Family Progress System

Tony RCM Piano Certificate Plan

A bilingual roadmap for RCM piano certificate readiness, repertoire, theory, history, and harmony.

Tony RCM Piano Certificate Plan / Tony RCM 钢琴证书计划

1. Starting Point / 当前起点

Student: Tony Observed level: close to RCM Level 10 performance range Known repertoire indicators: Chopin Etude op. 10 no. 5 "Black Keys", Mozart "Turkish March" / Rondo alla Turca level repertoire Family goal: earn an RCM certificate, ideally in a way that creates a real credential and a healthy musical growth path Planning date: 2026-05-18

Tony already has advanced technical ability. Being able to play pieces like "Black Keys" and "Turkish March" well suggests that he is not starting from a typical beginner-to-intermediate RCM path. The question is not whether he can play hard notes. The question is whether he can prepare an exam-standard program with consistent technique, stylistic range, sight reading, ear training, theory, and written/history requirements.

Tony 现在的钢琴能力已经接近高级阶段。他能比较好地演奏 Black Keys 和土耳其进行曲，说明手指技术、速度、舞台记忆和音乐理解都有基础。接下来要解决的不是“能不能弹难曲”，而是能不能把能力整理成 RCM 认可的完整证书路径：曲目、技术、视奏、听力、理论、历史与和声都要形成闭环。

2. Important RCM Reality Check / RCM 现实要求

RCM Level 10 Comprehensive Certificate is not only a practical piano exam. According to the current RCM US certificate requirements, a Level 10 comprehensive certificate requires:

  • Level 10 Practical.
  • Level 8 Theory.
  • Level 9 History.
  • Level 9 Harmony or Level 9 Keyboard Harmony.
  • Level 10 History.
  • Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint or Level 10 Keyboard Harmony.

RCM also states that candidates working toward the Level 10 certificate or ARCT diploma must complete theory co-requisites before or within five years of the practical examination.

中文解释：

RCM Level 10 Comprehensive Certificate 不是只弹一场钢琴 practical exam。它需要 practical 加一整套 theory/history/harmony co-requisites。Tony 如果直接冲 Level 10 practical，很可能演奏部分可以很快准备，但证书本身会被理论与历史科目拖住。所以我们要把计划分成两条线并行：

  • Performance track: 准备 Level 10 practical 的曲目、技术、视奏、听力。
  • Academic track: 补 Level 8 Theory、Level 9/10 History、Level 9/10 Harmony 或 Keyboard Harmony。

I recommend a two-stage plan:

Stage 1: Diagnostic and Credential Strategy

Duration: 4-6 weeks.

Goals:

  • Confirm Tony's true RCM practical level.
  • Decide whether to register directly for Level 10 practical or use Level 8/9 as a checkpoint.
  • Assess theory readiness.
  • Build the long-term certificate timeline.

Decision point:

Option When It Makes Sense Pros Risks
Direct Level 10 practical Tony can prepare five contrasting pieces, two etudes, technique, sight reading, and ear tests at exam standard Fastest path to advanced credential Theory/history/harmony may delay comprehensive certificate
Level 8 or Level 9 first Tony has performance ability but not RCM exam habits Builds official exam experience and confidence Takes longer
Level 10 split exam Repertoire is strong but technique/musicianship need separate focus Reduces pressure by separating repertoire from technical/musicianship sections Must finish both parts within RCM's time window

My default recommendation:

Do a 4-6 week RCM diagnostic with a teacher, then aim for Level 10 practical only if Tony can score comfortably above pass level in mock technique, sight reading, and ear tests. If sight reading/theory is behind, use Level 8 Theory and Level 9 materials immediately while still preparing the Level 10 repertoire.

我的建议：

先不要马上报名。先做 4-6 周诊断。如果 Tony 的曲目表现强，但视奏、听力、技术细节还不稳定，就不要把考试变成压力事件。先把 RCM exam skill 补起来。如果 mock exam 显示他不只是会弹难曲，而是各科目都稳，再直接冲 Level 10。

4. Level 10 Practical Requirements / Level 10 演奏考试结构

RCM Piano Syllabus 2022 Edition lists Level 10 practical as a 100-mark exam with these broad areas:

Area Marks What Tony Must Prepare
Repertoire 56 Five contrasting selections, one from each Level 10 list A-E
Technical Requirements 24 Etudes and technical tests
Ear Tests 10 Intervals, chords, chord progressions, playback
Sight Reading 10 Rhythm and playing

For Level 10, repertoire should represent five different lists:

  • List A: works by J.S. Bach.
  • List B: Classical repertoire.
  • List C: Romantic repertoire.
  • List D: Post-Romantic, 20th-, and 21st-century repertoire.
  • List E: Concert etudes.

The RCM syllabus also notes memory deductions in Level 10 repertoire. Practically, Tony should plan to memorize the entire program unless a teacher has a strategic reason not to.

中文说明：

RCM Level 10 practical 是完整音乐能力考试，不是 recital。Tony 需要准备：

  • 五首不同风格曲目。
  • 两首 etudes 或对应技术类曲目。
  • Scales, chords, arpeggios 等技术测试。
  • Ear tests。
  • Sight reading。

Black Keys 可以作为 List E / concert etude 方向的重要候选，但是否放进正式 program，需要老师按 RCM syllabus 确认版本、list 归属和考试适配度。土耳其进行曲更像证明他古典风格与速度控制能力的参考，但是否作为正式曲目也要依照 RCM list 确认。

5. Gap Analysis / 差距分析

Strengths / 优势

  • Advanced technique: Black Keys indicates fast fingerwork, lightness, lateral keyboard movement, and endurance.
  • Memorization ability: Performing show pieces suggests Tony can hold long passages in memory.
  • Performance personality: If he enjoys challenging music, he may respond well to goal-based preparation.
  • Discipline from chess: Tony already knows long-term competitive preparation from chess; this can transfer to piano.

Likely gaps / 可能短板

  • RCM list balance: He may know impressive pieces but not a balanced five-list program.
  • Baroque clarity: Bach demands voicing, structure, rhythm, and articulation discipline different from Chopin.
  • Sight reading: Advanced players who learn hard pieces by practice can still underperform in sight reading.
  • Ear tests: This is often undertrained if the focus has been repertoire.
  • Theory/history/harmony: Level 10 comprehensive certificate requires significant written work.
  • Exam polish: RCM exam standards reward consistency, style, tone, pacing, and recovery from small slips.

Parent interpretation / 家长怎么理解

Tony 可能已经有“能弹很难的东西”的能力，但 RCM 需要“完整、稳定、可评分”的能力。这个区别很关键。我们不要只问“他能不能弹 Black Keys”，而要问：

  • 他能不能弹 Bach 并让每个声部清楚？
  • 他能不能在 mock exam 中一次性完成五首曲目？
  • 他能不能在压力下完成技术、听力、视奏？
  • 他能不能系统完成 theory/history/harmony？

6. Repertoire Planning / 曲目规划

Tony needs a program that shows range, not only speed.

Program architecture

List Goal Selection Strategy
A: Bach clarity, structure, voicing Choose a piece that forces contrapuntal discipline but is realistic under exam pressure
B: Classical form, timing, articulation Choose a sonata movement or classical work that shows clean phrasing
C: Romantic tone, rubato, long line Choose something lyrical or dramatic that contrasts with the etude
D: 20th/21st century color, rhythm, modern language Choose a work with clear character and manageable notation
E: Concert etude virtuosity and control Black Keys may be a strong candidate if syllabus-eligible and exam-ready

What not to do

  • Do not choose five pieces simply because they are hard.
  • Do not overload the program with fast/loud pieces.
  • Do not pick a Bach piece at the edge of control.
  • Do not let Black Keys consume all practice time.
  • Do not ignore sight reading until the final month.

Teacher checkpoint

Ask Tony's piano teacher to classify each current piece:

Piece RCM List/Level Exam-ready? Main risk
Black Keys To confirm Maybe evenness, lightness, control under pressure
Turkish March To confirm Maybe articulation, tempo control, classical style
Current Bach Needed Unknown voicing and rhythm
Current Romantic lyrical work Needed Unknown tone and phrase shape
Current modern work Needed Unknown rhythm, color, accuracy

Appendix A. RCM Level 10 Complete Repertoire Checklist / RCM 10 级完整曲目清单

Source: RCM Piano Syllabus, 2022 Edition, Level 10 Complete Repertoire. This working checklist keeps the composer, work, and required movement/selection information, while omitting publisher codes and page numbers. Before registration, verify the final program against the current official RCM syllabus and Tony's teacher.

说明：下面是给 Tony 页面使用的 RCM Level 10 曲目工作清单，按 List A-E 整理。正式报名之前，仍然要以 RCM 官网最新 syllabus 和老师确认结果为准。

List A: Works by J.S. Bach
Composer Work Required selection
J.S. Bach Capriccio sopra la lontananza del fratello dilettissimo, BWV 992 4th, 5th, and 6th movements
J.S. Bach English Suite No. 2 in A Minor, BWV 807 Allemande and Gigue
J.S. Bach English Suite No. 4 in F Major, BWV 809 Allemande and Gigue
J.S. Bach Fantasia and Fugue in C Minor, BWV 906 Fantasia in C Minor
J.S. Bach French Suite No. 3 in B Minor, BWV 814 Allemande and Gigue
J.S. Bach French Suite No. 5 in G Major, BWV 816 Allemande and Gigue
J.S. Bach French Suite No. 6 in E Major, BWV 817 Allemande and Gigue
J.S. Bach Overture in the French Style, BWV 831 Sarabande and Echo
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in C Major, BWV 846
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in D Major, BWV 850
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 851
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in E Major, BWV 854
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in E Minor, BWV 855
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in F Major, BWV 856
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in F sharp Major, BWV 858
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in F sharp Minor, BWV 859
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in G Minor, BWV 861
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in A flat Major, BWV 862
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in G sharp Minor, BWV 863
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in B flat Major, BWV 866
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1 Prelude and Fugue in B Major, BWV 868
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in C Major, BWV 870
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in C Minor, BWV 871
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in C sharp Major, BWV 872
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 875
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in E flat Major, BWV 876
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in D sharp Minor, BWV 877
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in E Major, BWV 878
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in E Minor, BWV 879
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in F Minor, BWV 881
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in G Major, BWV 884
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in A Major, BWV 888
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in A Minor, BWV 889
J.S. Bach The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Prelude and Fugue in B Minor, BWV 893
List B: Classical Repertoire
Composer Work Required selection
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in F Minor, op. 2, no. 1 1st and 2nd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in F Minor, op. 2, no. 1 3rd and 4th movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in C Minor, op. 10, no. 1 1st and 2nd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in C Minor, op. 10, no. 1 2nd and 3rd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in F Major, op. 10, no. 2 1st and 2nd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in F Major, op. 10, no. 2 2nd and 3rd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in E Major, op. 14, no. 1 1st and 2nd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in E Major, op. 14, no. 1 2nd and 3rd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in G Major, op. 14, no. 2 1st and 2nd movements
Ludwig van Beethoven Sonata in G Major, op. 14, no. 2 2nd and 3rd movements
Muzio Clementi Sonata in B flat Major, op. 47, no. 2 / op. 24, no. 2 1st and 2nd movements
Muzio Clementi Sonata in B flat Major, op. 47, no. 2 / op. 24, no. 2 2nd and 3rd movements
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in E Major, Hob. XVI:31 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in B Minor, Hob. XVI:32 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in D Major, Hob. XVI:33 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in C Major, Hob. XVI:35 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in C sharp Minor, Hob. XVI:36 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in G Minor, Hob. XVI:44 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in C Major, Hob. XVI:48 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in D Major, Hob. XVI:51 Complete
Franz Joseph Haydn Sonata in D Major, Hob. XVI:19 1st and 2nd movements
W.A. Mozart Fantasia in C Minor, K 475 Complete
W.A. Mozart Sonata in F Major, K 280 / K 189e 1st and 2nd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in F Major, K 280 / K 189e 2nd and 3rd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in B flat Major, K 281 1st and 2nd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in B flat Major, K 281 2nd and 3rd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in E flat Major, K 282 / K 189g Complete
W.A. Mozart Sonata in C Major, K 309 1st and 2nd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in C Major, K 309 2nd and 3rd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in F Major, K 332 1st and 2nd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in F Major, K 332 2nd and 3rd movements
W.A. Mozart Sonata in B flat Major, K 570 2nd and 3rd movements
List C: Romantic Repertoire
Composer Work Required selection
Charles-Valentin Alkan Esquisses, op. 63, Première suite Confidence, no. 9
Johannes Brahms Ballade in D Minor, op. 10, no. 1 Complete
Johannes Brahms Ballade in B Major, op. 10, no. 4 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in A Major, op. 76, no. 6 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in E Major, op. 116, no. 6 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in E flat Major, op. 117, no. 1 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in B flat Minor, op. 117, no. 2 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in C sharp Minor, op. 117, no. 3 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in F Minor, op. 118, no. 4 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in E Minor, op. 119, no. 2 Complete
Johannes Brahms Intermezzo in C Major, op. 119, no. 3 Complete
Johannes Brahms Romance in F Major, op. 118, no. 5 Complete
Teresa Carreño Le sommeil de l'enfant / Berceuse, op. 35 Complete
Emmanuel Chabrier 10 Pièces pittoresques Idylle, no. 6
Emmanuel Chabrier 10 Pièces pittoresques Scherzo-Valse, no. 10
Frédéric Chopin Mazurka in A Minor, op. 17, no. 4 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Mazurka in B flat Minor, op. 24, no. 4 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Mazurkas, op. 33 Mazurka in C Major, no. 3, and Mazurka in B Minor, no. 4
Frédéric Chopin Mazurka in B Major, op. 63, no. 1 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Nocturne in B flat Minor, op. 9, no. 1 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Nocturne in F Major, op. 15, no. 1 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Nocturne in F sharp Major, op. 15, no. 2 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Nocturne in A flat Major, op. 32, no. 2 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Nocturne in E Minor, op. posth. 72, no. 1 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Polonaise in C sharp Minor, op. 26, no. 1 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Polonaise in A Major, op. 40, no. 1 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Polonaise in G sharp Minor, op. posth., B 6 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Prelude in A flat Major, op. 28, no. 17 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Prelude in C sharp Minor, op. 45 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Waltz in A flat Major, op. 34, no. 1 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Waltz in E Minor, op. posth., B 56 Complete
Frédéric Chopin Trois écossaises, op. posth. 72, no. 3 Complete
Antonín Dvorak Zwei Klavierstücke Capriccio in G Minor, no. 2
Louis Moreau Gottschalk Ojos criollos, op. 37 Complete
Louis Moreau Gottschalk Pasquinade / Caprice, op. 59 Complete
Edvard Grieg Lyric Pieces, op. 57 Vanished Days, no. 1
Edvard Grieg Lyric Pieces, op. 65 Wedding Day at Troldhaugen, no. 6
Edvard Grieg Scenes of Country Life, op. 19 Bridal Procession, no. 2, with repeat
Fanny Hensel Lieder für Klavier, op. 8 Allegro moderato, no. 1
Fanny Hensel Lieder für Klavier, op. 8 Wanderlied, no. 4
Fanny Hensel Vier Lieder, op. 6 Andante cantabile, no. 3
Marie Jaëll Six esquisses romantiques Les ombres, no. 1
Marie Jaëll Six esquisses romantiques Contraste, no. 5
Josephine Lang Lied ohne Worte, op. 35 Lied ohne Worte, no. 1
Franz Liszt Liebestraum No. 1, S 541/1 Complete
Franz Liszt Années de pèlerinage, 2, S 161 Canzonetta del Salvator Rosa
Franz Liszt Consolations, S 172 Consolation No. 3
Franz Liszt Consolations, S 172 Consolation No. 6
Franz Liszt Kleine Klavierstücke, S 192 Klavierstücke No. 2
Franz Liszt Valses oubliées, S 215 Valse oubliée No. 1
Edward MacDowell Woodland Sketches, op. 51 To a Water Lily, no. 6
Felix Mendelssohn Allegro in E Minor, op. 117 Complete
Felix Mendelssohn Song without Words, op. 53, no. 1 Complete
Felix Mendelssohn Spinning Song, op. 67, no. 4 Complete
Franz Schubert Moments musicaux, op. 94, D 780 Andantino, no. 2
Franz Schubert Moments musicaux, op. 94, D 780 Moderato, no. 4
Franz Schubert Vier Impromptus für Klavier, op. 90, D 899 Impromptu in E flat Major, no. 2
Franz Schubert Vier Impromptus für Klavier, op. 90, D 899 Impromptu in G flat Major, no. 3
Franz Schubert Vier Impromptus für Klavier, op. 90, D 899 Impromptu in A flat Major, no. 4
Franz Schubert Vier Impromptus für Klavier, op. 142, D 935 Impromptu in B flat Major, no. 3
Franz Schubert Vier Impromptus für Klavier, op. 142, D 935 Impromptu in F Minor, no. 4
Clara Schumann Romance in E flat Minor, op. 11, no. 1 Complete
Clara Schumann Quatre pièces fugitives, op. 15 Andante espressivo, no. 3
Robert Schumann Arabeske, op. 18 Complete
Robert Schumann Intermezzo, op. 4, no. 5 Complete
Robert Schumann Fantasiestücke, op. 12 Aufschwung, no. 2
Robert Schumann Faschingsschwank aus Wien, op. 26 Intermezzo, no. 4
Robert Schumann Novelletten, op. 21 No. 1 or no. 7
Robert Schumann Waldszenen, op. 82 Vogel als Prophet, no. 7
Maria Szymanowska Nocturne in B flat Major Complete
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky 12 morceaux, op. 40 Mazurka in C Major, no. 4
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky 12 morceaux, op. 40 Au village, no. 7
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky 12 morceaux, op. 40 Valse in A flat Major, no. 8
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky 12 morceaux, op. 40 Danse russe, no. 10
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky 12 morceaux, op. 40 Rêverie interrompue, no. 12
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky 18 morceaux, op. 72 Passé lointain, no. 17
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky The Seasons, op. 37b February / The Carnival, no. 2
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky The Seasons, op. 37b July / The Reaper's Song, no. 7
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky The Seasons, op. 37b August / The Harvest, no. 8
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky The Seasons, op. 37b November / In the Troika, no. 11
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky The Seasons, op. 37b December / Christmas, no. 12
Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky Six morceaux, op. 19 Capriccioso in B flat Major, no. 5
List D: Post-Romantic, Impressionist, and Early 20th-Century Repertoire
Composer Work Required selection
Isaac Albéniz Cantos de España, op. 232 Córdoba, no. 4
Isaac Albéniz Suite española, op. 47 Cádiz, no. 4
Achille Alférak Sérénade levantine, op. 25, no. 3 Complete
Amy Beach A Hermit Thrush at Eve, op. 92, no. 1 Complete
Amy Beach Four Sketches, op. 15 In Autumn, no. 1
Amy Beach Trois morceaux caractéristiques, op. 28 Barcarolle, no. 1
Mel Bonis Cinq pièces pour piano Desdémona, op. 101
Mel Bonis Cinq pièces pour piano Mélisande, op. 109
Mel Bonis Cinq pièces pour piano Viviane, op. 80
Lili Boulanger Trois morceaux Cortège, no. 3
Cécile Chaminade Nocturne in B Major, op. 165 Complete
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor The Bamboula, op. 59, no. 8 Complete
Claude Debussy La plus que lente Complete
Claude Debussy Deux arabesques Arabesque No. 1
Claude Debussy Deux arabesques Arabesque No. 2
Claude Debussy Children's Corner Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum, no. 1
Claude Debussy Children's Corner The Snow is Dancing, no. 4
Claude Debussy Pour le piano Sarabande
Claude Debussy Préludes, Book 1 Danseuses de Delphes, no. 1
Claude Debussy Préludes, Book 1 Des pas sur la neige, no. 6
Claude Debussy Préludes, Book 1 La sérénade interrompue, no. 9
Claude Debussy Préludes, Book 2 Feuilles mortes, no. 2
Claude Debussy Préludes, Book 2 Bruyères, no. 5
Claude Debussy Préludes, Book 2 General Lavine-eccentric, no. 6
Claude Debussy Préludes, Book 2 Hommage à S. Pickwick, Esq., no. 9
Claude Debussy Suite bergamasque Prélude, no. 1
Claude Debussy Suite bergamasque Menuet, no. 2
Claude Debussy Suite bergamasque Clair de lune, no. 3
Claude Debussy Suite bergamasque Passepied, no. 4
R. Nathaniel Dett Magnolia Suite Magnolias, no. 1
R. Nathaniel Dett Magnolia Suite The Place Where the Rainbow Ends, no. 5
Manuel de Falla El sombrero de tres picos Danza del molinero / Dance of the Miller
Manuel de Falla El amor brujo Danza ritual del fuego / Ritual Fire Dance
Gabriel Fauré Barcarolle No. 1 in A Minor, op. 26 Complete
Gabriel Fauré Barcarolle No. 4 in A flat Major, op. 44 Complete
Gabriel Fauré Préludes, op. 103 One of nos. 1, 3-5
George Gershwin and Will Donaldson Rialto Ripples With repeats
Charles T. Griffes Roman Sketches, op. 7 Clouds, no. 4
Mary Howe Nocturne Complete
Jacques Ibert Le vent dans les ruines Complete
Leoš Janácek V mlhách / In the Mists Any two movements
John Melnyk Preludes for Piano, op. 3 Prelude No. 1
Selim Palmgren 24 Preludes, op. 17 The Sea, no. 12
Francis Poulenc L'éventail de Jeanne Pastourelle
Francis Poulenc Trois mouvements perpétuels Complete
Francis Poulenc Cinq impromptus Any two
Francis Poulenc Huit Nocturnes Nocturne in C Major / Sans traîner, no. 1
Francis Poulenc Huit Nocturnes Nocturne in E flat Major, no. 7
Francis Poulenc Trois novelettes No. 1 or no. 3
Sergei Rachmaninoff 10 Preludes, op. 23 Prelude in F sharp Minor, no. 1
Sergei Rachmaninoff 10 Preludes, op. 23 Prelude in A flat Major, no. 8
Sergei Rachmaninoff 10 Preludes, op. 23 Prelude in G flat Major, no. 10
Sergei Rachmaninoff 13 Preludes, op. 32 Prelude in F Major, no. 7
Sergei Rachmaninoff 13 Preludes, op. 32 Prelude in A Minor, no. 8
Sergei Rachmaninoff Morceaux de fantaisie, op. 3 Elégie, no. 1
Sergei Rachmaninoff Morceaux de fantaisie, op. 3 Prélude, no. 2
Sergei Rachmaninoff Morceaux de fantaisie, op. 3 Mélodie, no. 3
Sergei Rachmaninoff Morceaux de fantaisie, op. 3 Sérénade, no. 5
Sergei Rachmaninoff Morceaux de salon, op. 10 Humoresque, no. 5
Maurice Ravel Le tombeau de Couperin Prélude
Alexander Scriabin 24 Preludes, op. 11 Prelude No. 2 and Prelude No. 14
Alexander Scriabin 24 Preludes, op. 11 Prelude No. 4 and Prelude No. 6
Alexander Scriabin Deux poèmes, op. 32 Poème in F sharp Major, no. 1
Alexander Scriabin Deux poèmes, op. 32 Poème in D Major, no. 2
Karol Szymanowski Mazurkas, op. 50 Mazurka, no. 1
Karol Szymanowski Mazurkas, op. 50 No. 2 or no. 3
Ernest Toch Burlesken, op. 31 Der Jongleur, no. 3
List E: 20th- and 21st-Century Repertoire
Composer Work Required selection
Eleanor Alberga Fizz Complete
Eleanor Alberga If the Silver Bird Could Speak Complete
Lettie Beckon Alston Four Rhapsodies for Solo Piano Dream Waltz, no. 3
Dace Aperans Dos Suenos Cantiga
Regina Harris Baiocchi Azuretta Complete
Marcos Balter Dreamcatcher Complete
Samuel Barber Souvenirs: Ballet Suite, op. 28 Waltz, no. 1
Samuel Barber Souvenirs: Ballet Suite, op. 28 Pas de deux, no. 3
Béla Bartók 14 Bagatelles, op. 6 Bagatelle No. 12
Béla Bartók 15 Hungarian Peasant Songs Nos. 1-5
Béla Bartók Mikrokosmos, Book 6 / Six Dances in Bulgarian Rhythm Dance No. 2, no. 149, and Dance No. 4, no. 151
Béla Bartók Mikrokosmos, Book 6 Two of nos. 148, 150, 152, 153
Béla Bartók Romanian Folk Dances, Sz 56 Complete
Béla Bartók Three Rondos on Slovak Folk Tunes, op. 84 Rondo No. 1
Jack Behrens Hommage à Chopin Complete
Jack Behrens Léger Complete
Keith Bissell Variations on a Folk Song Complete
William Bolcom The Garden of Eden Old Adam, no. 1
William Bolcom Three Ghost Rags Graceful Ghost Rag
Margaret Bonds Spiritual Suite Troubled Water
Margaret Bonds Two Works for Solo Piano Fugal Dance
Harry T. Burleigh From the Southland A New Hidin' Place, no. 6
Stephen Chatman Preludes for Piano, 4 Nocturne
Stephen Chatman Preludes for Piano, 4 Shimmering Wings
Wallace McClain Cheatham Three Preludes for Piano, op. 3 Didn't It Rain, no. 3
Aaron Copland The Cat and the Mouse / Scherzo humoristique Complete
Aaron Copland Four Piano Blues Any two
David Del Tredici Three Gymnopedies My Goldberg, no. 1
Maurice Dela Hommage Complete
Maurice Dela La vieille capitale Prélude: Veille sous la porte Saint-Jean
Norman Dello Joio Suite for Piano 4th movement
Vladimir Deshavov The Rails, op. 16 Complete
R. Nathaniel Dett In the Bottoms Dance / Juba
James Domine Suite No. 2 for Piano Solo Cassandra's Dream
James Domine Suite No. 2 for Piano Solo Scherzo: The Music Lesson
Christine Donkin Peace Country In Summer
Tan Dun Eight Memories in Watercolor Three of Staccato Beans, Blue Nun, Red Wilderness, Floating Clouds
Martha Hill Duncan The Sunken Garden The River
Martha Hill Duncan The Sunken Garden The Theatre
Henri Dutilleux Au gré des ondes 4th movement: Mouvement perpétuel
Sophie-Carmen Eckhardt-Gramatté From My Childhood, Book 1 V / Valse chromatique
Sophie-Carmen Eckhardt-Gramatté From My Childhood, Book 2 Nocturne
Mary Gardiner Synergy Complete
Alberto Ginastera Malambo, op. 7 Complete
Alberto Ginastera Rondo sobre temas infantiles argentinos, op. 19 Complete
Alberto Ginastera Danzas argentinas, op. 2 Danza de la moza donosa, no. 2
Anna Höstman Low Tide Complete
Anna Höstman Nocturne for E.S. Complete
Alan Hovhaness Macedonian Mountain Dance, op. 144, no. 1 Complete
Alexander Johnson Two Jazz Impromptus Jazz Impromptu 2
Arlington J. Jones II Jazz Expressions Falsely Accused
Arlington J. Jones II Jazz Expressions My Garden in the Countryside
Arlington J. Jones II Jazz Expressions Ya' Childhood Days
Scott Joplin Solace Complete
Dmitri Kabalevsky Variations in A Minor, op. 40, no. 2 Complete
Dmitri Kabalevsky 24 Preludes, op. 38 No. 3
Dmitri Kabalevsky 24 Preludes, op. 38 No. 5 and no. 9
Dmitri Kabalevsky 24 Preludes, op. 38 No. 6 and no. 20
Dmitri Kabalevsky Sonatina in C Major, op. 13, no. 1 2nd and 3rd movements
Kenneth Kafui Pentanata No. 1 Complete
Vítězslava Kaprálová April Preludes, op. 13 Prelude No. 1
Vítězslava Kaprálová April Preludes, op. 13 Prelude No. 2
Vítězslava Kaprálová April Preludes, op. 13 Prelude No. 4
Ulysses Kay Two Impromptus Impromptu No. 1
Aram Khachaturian Toccata Complete
Aram Khachaturian Masquerade Suite Waltz, no. 1
Betty Jackson King Spring Intermezzo Complete
L. Viola Kinney Mother's Sacrifice Complete
John La Montaine Toccata, op. 1 Complete
Libby Larsen Ricochet Complete
Robert Lemay Six Ushebtis Nos. 1-4
Tania León Two Preludes Sorpresa / Surprise, no. 1
Tania León Two Preludes Pecera / Aquarium, no. 2
Lowell Liebermann Nocturne No. 2, op. 31 Complete
Afarin Mansouri Abstracts Impressions, no. 2
David L. McIntyre En forme Complete
David L. McIntyre Pickled Pink Complete
David L. McIntyre Three Preludes Complete
David L. McIntyre Toccata Complete
Olivier Messiaen Huit préludes pour piano La colombe, no. 1, and Plainte calme, no. 7
Darius Milhaud Three Rag Caprices, op. 78 Rag-Caprice, no. 1
Federico Mompou Cancións y danzas Canción y danza VI
Federico Mompou Suburbis El carrer, el guitarrista, i el vell cavall, no. 1
François Morel Deux études de sonorité Étude No. 1
Jocelyn Morlock The Jack Pine Complete
Robert Muczynski Six Preludes, op. 6 Prelude No. 1 and Prelude No. 6
Jordan Nobles Zephyrus Complete
Jean Papineau-Couture Idée Complete
Alain Payette Deux petites ballades pour piano Petite ballade No. 1
Barbara Pentland Shadows / Ombres Complete
Clermont Pépin Trois pièces pour la légende dorée Complete
Oscar Peterson Canadiana Suite Hogtown Blues, no. 4
Oscar Peterson Canadiana Suite Land of the Misty Giants, no. 8
Tobias Picker Old and Lost Rivers Complete
Florence B. Price Dances in the Canebrakes Nimble Feet
Sergei Prokofiev March from The Love for Three Oranges, op. 33, no. 1 Complete
Sergei Prokofiev Sonatina, op. 54, no. 2 1st movement
Sergei Prokofiev Sonatina, op. 54, no. 2 3rd movement
Sergei Prokofiev Ten Pieces, op. 12 March, no. 1
Sergei Prokofiev Ten Pieces, op. 12 Prelude in C Major, no. 7
Heather Schmidt Shimmer Complete
Arnold Schoenberg Six Little Piano Pieces, op. 19 Complete
Elie Siegmeister Sonata No. 1 / American 1st movement
Dmitri Shostakovich 24 Preludes, op. 34 Two of nos. 5, 9, 11, 12, 18, 20
Dmitri Shostakovich Three Fantastic Dances, op. 5 Complete
Hale Smith Evocation Complete
Linda Catlin Smith The View from Here Complete
Ann Southam Four Bagatelles No. 2 and no. 4
Ann Southam Rivers, second set One of Rivers I-VIII
Court Stone Mist Complete
Court Stone Old Country Suite Complete
Karen Sunabacka Hiding Complete
Jeno Takács Toccata, op. 54 Complete
Zachary Wadsworth Three Fantasies Intermezzo / Two by Two, no. 2
Judith Lang Zaimont Two Rags for Solo Piano Reflective Rag, no. 1
Level 10 Etudes / 10 级练习曲

RCM Level 10 practical also requires two technically contrasting etudes. These are technical requirements rather than List A-E repertoire, but they matter for program planning.

Composer Etude
Stephen Chatman Spring Celebration
Charles Gounod Periwinkle
Franz Liszt Etude in E flat Major, S 136, no. 7
Edward MacDowell Hungarian, op. 39, no. 12
Maria Szymanowska Prelude No. 18 in E Major
Josef Dichler Toccata-Etude
Vincent Persichetti Toccatina No. 3
John Burge Prelude No. 1 in C Major
Frédéric Chopin Nouvelle étude no. 1
Ernst von Dohnányi Postludium, op. 13, no. 10
Nikolai Medtner Alla reminiscenza, op. 38, no. 8
Moore A Little Whimsy

7. 12-Month Certificate Plan / 12 个月证书路线

This is the recommended comprehensive route if Tony is serious about Level 10.

Month 1: Diagnostic Month

Performance:

  • Record Tony playing Black Keys and Turkish March in one take.
  • Run a mock RCM technical test at the highest comfortable level.
  • Test sight reading with unfamiliar Level 8-10 material.
  • Test ear training: intervals, chord qualities, progressions, playback.
  • Teacher chooses tentative Level 10 program.

Academic:

  • Take a Level 8 Theory diagnostic test.
  • Identify whether he knows intervals, scales, cadences, harmony basics, analysis vocabulary.
  • Decide whether Level 8 Theory can be completed within 8-12 weeks.

Parent output:

  • One-page readiness scorecard.
  • Target exam window.
  • Weekly practice schedule.

Months 2-3: Build the Exam Program

Performance:

  • Finalize five-list repertoire.
  • Begin two etudes and technical requirements.
  • Daily slow practice for the hardest passages.
  • Weekly full run of two pieces without stopping.
  • Start sight reading 10 minutes per day.

Academic:

  • Begin Level 8 Theory course or tutor plan.
  • Schedule first theory exam only when mock scores are consistently 80%+.

Months 4-5: First Mock Exam Phase

Performance:

  • First full mock practical, even if imperfect.
  • Identify weak section by marks: repertoire, technique, ear, sight reading.
  • Record each piece once per week.
  • Begin performance practice for family or small audience.

Academic:

  • Complete Level 8 Theory.
  • Begin Level 9 History or Level 9 Harmony, depending on Tony's strength.

Months 6-7: Polish and Register

Performance:

  • Repertoire should be memorized.
  • Technique should be reliable at exam tempo.
  • Ear tests and sight reading become daily maintenance.
  • Decide complete Level 10 exam vs split Level 10 exam.

Academic:

  • Continue Level 9 History and Level 9 Harmony or Keyboard Harmony.
  • Keep written work on a weekly schedule.

Decision:

Register only if mock exam total is at least 75 and no section is dangerously weak. If ARCT may be a future goal, aim for either overall 75 or at least 70 in every section.

Months 8-9: Exam Execution

Performance:

  • Two full mock exams in exam order.
  • One low-pressure recital run.
  • Finalize tempo choices.
  • Practice recovery from slips.
  • Keep sleep protected the week before the exam.

Academic:

  • Continue co-requisites.
  • Do not overload written exams in the same week as practical.

Months 10-12: Certificate Completion Track

If practical is completed:

  • Download and save RCM results.
  • Use examiner comments to update training.
  • Finish remaining theory/history/harmony co-requisites.
  • Decide whether ARCT is a future goal.

If practical is not ready:

  • Delay registration.
  • Use a recital or festival as performance checkpoint.
  • Strengthen weak sections.

8. Weekly Practice Template / 每周练琴模板

Assumption: Tony has school, chess, and normal family workload. Piano should be serious but not destructive.

Standard week: 6 days, 60-90 minutes per day

Block Time Purpose
Warm-up and technique 10-15 min scales, arpeggios, chords, touch control
Etude work 15-20 min Black Keys or second etude, slow-to-fast practice
Main repertoire 25-35 min one or two pieces, detailed practice
Sight reading 8-10 min daily unfamiliar material
Ear/theory mini block 8-12 min intervals, chords, cadence, written theory

Weekend extended session

  • One longer run-through.
  • Record one piece.
  • Listen back with score.
  • Write three notes: one strength, one fix, one next step.

中文版本：

普通周建议每周 6 天，每天 60-90 分钟。不要每天只练最难、最爽的曲子。每次练习必须包含：

  • 技术。
  • Etude。
  • 正式曲目。
  • 视奏。
  • 听力或理论。

这样 Tony 才是在准备 RCM，而不是单纯准备几首 showcase pieces。

9. Practice Method / 练习方法

For Black Keys / 针对 Black Keys

Focus:

  • Evenness at soft dynamic.
  • Wrist freedom and lateral motion.
  • No forced tempo.
  • Left-hand clarity.
  • Clean endings of phrases.

Practice rules:

  • 60% tempo with perfect lightness.
  • Rhythmic variations in small groups.
  • Hands separate for voicing checks.
  • One-take recording once per week.
  • Stop when tension appears.

Parent note:

If Black Keys sounds fast but heavy, it is not exam-ready. The goal is sparkle, not survival.

For Turkish March / 针对土耳其进行曲

Focus:

  • Classical articulation.
  • Clean repeated notes.
  • Tempo discipline.
  • Avoid percussive overplaying.
  • Character without rushing.

Parent note:

This piece is often used as a crowd-pleaser, but in exam preparation it should be judged by clarity, style, and control.

10. Theory, History, Harmony Plan / 理论、历史、和声计划

Why this matters

Without the co-requisites, Tony may pass a practical exam but not receive the comprehensive Level 10 certificate. We should treat written subjects as part of the main plan, not as an afterthought.

Suggested sequence

Order Exam Why
1 Level 8 Theory Foundation and required co-requisite
2 Level 9 History Reading/memorization heavy, can run beside practical
3 Level 9 Harmony or Keyboard Harmony Builds grammar for Level 10 harmony
4 Level 10 History Advanced context and listening/period knowledge
5 Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint or Keyboard Harmony Hardest academic requirement

Weekly academic schedule

Day Work
Monday 20 min theory workbook
Wednesday 20 min history reading/listening
Friday 20 min harmony exercises
Sunday 30-45 min quiz or written review

This is intentionally modest. Consistency matters more than big bursts.

11. Exam Readiness Checklist / 报名前检查

Tony should not register until most of these are true:

Repertoire

  • All five selections chosen from correct RCM lists.
  • All pieces memorized unless strategically exempt.
  • Each piece can be performed in one take.
  • One full program run can be completed without collapse.
  • Teacher agrees style is exam-appropriate.

Technique

  • Scales, chords, and arpeggios are accurate at required tempo.
  • Etudes are stable, not only flashy.
  • Tony can recover from a slip.

Musicianship

  • Sight reading is practiced daily.
  • Ear tests are familiar.
  • Tony can identify common intervals, chord qualities, and progressions.

Academic

  • Level 8 Theory plan is active or completed.
  • Level 9/10 History and Harmony timeline exists.
  • Family understands the five-year co-requisite window.

12. Parent Support Plan / 家长支持计划

Helpful support:

  • Help schedule practice blocks.
  • Keep recordings organized.
  • Protect sleep before lessons, mock exams, and performances.
  • Ask the teacher for specific RCM gaps, not general impressions.
  • Keep the emotional tone calm.

Avoid:

  • Comparing piano progress with chess progress.
  • Treating every mistake as lack of effort.
  • Letting a difficult piece dominate all practice.
  • Registering too early for motivational pressure.
  • Ignoring written requirements until after the practical exam.

中文总结：

家长最重要的作用不是催练，而是帮 Tony 建立一个稳定系统：

  • 每周固定练习节奏。
  • 每月录音检查。
  • 老师给出明确 gap list。
  • practical 和 theory 两条线并行。
  • 把 RCM 当成长项目，而不是一次性冲刺。

13. Monthly Milestones / 每月里程碑

Month Performance Milestone Academic Milestone Parent Check
1 Diagnostic recordings and mock skills Level 8 Theory diagnostic Decide target level
2 Finalize tentative program Start Level 8 Theory Confirm teacher plan
3 Two pieces near performance level Theory mock 1 Check practice consistency
4 First full mock practical Complete or schedule Level 8 Theory Identify weakest exam section
5 Technique and etudes stable Start Level 9 History/Harmony Decide if Level 10 is realistic this cycle
6 Repertoire mostly memorized Continue academic track Choose complete vs split exam
7 Mock score target 75+ Co-requisite timeline confirmed Register only if ready
8 Full run-throughs Academic maintenance Protect sleep and confidence
9 Practical exam window Continue written subjects Save examiner comments
10-12 Post-exam improvement Finish remaining co-requisites Decide next credential step

14. Risk Management / 风险管理

Risk 1: Technical showpiece bias

Tony may prefer impressive pieces. That can create a program that is exciting but unbalanced.

Countermeasure: require one Bach, one classical, one lyrical Romantic or color piece, and one modern/post-romantic contrast in weekly rotation.

Risk 2: Theory delay

The certificate can stall even after practical success.

Countermeasure: begin Level 8 Theory immediately, even if practical is the more exciting part.

Risk 3: Overload with chess and school

Tony already has serious chess goals and strong academics.

Countermeasure: use sustainable practice blocks. Piano should not damage sleep.

Risk 4: Registering too early

Advanced pieces can create false confidence.

Countermeasure: only register after mock exam evidence.

15. Suggested First 30 Days / 前 30 天行动清单

Week 1:

  • Ask teacher: "Is Tony realistically Level 10 practical-ready within 6-9 months?"
  • Record Black Keys and Turkish March in one take.
  • Buy or access current RCM Piano Syllabus and Level 10 books/materials.
  • Start Level 8 Theory diagnostic.

Week 2:

  • Teacher proposes five-list repertoire candidates.
  • Start daily 10-minute sight reading.
  • Start daily 10-minute technique block.
  • Parent creates a tracking sheet.

Week 3:

  • Select tentative List A and List B pieces.
  • Run first ear-training diagnostic.
  • Decide Level 8 Theory learning resource.
  • Record one slow practice session, not just performance.

Week 4:

  • First readiness meeting with teacher.
  • Choose target path: direct Level 10, Level 9 checkpoint, or split exam strategy.
  • Set 3-month milestone.
  • Decide whether this project needs its own dashboard module.

16. Dashboard Data To Track / 后续可视化要追踪的数据

When we turn this into HTML/dashboard, track:

  • Repertoire list completion.
  • Memorization status by piece.
  • Mock exam score by section.
  • Technical test accuracy.
  • Sight reading minutes per week.
  • Ear training accuracy.
  • Theory/history/harmony exam progress.
  • Recordings and teacher comments.
  • Upcoming registration deadline.
  • Certificate status.

Suggested data model:

Field Example
piece Chopin Etude op. 10 no. 5
list List E
status polishing
memorized yes
lastRecording 2026-05-18
teacherRisk evenness and tension
mockScore 12/15

17. Constructive Feedback For Tony / 给 Tony 的反馈

English:

Tony, your current playing suggests you have the raw ability to aim high in RCM. The next level is not just harder pieces. It is becoming a complete musician: Bach clarity, classical discipline, romantic tone, modern color, technique, sight reading, ear training, and theory. If you treat this like a serious project, the RCM certificate can become a strong proof of your musicianship, not just a line on a resume.

中文：

Tony，你现在的钢琴能力已经说明你可以冲高级证书。但 RCM 不是只看你能不能弹难曲。真正的目标是成为更完整的 musician：Bach 的清楚声部，古典作品的节奏和风格，浪漫作品的音色和线条，现代作品的节奏与颜色，还有技术、视奏、听力和理论。你如果把它当成一个长期项目，而不是一次考试，RCM certificate 会变成你音乐能力的有力证明。

18. Source Notes / 资料来源

Official RCM sources checked on 2026-05-18:

  • RCM Piano Syllabus 2022 Edition / 2023 Edition PDF: Level 10 requirements, table of marks, repertoire lists, technical/musicianship sections.
  • RCM Recognizing Achievement - US: Level 10 comprehensive certificate co-requisites.
  • RCM Academic Resources and Policies: split Grade 10 piano examination, five-year theory co-requisite window, official marks policy.

URLs:

  • https://rcmusic-kentico-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/rcm/media/main/about%20us/rcm%20publishing/piano-syllabus-2022-edition.pdf
  • https://www.rcmusic.com/learning/examinations/recognizing-achievement/recognizing-achievement-us
  • https://www.rcmusic.com/learning/examinations/academic-resources-and-policies