Hi, I wonder if anyone can advise me what kind of theory books or text books would be suitable for a student having passed Grade 5 theory with distinction and moving on to Grade 6 theory. The ABRSM workbook for Grade 6 is a bit advanced for just starting. What is the best way to start. Thanks in advance.

I think that one of the Harmony workbooks might be a good starting point.
Can't remember the titles.

ABC of theory and ABC of harmony - I used both of these and found them helpful. I also found the Josephine Koh books to be helpful. All of these books are graded - one book to a grade. I didn't use Music Theory in Practice at all - took one look and was put off by the way it was laid out. The "Big 6" book was good after I'd worked through the ABC books as it tells you exactly what you will be asked in the exam and ways to go about working the questions.

Is the "Big 6" book a Josephine Koh book or by someone else? I also have a G5 student (passed with a high merit) who needs to get through G6 and on to G8 as a replacement for A level music.

Would appreciate any advice on how to tackle the figured bass etc!

Cheers

Catherine

I think he is referring to the ABRSM Grade 6 Music theory in Practice in that when you work through the other books he mentioned then you're more ready for the Grade 6 ABRSM.

Thanks very much for your reply, its very helpful and will get the books, but as regards the ABC books which one would you suggest for Grade5/6 e.g. A, B or C.

Hi,
"He" is a "she" actually.

The "Big 6" book is officially called Theory Workbook Grade 6. It's published by the Associated Board. It's called "Big 6" because it has a large figure 6 on the cover. It is not the same book as Music Theory in Practice. The ABC of Theory Books are ABC of Theory Grade 6/7/8 - a separate book for each grade. The ABC of Harmony books - I got all three of these but certainly the "A" book will cover most of Grade 6 stuff and it covers figured bass too. The Josephine Koh books are called Practice in Music Theory and will cover all you need to know for each grade - the Grade 6 book deals with figured bass too.

Good luck

Jane

I've been using Harmony in Practise workbooks and they have helped loads! (it's the bright orange one and comes with an answer book too)