The importance of theory
It is always simpler to study music theory alongside practical lessons, and is a great support to the practical side of playing the piano, at all stages. It covers both the written side of music, and how melody and harmony work together to make the music we all enjoy!
In the early stages of learning, it helps to speed up recognition of notes and note values, time signatures, key signatures and dynamics, making reading and playing much easier, and reducing the stress of learning new pieces.
Grade Five theory is a minimum requirement for those who go on to the higher Grade exams, and helps to provide a broader understanding of how music is structured, the connections between keys and scales and the reasoning behind certain aspects of harmony.
Children should always be encouraged to complete homework, and supported in this important aspect of their learning. I use theory workbooks that are tailored to children, with easily understood text which I cover in the lesson, and then they should fill in the answers at home. I try not to overload pupils with theory, so there's usually only a page per week to cover, sometimes with a new element to learn, or to practice existing ones.
It is always simpler to study music theory alongside practical lessons, and is a great support to the practical side of playing the piano, at all stages. It covers both the written side of music, and how melody and harmony work together to make the music we all enjoy!
In the early stages of learning, it helps to speed up recognition of notes and note values, time signatures, key signatures and dynamics, making reading and playing much easier, and reducing the stress of learning new pieces.
Grade Five theory is a minimum requirement for those who go on to the higher Grade exams, and helps to provide a broader understanding of how music is structured, the connections between keys and scales and the reasoning behind certain aspects of harmony.
Children should always be encouraged to complete homework, and supported in this important aspect of their learning. I use theory workbooks that are tailored to children, with easily understood text which I cover in the lesson, and then they should fill in the answers at home. I try not to overload pupils with theory, so there's usually only a page per week to cover, sometimes with a new element to learn, or to practice existing ones.
