Frequently Asked Questions: Online Music Theory Classes

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"The study of music theory allows the performance to be more than a series of memorized mechanical actions." -Peter Ware

What should I take Private Online Lessons or a class?
May I take Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory?
What should I know for Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory?
What is expected me in Theory Classes?
What should I take after Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory?
What should I take after Level 9 Harmony?
What is required for Associate (ARCT) theory certificate?
What ARCT class should I take first?

May I take Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory? An exceptional 8-10 year old may be able to handle the comprehensive Level 5-8 with digelent memory and pratice. Children younger than 11 should take Preliminary Rudiments first. Next Class

What should I know for Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory? Students should be able to read notes quickly and fluently in at least in one clef treble, alto or bass . They should understand the basic meter signatures of 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 3/8, and 6/8. They should understand the basic divisions of rhythm (fractions), such as one quarter note equals two eighth notes, which equals four sixteenth notes, etc. Next Class

What is expected of me in Theory Classes? Students must memorize everything as required by the instructor and complete the substantial homework. The class is not for undisciplined, lazy students. Parents may need to help young children memorize essential information. Parents may attend the class if space is available. Parents must sit in the class if space is available when the child has trouble paying attention or has discipline problems. Next Class
(See information about the three rudiment classes.)

What should I take after Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory? Students should proceed immediately to Level 9 Harmony. All of the information learned in Level 5-8 Theory forms the essential foundation upon which harmony rests. If a time gap occurs, students forget essential information and will consequently feel lost in Level 9 Harmony. Level 9 Harmony does not teach these rudimentary concepts. Level 9 Harmony Next Class

What should I take after Level 9 Harmony? Students may progress to Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint or Level 9 History. Level 9 History requires an extended vocabulary, communication skills, memorization and retention of ideas and words. If the student is capable of expressing complex ideas verbally, has strong vocabulary and easily fits into conversation with adults, they may progress according to their own desires. For young students, Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint is a better choice. Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint Next Class

What is required for Associate (ARCT) theory certificate?
ARCT History, ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint, and ARCT Analysis. Next Class

What ARCT class should I take first?
ARCT History may be taken at any time. For the other classes, take them in the following order: ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint, then Analysis. Coming directly from Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint, go to ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint and then to ARCT Analysis. ARCT History could be the first or last course. Next Class

What should I take Private Online Lessons or a class?
Classes offer 30 hours of information presentation, idea expansion and extensive repetition of applications. Private Online Lessons range from $50-$80 per hour. Though Private Online Lessons may address a specific topic, presentation time is abbreviated offering little depth or richness. It is clearly advisable to take the classes and supplement with Private Online Lessons for missed classes, clarification or personal help.

Financial considerations aside, Private Online Lessons do not generally feature much “test time” allocation in which students reconcile with their own actual abilities. In Private Online Lessons, students work with teacher assistance and feel that they “understand it” without validation by testing. In contrast, testing is an integral part and time allocation in the classes. Classes allow students, parents and teachers to evaluate progress and skill level on a weekly basis. Many students respond and rely on “grade motivation”, a healthy stimulator for cultivating a skill.

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Private Online Theory Lessons are offered in Music Theory subjects, call 905-479-0591 to inquire.

Be Smart!

Look Smart

The Look: Students attending theory classes should bring yellow highlighters to set off important charts and keywords for memorization. Also required: 2 dark, sharp pencils or a mechanical with refills B lead, eraser and lined paper for history class.

Act Smart

Action equals Attitude: Students must focus eyes on the white-board and concentrate as teachers introduce concepts and work solutions. They must copy class work and participate, asking relevant questions and raising hands with answers. Teacher/student interaction is fun and lively. Smart students memorize all material as required in a timely weekly fashion.

Distraction equals Inaction: Whether students day dream, play with zippers, text message or doodle, they have disengaged from the teacher, material and class. Poor attitude is the heart of inaction and procrastination. Cell phones must be placed in backpacks/bags.

Be Smart!

Being smart involves the ability to make the right and sensible choices. Young students and teens may not recognize the immense waste of time/energy of a “distracted” state, which involves equal consequences for parents and teachers. Have a discussion before classes begin. If students focus, memorize and complete homework assignments according to lesson plans, they are sure to succeed to their highest potential. Everyone will be happy and proud.

Parents should provide staff with complete contact info including a home, cell and business phone and e-mail. Parents may sit in class or need to assist students if they are unable to meet weekly memorization requirements on their own.

The Tools: Lesson and Homework assignments are organized in the front of theory books. It is essential that students keep up with these. Parents are advised to monitor work. If homework and memorizations are not taken seriously, there is no way for students to pass examinations. An answer book is available for Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory. When too busy, theory students should complete half of each page to ensure they have covered all topics and skill sets. History students must memorize definitions as a minimum survival tactic. Tests occur every week, so please keep an eye on results. Workshops and Private Online Lessons are available for rudiments and harmony.

Positive Attitude
+ Good Study Ethic
Success

- Lynn Ware

Theory Classes

Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory classes are ideally suited to development of self-esteem and confidence. Concepts are introduced in clearly defined topics (key signatures, whole tones/semitones etc.) in a progressive, but interconnected order. Through study and application of procedures, students enjoy a variety of activities with notes.

National Gold Medal in Music Theory Winner

Eric Tan received the highest theory average for theory class exams for ARCT in Canada (excluding rudiments classes). His grade average was 94.6!

Harmony and History classes require sharp, disciplined minds and develop tremendous intellectual capacity. A positive, pro-active attitude is essential for students to absorption theoretical ideas. Positive attitude + Good Study Habits = Success

Theory Guarantee

We wish to make the theory requirements as meaningful and painless as possible. When students do not work hard or create behavioral problems, teachers may choose to forfeit the guarantee. Enroll students when they will have time to study, memorize, and practice. If a student keeps up with weekly tests and homework, but does not pass, they will be eligible to sit in the class again only if and when there are available seats in the class.

Class Hours

Ware Academy offers students 30 hours of preparation, unless compromised with statutory holidays or examination dates.

No Registration Fees

Textbooks

All material is specifically written for music theory examination preparation. Successive classes and books offer a consistent approach and layout creating an easy path through the advanced exams.

Free Workshops

Comprehensive Level 5, 6, 7 & 8 Theory and Harmony students benefit from extra workshop sessions once per week with additional meetings during holidays.

Testing and Mock Examinations

Weekly tests allow students/parents to constantly monitor progress. Mock exams provide realistic expectations.