The Grade 5 Theory Barrier, I'm stuck at Grade 5 Practical- Advice? Options

[thouston]

I'm another adult learner who taught myself theory from scratch as I wanted to do grade 8 singing. I bought the workbooks (grades 1 to 5) and worked through them methodically. I got my singing teacher to check a sample of the exercises to make sure I was on the right track and did some past papers to get used to the style of questions. If you are determined and motivated you shouldn't have any problems - the hardest part for me was actually summoning the energy to pick up the books after a day at work.

Go for it!

[noodle]

Hi Sakura!

You don't have to.  My understanding is that you have to have grade 5 theory OR practical in order to progress to higher level exams.  At least, that's what the AB syllabus seems to say!

Elisabeth :P

I can't find my syllabus at the moment, but it says grade 5 theory or practical musicianship must be passed before you go on to grade 6 practical and above.

[shelton]

Hi Sakura,

If your already having lessons for violin, then can't you ask the odd question about theory? When I took grade 5 theory I got top marks and that was because I used a combination of my own research and also asking my teacher when I got stuck. Most of the work was done on my own though through my own initiative. In fact, I ended up teaching my piano tutor a thing or two! (he thought that the submediant came before the mediant, where in fact it is the other way around).

If you really want to pass grade 5 theory then just go for it. If you find you can't ask your teacher theory questions then just ask people on these forums who will be pleased to help, including me!

Good luck and remember it really isn't that hard.

Shelton :)

[Sakura]

Hi my current teacher isn't the helpful type and my lessons are only half-an hour long! I'm in the market for another teacher in fact!

Hi Sakura,

If your already having lessons for violin, then can't you ask the odd question about theory? Shelton :)

[czaire]

Hi Sakura,

Not all music teachers are helpful.. but it really depends on your luck as well...

Why not start with Grade 1 book by Lina Ng-Music Theory made Easy? This is a step by step & easy to understand & start with...

You can try to self study yourself unless you really can't cope with it by yourself then, perhaps find a theory teacher or unless you have friends studying music, they can also help you. Alternatively, post your questions here. I'm sure everyone here will definately lend you a hand.

Last but not least, try reading some theory handbook-those very basic first.

Czaire
:)