Looking for a theory syllabus that rocks out? Try this on for size.
We have lots of options for learning and getting qualifications in music theory. But the Rockschool Popular Music Theory Syllabus is designed to support budding rock stars and the skills they need for the industry.
What's in the syllabus?
You'll start by covering the basics - how to read music notation and the various scales. Transposition, intervals, chords come next before delving deeper into musical features like tempi, rests, rhythms, chart direction, articulation and dynamics. And then this syllabus gets really interesting: Band knowledge! You'll learn about your fellow bandmembers' instruments and their unique notation, which will set you up to walk into a gig anywhere, look at any chart, and rock out on the spot. From Grade 6 upwards, things get a bit more technical as the foundations are expanded upon with advanced scales, rhythms, modes, and transposition. This gives you the tools for a huge array of genres, while the band knowledge will have you delving into horns and strings, too. If you're heading down the path of song-writing, this will definitely get you set up with not just the skills but the full palette to work with.
What resources are available?
The syllabus itself is free to download and provides all the information you need. To start learning, get hold of the essential guide for either Debut to Grade 5, or Grade 6 to Grade 8. This covers all the material you need to learn and has lots of engaging and fun graphics (see below). To help you achieve your learning goals, you can also get the Workbook for your grade. This is filled with instructional information, examples, and practice exam questions. Head to our AMEB Online Shop to get your resources today.
How is it different to the other AMEB music theory syllabuses?
The content is closest to our brilliant Theory of Music syllabus. However, Rockschool Popular Music Theory is designed with a focus on contemporary music practices, particularly equipping aspiring musos with the knowledge to succeed and thrive in the industry. The content is more aligned to how contemporary musicians learn their instrument, and covers fantastic knowledge about other band instruments to set you up for success in the industry.
Can I get TCE bonus points for a Popular Music Theory exam?
Yes you can! And that goes for any AMEB theory exam from Grade 2 upwards. As it happens, all practical exams are eligible for TCE bonus points from Grade 4 onwards, too.
How does the online exam platform work?
Once you have an exam time teed up, you'll be provided with access instructions. The exam is all online and uses an integrated software called Flat for notation-based questions. We have some great examples, guidance, and demos available for free here.
When can I do a Popular Music Theory exam?
Almost any time! Exams are done online at flexible times but an invigilator needs to be assigned to monitor you remotely while you do the exam. Please plan at least six weeks ahead so you can get the date and time that suits you. But there's still a lot of flexibility - invigilators are available from 9am to late in the evening every week day. Head to SCORE to enrol and one of our friendly team will help you schedule your exam and invigilator.
I have more questions.
That's great! We'd love to help with those. Please feel free to browse the other great sources of information on our website or get in touch to find out more.
