Why study music theory and history? To understand the value of music theory and history study, compare it to driving a vehicle. To operate a vehicle proficiently, we need to know the parts (steering wheel, gas pedal, brake pedal, etc.) and their functions. In a similar way, basic music theory gives us the language to name musical objects (harmony, cadences, phrases, etc.) and understand their function.  

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Students who study music theory learn and retain music much more quickly and give more expressive performances than students who do not study music theory.

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To use a vehicle appropriately, we need to know what type of vehicle we have (float plane, race car, mountain bike, etc.).

In a similar way, basic music history tells us what types of pieces we have (genres) and what they are intended for.

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Students who study music history understand the intended usage of a piece of music and its historical context and meaning - what "type" of music they have. This knowledge enables appropriate (stylistic) expression: how to "drive" or "operate" the music.

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Without continuous music theory and history study, students do not have the ability to progress to intermediate or advanced levels. 

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What to expect. Exam-track piano students must take theory exams starting in Level 5 and history exams starting in Level 9. Students who choose not take take piano exams still must study music theory and history but are not required to take theory or history exams.

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All students are given weekly written and aural theory homework.

• Beginner assignments should only take a few minutes to complete.

• Intermediate assignments can take up to an hour to complete.

• Advanced assignments (Levels 9 - 10) take more than an hour to complete.

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Most history work is completed during the student's piano lessons. The occasional history homework focuses on listening to recordings. Students writing a history exam (Levels 9 - 10) have weekly homework that will take more than an hour. 

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How much do lessons cost? Basic music theory and history are included in all piano lessons. Students who plan to write a theory exam will register for both a piano lesson and a theory/history lesson (usually scheduled as back-to-back lessons). Theory and history exams happen in May. For this reason there are fewer theory/history lessons than piano lessons. The cost of the exam-track theory/history lessons is found in my Studio Policy.

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Students from other studios can register for private theory and history lessons with me. These lessons run between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours long, depending on exam level, and culminate in a conservatory exam. Lesson fees are found in my current Studio Policy.

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How do I register for lessons? Please                       to set up a phone or in-person interview to discuss lesson scheduling and goals.