Clarification details
Updated December 2016. This document has been updated, but no new moderation issues have arisen.
The purpose of clarifications
We create clarification documents to help people understand the current requirements of achievement standards. Clarifications do not introduce new criteria, change the intent of the standard, or change what we expect from assessment.
These documents unpack and explain the language and intent of the standard so people interpret and apply the standard consistently. We provide examples or guidance as illustrations only. They are not prescriptions or requirements.
For official requirements, always refer to the current version of the achievement standard as published by NZQA.
Suggested length of performance
A substantial piece of music will be approximately 3-5 minutes long and would need to have some significance and/or complexity in the repertoire for the genre.
What classifies as a ‘second instrument’?
As stated in the standard, the playing techniques on the second instrument must be ‘substantially different’ (Explanatory Note 7) to the first. A discussion should take place in professional forums, e.g. cluster groups, around whether violin/viola, flute/piccolo, or classical guitar/electric guitar use substantially different playing techniques.
A decision on whether the instrument can be considered a 'second' instrument may need to be made on a case-by-case basis, based on the intent of the standard.