Hi, I'm currently studying for grade 8 theory independently, as my lessons focus upon performance (dipABRSM prep) and practical musicianship. I'm fine on the final section, which is analysis of a score (chords, harmonic features, transposing etc), but I am concerned about the counterpoint and the writing for piano section. Could anybody offer me tips on these? I'm just worried that I'm doing something majorly wrong with them as I find the music theory in practise book quite long-winded and unhelpful. Thankyou.

Pianissimo

Hi have you considered getting a book called 'Theory Workbook', Grade 8, published by the Associated Board. This book looks at how to tackle various questions through worked examples. These books are only for the higher grades, i.e. grades 6-8, and I have found that they really summarise the large exercise books quite nicely.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for your help, both of you. It's been really useful. I think I'll buy the theory workbook that you're referring to if it's any less long-winded, though I'm also trying to plough my way through the theory in practise and some past papers!