The Triquetrae Intermediate Programme
Cultivating Comprehensive Musicianship and Personal Pathways
The Triquetrae Intermediate Programme is designed to build upon the bricks and mortar provided in the Elementary section. Now that the student has a deep comprehension of the ‘why’ behind music, they are empowered to progress further in understanding the methodology behind not only the changes that occurred historically in, what is now referred to as ‘Western Art Music’ but also the role of music in culture and the variance that the world provides through geography, socialisation and chronology. TQ Programme’s Level Five to Level Eight represent a pivotal stage in a student's musical journey, designed to elevate their abilities and comprehension without the traditional graded examination system from Grade Two to Grade Five but to also cultivate independent exploration and personal expression of music. This stage goes beyond rote skill acquisition, fostering the practical application of their in-depth accumulation of core knowledge, an increase in the nuanced understanding of music's historical and sociological contexts, and the refinement of objectively critical presentation, beneficial practice, the use of technology, and the ability to achieve effective and honest reflection skills.
The familiar seven zones evolve to meet these more complex demands, that are still identified as Build, Explore, Achieve, Develop, Grow, Create, and Find, the placing of the zones mirroring the order of flats in the Circle of Fifths. With 'Build' as the primary focus, students are encouraged to consolidate and expand their competencies and skills. While this sequence provides a logical structure, the zones function as interdependent modules, allowing for adaptable teaching and learning and the multiple uses of the same pieces to showcase the different skills achievable in a single piece. The programme is committed to exploring diverse musical foci, concurrently dedicating significant attention to nurturing and refining students' personal musical preferences and individual learning approaches, ensuring a deeply resonant educational experience.
Expanding Horizons
Global Sounds, Ancient Echoes, and Personal Discovery
The Triquetrae Intermediate Programme broadens a student's musical horizons by deliberately integrating a rich tapestry of global sounds and rhythms. Moving beyond traditional Western Orchestral music, the curriculum encourages students to explore and appreciate the diverse musical practices from around the world. This includes engaging with the unique melodic and rhythmic structures found in various cultures, fostering a greater understanding of global and chronological musical traditions.
Furthermore, the programme delves into the fascinating realm of ancient sounds and modes, allowing students to understand the historical evolution of musical systems and to explore and research the aforesaid musical genres and styles in an effort to increase their awareness. This exploration connects directly to the very origins of music, providing a profound context for the development of contemporary practices and enriching their theoretical understanding, perhaps even touching on microtonal concepts as they consider different intonation systems.
A key differentiator of the Intermediate Programme is its emphasis on personal research opportunities. Projects are given in collaboration with students and sponsors to undertake independent inquiries into their own areas of musical interest, whether it is the anthropology of music, specific historical periods, or the intersection of music with other disciplines. This fosters critical thinking and academic rigour, preparing them for higher-level studies and aligning with a musicological approach.
Finally, the programme culminates in the further development of a personal portfolio, serving as a dynamic testament to each student's unique musical journey. This goes beyond a simple collection of pieces; it is a curated compilation that includes not only their developing repertoire but also their personal contributions, such as original compositions, arrangements, research findings, and reflections on their learning and performance experiences. This portfolio becomes a living document of their artistic growth, creativity, and intellectual engagement with music, empowering them to articulate their musical identity and achievements.