Music theory: grade 3

About this course

The course develops musical language and notation through the ABRSM Grade 3 syllabus. Topics include compound metres, demisemiquavers, anacrusis, extended ledger-line notation, octave transposition, major and minor keys up to four sharps or flats, melodic phrase structure, and standard musical terms and signs. Teaching combines tutor explanation and demonstration with revision videos or audio, worksheets, group performance activities and individual tasks such as clapping rhythms. Written homework extends the work covered in class, and the course can also serve as preparation for an external ABRSM Grade 3 theory examination.

What you'll learn

• Read, write, hear and clap rhythms in compound metre
• Interpret anacrusis and melodic phrase structure
• Read and write pitches extending beyond two ledger lines
• Transpose music at the octave between treble and bass clefs
• Work with major and minor keys up to four sharps or flats, including key signatures, scales, tonic triads and intervals
• Apply standard musical terms and signs when answering Grade 3 theory questions

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for learners with existing music theory knowledge equivalent to Grade 2. Participants are expected to engage with written and verbal instructions in English, take notes, write staff notation, contribute to discussion and undertake both group and individual practical exercises.

• Previous knowledge of major and minor keys up to three sharps or flats is expected
• Learners should already understand simple rhythm and metre
• Existing knowledge of treble and bass clefs, including ledger lines, is expected
• The course includes class discussion, group performance and individual demonstration tasks

Before you go

• Participants need manuscript paper, a pencil, an eraser, a notebook and a pen.
• Participants must obtain Discovering Music Theory: The ABRSM Grade 3 Workbook.
• ABRSM Guide to Music Theory Part I is required as a reference book for Grades 1 to 5.