Frequently Asked Questions: Online Music Theory Classes

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"The study of music theory allows the performance to be more than a series of memorized mechanical actions." -Peter Ware

May I take Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory? An exceptional 8-10 year old may be able to handle the comprehensive Level 5-8 with digelent memory and pratice. Children younger than 11 should take Preliminary Rudiments first. Next Class

What should I know for Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory? Students should be able to read notes quickly and fluently in at least in one clef treble, alto or bass . They should understand the basic meter signatures of 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 3/8, and 6/8. They should understand the basic divisions of rhythm (fractions), such as one quarter note equals two eighth notes, which equals four sixteenth notes, etc. Next Class

What is expected of me in Theory Classes? Students must memorize everything as required by the instructor and complete the substantial homework. The class is not for undisciplined, lazy students. Parents may need to help young children memorize essential information. Parents may attend the class if space is available. Parents must sit in the class if space is available when the child has trouble paying attention or has discipline problems. Next Class
(See information about the three rudiment classes.)

What should I take after Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory? Students should proceed immediately to Level 9 Harmony. All of the information learned in Level 5-8 Theory forms the essential foundation upon which harmony rests. If a time gap occurs, students forget essential information and will consequently feel lost in Level 9 Harmony. Level 9 Harmony does not teach these rudimentary concepts. Level 9 Harmony Next Class

What should I take after Level 9 Harmony? Students may progress to Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint or Level 9 History. Level 9 History requires an extended vocabulary, communication skills, memorization and retention of ideas and words. If the student is capable of expressing complex ideas verbally, has strong vocabulary and easily fits into conversation with adults, they may progress according to their own desires. For young students, Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint is a better choice. Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint Next Class

What is required for Associate (ARCT) theory certificate?
ARCT History, ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint, and ARCT Analysis. Next Class

What ARCT class should I take first?
ARCT History may be taken at any time. For the other classes, take them in the following order: ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint, then Analysis. Coming directly from Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint, go to ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint and then to ARCT Analysis. ARCT History could be the first or last course. Next Class

What should I take Private Online Lessons or a class?
Classes offer 30 hours of information presentation, idea expansion and extensive repetition of applications. Private Online Lessons range from $50-$80 per hour. Though Private Online Lessons may address a specific topic, presentation time is abbreviated offering little depth or richness. It is clearly advisable to take the classes and supplement with Private Online Lessons for missed classes, clarification or personal help.

Financial considerations aside, Private Online Lessons do not generally feature much “test time” allocation in which students reconcile with their own actual abilities. In Private Online Lessons, students work with teacher assistance and feel that they “understand it” without validation by testing. In contrast, testing is an integral part and time allocation in the classes. Classes allow students, parents and teachers to evaluate progress and skill level on a weekly basis. Many students respond and rely on “grade motivation”, a healthy stimulator for cultivating a skill.

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Private Online Theory Lessons are offered in Music Theory subjects, call 905-479-0591 to inquire.