Helen Wright (Grade 8)

Many congratulations to Helen Wright in achieving The Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music Grade 8 piano exam with merit gaining 121 marks out of 150 under the tutelage of Dr Michael Spacie.

Some of the examiner’s comments included: “….unfolded with clean fingerwork at a flowing speed and an effectively contrasting articulation of the counterpoint….the lightness of the style was captured and there was a very good feeling for the shape of the musical phrases and some very crisp articulation….mood and pacing were very well judged and conveyed….pedalling effective and rubato thoughtful.”

In addition, under Dr Michael Spacie’s guidance, Helen achieved an excellent 26 out of 30 marks for playing a J. S. Bach Prelude and Fugue – the first piece in her Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music Grade 8 piano exam.

The Grade 8 result is very pleasing and forms a solid foundation to proceed to a first level performance diploma for which Helen is now preparing with tutor Dr Michael Spacie.

  • “I started piano lessons with Mike around 18 months prior to me sitting the Grade 8 exam as an adult returning to piano playing (as a youngster I had achieved Grade 5). I have just passed my Grade 8, so I am thrilled with the progress I am making. The fact I have passed the scales and aural elements of the exam are a testament to Mike’s teaching approach. I was nervous returning to piano lessons as my previous experiences had been mixed, and I felt I should have been a lot better than I was! However, I am so pleased I have retaken it up: it has been extremely rewarding. I highly recommend Mike if you are thinking about piano lessons; he is very patient, yet has been able to help me reach a higher playing standard in a short time. Thanks!” Helen Wright