RCM Exams
Lessons in music theory take your playing to a higher level — and tell you exactly why something works, not just that it does. We prepare students for the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) Intermediate and Advanced Rudiments examinations in Mississauga. New to theory, or need a refresher before an exam? You can start private lessons at any time of year to prepare for the next examination date.
RCM Grade 1 & 2 Rudiments (Theory)
Just as understanding grammar is essential for appreciating literature, a strong grasp of music theory plays a key role in helping students perform with sensitivity and purpose.
Music theory gives students a broad understanding of the building blocks of music. After several years of playing a wide variety of music — the "practical" side — they now need to demonstrate the ability to write out the intervals, triads and scales they've only ever played until now: the "theoretical" side. Students are also tested on transposition, cadences, rhythm, pitch, analysis, and musical terms and signs. Beginning at the Grade 5 Practical level, students must take an RCM theory exam in a formal classroom setting.
| Practical Certificate | Examinations Required |
|---|---|
| Grade 5 Practical | Grade 5 Practical Basic Rudiments |
| Grade 6 Practical | Grade 6 Practical Intermediate Rudiments |
| Grade 7 Practical | Grade 7 Practical Advanced Rudiments |
| Grade 8 Practical | Grade 8 Practical Advanced Rudiments |
| Grade 9 Practical | Grade 9 Practical Advanced Rudiments, Basic Harmony or Basic Keyboard Harmony, History 1: An Overview |
| Grade 10 Practical | Grade 10 Practical Advanced Rudiments, History 1: An Overview, Intermediate Harmony or Intermediate Keyboard Harmony, History 2: Middle Ages to Classical |
RCM Examination Dates
We prepare students for the Intermediate and Advanced Rudiments examinations, using books and materials written specifically for RCM exams. As the exam date nears, students take mock theory exams — this lets the teacher flag any weak areas and review those sections before the real thing.
Private music theory lessons are available in 30 or 45-minute sessions at our music school. It can take several months to cover all the material, so check the RCM website for examination dates and deadlines and plan ahead. RCM theory exams run three times a year — in December, May and August.
Winter Session
Registration Deadline: November
Theory Examinations: December
Spring Session
Registration Deadline: March
Theory Examinations: May
Summer Session
Registration Deadline: June
Theory Examinations: August
Jane D., Age 50 — Piano Exam"Dear Sir [Wilson Man], you were the examiner for my Grade VII exam in piano last January. Forgive my delay in thanking you for your efficiency and encouragement. You made the experience as least stressful as possible. Your comments were part of the momentum which inspires me to move through Grade VIII — at age 50. Thank you again."
RCM Theory Exam FAQ
When do I need to start RCM theory exams?
Starting at the Grade 5 Practical level, RCM requires a theory exam taken in a formal classroom setting, alongside the practical (instrument) exam for that grade.
Which theory exam goes with which practical grade?
Grade 5 Practical needs Basic Rudiments. Grade 6 needs Intermediate Rudiments. Grades 7 and 8 need Advanced Rudiments. Grade 9 needs Advanced Rudiments plus Basic Harmony (or Basic Keyboard Harmony) and History 1. Grade 10 needs Advanced Rudiments, History 1, Intermediate Harmony (or Intermediate Keyboard Harmony), and History 2. See the table above for the full breakdown.
How often are RCM theory exams offered?
Three times a year: a Winter session (register by November, exam in December), a Spring session (register by March, exam in May), and a Summer session (register by June, exam in August).
How long does it take to prepare for a theory exam?
It can take several months to work through all the material, so it's best to check the RCM website for exact dates and deadlines and plan ahead rather than starting close to a deadline.
How are theory lessons taught, and how will I know I'm ready?
Lessons run 30 or 45 minutes using books and materials written specifically for the RCM exams. As the exam date approaches, students take mock theory exams so the teacher can flag any weak areas and review them before the real exam.
Can I start theory lessons at any time of year?
Yes — private theory lessons can start at any time during the year to prepare for the next available RCM examination date.
Ready to get started?