the UK, the Ukraine, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia. Venue: Aryaduta Hotel, Jakarta Date: 24 August 2006 Eastern and Oriental Hotel, Penang 25 August 2006 Prince Hotel, Kuala Lumpur 26 August 2006 Prince Hotel, Kuala Lumpur 27 August 2006 Merdeka Hotel, Kuching 29 August 2006 Sutera Harbour Hotel, Kota Kinabalu 30 August 2006 Grand Plaza Park Royal Hotel, Singapore 1 September 2006 Grand Plaza Park Royal Hotel, Singapore 2 September 2006 Information on these events can be found in the PDP booking form which will be posted to teachers soon. Further details can be obtained from Jo Wong (wongml@pfb.com.my) in Malaysia or Agnes Lau (alau_sg@abrsm.ac.uk) in Singapore.