Music Theory

Learning to play a musical instrument requires a foundation in music theory. Aside from understanding what you play on your instrument, theory will also help you perceive compositional and playing styles from other musicians, including their works. Having a strong theory foundation will enable students to learn music with a broader perspective.

ABRSM Grade 1-5 Theory (4 terms commitment) – This “crash course” is suitable for students who want to undergo the essential first 5 grades of ABRSM music theory in a structured and consistent manner. ABRSM will require a minimum of G5 theory before taking G6 practical. The candidate will not be able to embark on any grades above G6 without G5 theory.

ABRSM Grade 6-8 Theory – This course allows the advanced students who wish to broaden their understanding on music theory across different musical periods.

ANZCA Prelim-Grade 2 Theory – This course is essential for students who are on the ANZCA practical syllabus to reinforce their understanding throughout their course of learning.

ANZCA Grade 3-5 Theory – ANZCA will require G3, G4, and G5 theory certification from their own exam board for G6, G7 and G8 practical exams respectively. Unlike ABRSM, the candidate will still be able to take the practical exams without the theory qualifications; however, the certificate (you will still get the transcript) will be withheld until the required theory exams are completed.

Notes: Music theory for all exam boards require a certain level of maturity when it comes to certain topics, just like how certain topics in mathematics are suited for different levels. Therefore, if your child (usually under 12) is facing challenges, do give them more time before embarking upon an exam.

ANZCA’s G3-G5 theory is considerably harder than other popular exam boards (including ABRSM) of the same level. Hence, it is recommended for students to take ABRSM’s theory exams first, at least till Grade 4, before proceeding to ANZCA G3 theory. This does not mean that the candidate is going backwards. ANZCA’s G3 theory covers topics in ABRSM G5 and G6 (i.e. intervals, 4 part harmony, rhythm & lyrics writing, etc).