A: The OSI Certificate Program is a classical piano performance evaluation system based on the pedagogical philosophy of award-winning pianist and renowned master teacher, Ory Shihor.

The program includes 11 levels of playing, from elementary to young artist/diploma levels.

Students will be graded based on each of the 4 dimensions within the pieces performed. The scores will be supported by detailed written comments.

Designed exclusively for classical piano performance students, the 4D evaluation and grading system provides a detailed, quantifiable and objective portrayal of the students’ ability through scoring and written feedback that is easy to read and comprehend.

TECHNIQUE

The overall physical coordination between the fingers, hand, arm and the mind, guided by the balance between physical relaxation and muscle tension.

RHYTHM

The ‘pulse’ of the music and how it’s organized, emphasized and stressed by the performer.

SOUND

The sound produced by the performer and its appropriateness for the given repertoire and genre.

ARTISTRY

The ‘essence’ of the music and the control of fine details relating to musical nuance.

A: You are required to perform two pieces listed in the OSI curriculum (pieces not included in the curriculum must be pre-approved by OSI).

Starting from Level 4 (Intermediate I), each piece should represent a different genre (baroque, classical, romantic and 20th/21st century).

Single movements are acceptable (such as the 1st movement of a sonata).

Slow movements are excluded.

A: Students in Levels 2 to 9 are required to present three scales, each played in its major, melodic and harmonic minor variant, as well as 3 arpeggios played in both major and minor.

The scales and the arpeggios should be performed at the tempo indicated in the OSI curriculum.

Students will be notified of their specific technique requirements approximately 14 days prior to the video submission period.

A: Students should submit separate videos for each repertoire selection. Technique requirements should be included in a separate video. Each video must include a continuous and unedited performance. Videos must not be filmed more than six months prior to submission.

A: Your teacher will recommend an appropriate level for you. You may also email us at ory@oryshihor.com directly for assistance.

A: Please contact your piano teacher to obtain a copy.

A: You are allowed to submit substitution pieces that are similar in length and difficulty to pieces within their selected OSI exam level.

One work from a higher or lower level is permitted.

If you plan to substitute your exam repertoire, please have your teacher email us at ory@oryshihor.com with your request prior to submitting your exam registration form. Be sure to include a PDF of your substitution piece in the email. We will notify your teacher once it is approved.

A: If you plan to substitute your exam repertoire, please have your teacher email us at ory@oryshihor.com with your request prior to submitting your exam registration form. Be sure to include a PDF of your substitution piece in the email. We will notify your teacher once it is approved.

A: Each level in the curriculum has been thoughtfully curated and includes valuable repertoire selections that are beneficial for the student’s musical development. However, each student's circumstances are unique, and skipping a level might be necessary at times. Please consult with your teacher or email us at ory@oryshihor.com for assistance.

See ‘EXAM SCHEDULE’ (above)

A: You will receive your exam result by email 4 to 6 weeks after your exam video submission. The physical copy of your OSI Piano Certificate of Achievement will be mailed to your teacher.

A: Students with a satisfactory score will receive an OSI Piano Certificate of Achievement in their respective designated level and be eligible to advance to the next level.