Theory@ColeMusiq

A statement of philosophy

In preparing students for the graded theory examinations through the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) or elsewhere, we have approached the task with the following assumptions:
1. That learning by discovery is beneficial for all
2. That learning using workbooks and the companion texts is achievable for most
Note: As of January 2008, we will add 10% to the store price for books and materials purchased at Music Mart to cover the cost of the service to you.
3. That “spoonfeeding” is unhelpful save in the rarest of circumstances
4. That competent coaching can lead to a higher level of achievement
5. That periodic evaluation is a good motivator toward excellence.

Learn about
BUILDING CONFIDENCE


As such, rudimentary theory and global concepts in theory (meaning concepts that apply to every level) will be taught in musicianship classes. This will be supplemented by whatever applied theory the instrument teacher may need to cover for particular pieces. Students will read companion texts and do all assignments in the workbooks on their own and during musicianship classes. Musicianship teacher or assistant will check work in class, correcting workbooks as necessary, and giving pointers. All exercises in each graded workbook are to be completed to qualify for external examination. The highest grade level workbook satisfactorily completed at the time of exam registration will be the grade level that the student is entered for.

Students who qualify for examination will attend the examination classes in the weeks preceding the exams. Over the period of four to six weeks, students will successfully complete a minimum of four past papers for the entered grade. (The ABRSM permits only one grade at a time for theory.) The exam teacher, teaching assistant or more senior student will grade each past paper in front of student pointing out and guiding in the correction of any errors. The teacher will reinforce good by commending the student. Students will be instructed in good examination preparation, practices, and procedures.

We are confident that any student who comes to the examination classes (whether ColeMusiq student or other) with our minimum level of proper preparation, we will coach to gain a merit or distinction in the graded exams. All students sitting theory exams through ColeMusiq will need to be registered with ColeMusiq. Please check with the admin desk for the applicable registration fee.