Music theory: grade 5

About this course

The course works through ABRSM Grade 5 topics including irregular rhythms and metre, tenor clef, transposition, keys, extended intervals, melodic ornaments, primary and supertonic triads, and harmonic cadences. It also introduces melody writing, diatonic harmony, and the use of instruments and voices. Teaching combines tutor explanation and demonstration with revision videos or audio, worksheets, group performance, and individual tasks such as clapping rhythms. The course includes practice in reading, writing, hearing and performing musical material, as well as working through Grade 5 theory exam questions.

What you'll learn

• Read, write, hear, clap and perform complex rhythms in different metres
• Read and write in the four main clefs and transcribe music between them
• Transpose music through intervals up to a perfect fifth
• Read, hear and write music in major and minor keys with up to six sharps or flats
• Construct and use primary and supertonic triads in inversions and harmonic cadences
• Identify and explain musical features in vocal or instrumental scores and answer Grade 5 theory exam questions

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners progressing beyond Grade 4 music theory or an equivalent level. It involves written and verbal instruction, class discussion, group performing, individual demonstrations, practical exercises and writing staff notation.

• Previous study equivalent to Music theory: grade 4 is required
• Learners need to follow instruction and take notes in English
• The course can support preparation for an external ABRSM music theory examination

Before you go

• Learners need manuscript paper, a pencil, an eraser, a notebook and a pen.
• Learners must obtain their own copies of ABRSM Guide to Music Theory Part I and Discovering Music Theory: The ABRSM Grade 5 Workbook.
• Revision videos or audio files and worksheets are posted in Google Classroom.