Music Theory Exams

[saxy_jag]

Any music teachers out there? I'm a fairly proficient musician but theory is rather rusty, so I'm looking to start work on something like grade 5 and take an exam. I'll be largely self-teaching with some additional support from teachers/colleagues. Is there much difference (if any) between ABRSM and Trinity at the respective grades? I'm taking Trinity grades for practical and unlike AB, there is no requirement for theory at the higher grades. However, I'm happy to work with either syllabus.

Any thoughts?

[ruthandsam]

I don't think that there would be much difference, however, I would take the ABRSM qualification as it is more well known. I remember distinctly years ago when studying for grade 5 piano theory and practical with the London College of Music, there was a general opinion that the ABRSM was a harder qualification, personally I believe snobbery was involved. Maybe an idea, if you can be bothered, to have a look at the history of both.

Hope that helps and all the best with the studying!

[saxy_jag]

I know what you mean on the snobbery thing. I've decided that, since I already have all the books for ABRSM then I'm going to do my learning through those. The content, grade-for-grade, seems about the same. When I'm ready for an exam I'll get a couple of past papers from the respective boards and decide then.

Also, whilst Trinity doesn't stipulate grade 5 theory for the higher practical grades as ABRSM does, it could be useful if I do decide to change to the latter at a later date.

[AlwaysConfused]

What are you aiming for? Personal or career? If you want to teach music, you will need your theory. If one boards standard is recognized as being higher, I'd work towards that. If you've got that far, you deserve to receive the best awards.

I privately taught piano and violin a number of years ago, but their music teachers at school put the pupils through their exams, and I can honestly say I remember nothing about the different boards.

[saxy_jag]

This is just a personal thing to supplement my practical exams, so the exact board doesn't matter too much (excepting what I said above). I certainly have no intention of becoming a teacher again.

[saxy_jag]

Suggest you have a look at the materials for both boards as these will give you an idea of the exact requirements and format of the exams. The workbooks come in at around £5-£6 apiece. I would start your refresher study at a grade or so below what what you estimate you are currently at.

If you want to go on to higher practical grades with ABRSM then Trinity grade 5 is acceptable.