When you first start to practice a technical exercise, you will be called a Recruit.
Once you have some experience playing it, you will become a Veteran.
When you become excellent at playing it, you will be a Master.
Here's how to become a Master:
Posture & Hand Position
- sit up straight, forearms straight, curved fingers, move fingers up higher on the keys when needed to facilitate natural hand shape; relax hands and forearms, rotate elbow, wrist and hand freely as needed
Notes
- notes are correct
Fingering
- use recommended fingering; execute challenging finger stretches or tucks without hesitating
Tempo
- play minimum tempo (or faster) evenly
Rhythm
- keep rhythm even, with a good musical pulse
Tone
- tone is balanced, clear and even; shape the exercise with a slight crescendo on the way up and diminuendo on the way down
Articulation
- legato or staccato touch is clear, consistent, and effective