Category

Accomplished

(10-9)

Solid

(8-7)

Developing

(6-5)

Emerging

(4-3)

Beginning

(2-1)

Rhythm and Timing (Accuracy and Stability)

Performs with precise subdivisions; rhythms align consistently with tempo; no noticeable errors or drifts.

Performs with accurate rhythms and stable tempo throughout; rare minor lapses.

Performs with generally steady tempo; occasional rhythmic imprecision or uneven subdivisions.

Performs with inconsistent tempo; frequent hesitations or misplaced rhythms.

Performs with unstable tempo; frequent errors in rhythm and timing; beat not maintained.

Pitch Accuracy (Note Reading, Intonation)

Notes are consistently correct; pitch control is stable across registers; intonation adjustments made accurately in context.

Notes are accurate with consistent pitch control; very few slips or intonation errors.

Most notes are accurate; occasional slips in pitch or intonation.

Several incorrect notes or intonation problems; pitch recognition uncertain in multiple places.

Frequent errors in note reading and intonation; unable to maintain pitch accuracy.

Technique (Hand Position, Dexterity, Control)

Hand position is correct throughout; motion is fluid and controlled; fingers and posture support even tone and speed.

Hand position is correct with minor lapses; technique allows for control and dexterity in most passages.

Technique is functional; some tension or unevenness; control inconsistent at faster tempos.

Hand position is developing but inconsistent; frequent loss of control or uneven sound.

Hand position is incorrect or posture poor; lacks basic control or dexterity.

Musicianship (Dynamics, Phrasing, Expression)

Dynamic contrasts are consistently applied; phrases are shaped with clear starts and finishes; articulation matches style.

Dynamics are controlled in most sections; phrasing is clear; articulation supports musical line.

Some dynamics and phrasing are present; shaping is uneven or inconsistent.

Limited dynamic contrast or phrasing; articulation does not consistently support musical line.

No evident use of dynamics or phrasing; performance remains flat and unshaped.

Sight Reading (Fluency and Musicality)

Performs unfamiliar passage steadily with correct notes, rhythms, and dynamics; maintains flow without stopping.

Performs with steady tempo and mostly accurate notes/rhythms; rare hesitations but flow maintained.

Performs with moderate fluency; several hesitations or errors but piece is recognizable.

Performs with frequent errors, stops, or breakdowns; fluency is often lost.

Attempt is incomplete; rhythm, pitch, or flow break down to the point of unrecognizability.