I am glad that I have taken the initiative to take up music theory classes. My initial plans about three years ago was just to study some music theory so that I could at least understand what are cadences and to understand the concepts of harmony so that I could get by the aural tests during Grade 8 music practical. I didn't even plan to take up Grade 6 music theory exams when I first took up the music theory classes.
With the encouragement of my music theory tutor, I have not only passed Grade 6 music theory with Merit, but I have went on to study music theory at Grade 7 and Grade 8 level. This evening I was discussing with my music theory tutor whether to sit for the Grade 8 music theory exams this November or next year's March. I may be able to secure a pass if I sit by this November but I would not be sure if I would learn my concepts well enough if I were to rush doing all the past year's exam papers. Next year's March seemed a more comfortable option unless I wish to get the Grade 8 Music Theory certificate earlier.
During the discussion with my music theory tutor this evening, it struck me that giving music theory classes for grades higher than Grade 5 appear to be a niche market itself. Strangely, I was told that in Singapore, there are lesser people studying music theory beyond Grade 5 level than the people studying music (practical) beyond Grade 5. Whatever it is, reflecting, I am glad that I had taken the step to study music theory beyond Grade 5.
I am most pleased that learning music theory has helped me better appreciate the music that I am playing and listening to now. Music makes more sense and becomes more interesting to me because I could better see how the various elements such as harmony, melody, dynamics, form etc could affect how a piece of music composition would sound. I also noticed that I have greater confidence to analyse the music that I am playing on my own. I believe to much extent, having a deeper understanding of the music has helped me be a more competent music performer.
While I don't think I would be keen to give music theory classes (at least not at present), but I am glad that I have a professional and competent music theory tutor who have encouraged and guided me to achieve more than what I have imagined I could do. Many thanks to my music theory tutor.
6 comments:
i am happy you've got yourself a dedicated teacher.
yes, not many teachers like to teach grade 5 and above. too tedious is one reason and given the usual way we take our music lessons, there's hardly time to do the theory part well because of the demands of the practical itself.
it is better to go for two separate lessons, ie. theory and practical. but our students will only pay for one. two-in-one i mean. so it's split, and concentration is thus split between the two during an hour's lesson. this explains the state of our theory level here.
Misti: I am going for two separate lesson...it is quite demanding since I have to travel for two separate lessons. Anyway, I am glad that I am enriched as a result of the efforts and the dedication of my music theory tutor.
you are indeed lucky to have a competent tutor for music theory. sadly im really not good at music. how i wish!
It's good to take up music be it theory or practical. Too bad, I only took up guitar course which didn't even earn me a single cert. :(
Glad you can put what you have learnt to good use. I have long given all and everything back to the tutor/music teacher. Sigh!
the dong: I'm thankful for a good tutor. I suppose you have some skills that I would wish to have.
Kok: I don't even know how to play a guitar.
doreen: It's thanks to my tutor. Hopefully I could retain what I have learnt.
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