Yamaha Music School

[meli]

Hi, does anyone teach or have taught at Yamaha Music School before? I am interested in applying but I heard that there is a musical exam/audition that must be taken first. Apart from the 2 repertiore pieces, I heard that you will be tested on improvisation, keyboard harmony, sight-singing and scales! Can someone please give me more info on what its really like or how difficult it is? The reason is I am quite hesitant as I am not so good at improvisation &  keyboard harmony   The rest is okay i.e. pieces, scales etc.. Sorry, another question is what are the pros and cons of joining a music school especially for beginner teachers like me? I have been debating this issue for the longest time, and not sure if I should just go for it. Tks!

[nyonyo]

I used to teach at  several Yamaha Music Schools. In the past, you must pass Grade 5 (level 9) exam before you can even be allowed to join the teacher seminar. These days, at least in the US, it is much easier. You just need to get a Yamaha Music School to hire you and then this music school will become your sponsor to send you to the teacher seminar. However, eventually you need to pass the exam. 

I was hired several times to guard the fundamental exam. I noticed many bachelor piano performance did have problem with harmonization. Actually, the harmonization that was tested was very simple. I do not understand why they had problem. Improvisation and singing with accompaniment are the two subjects that people always have problem. Playing piano pieces is not a problem for most people. If you have never been exposed to the Yamaha System, you should take lesson from people who know how to prepare for Yamaha examination, otherwise, the chance to pass the exam is not that high.  You should call Yamaha Foundation in your country, they will be able to guide you on how to prepare for the exam.

Hope this helps.