Preliminary Grade

Section 1 - Scales and Keys

 Candidates are expected to have a good knowledge of the notes that make up scales - this is essential if the scales learnt in theory are to be used in a practical context.
  • Some answers can be expressed by naming the notes in letter names (e.g. A natural minor = A B C D E F G A), although candidates who are also able to write out scales using notation (in a clef of their choosing) have the possibility of gaining higher marks.
  • Candidates should have an understanding of scale spellings (e.g. pentatonic major scale = 1 2 3 5 6 8).
  • Candidates should be able to identify or write out key signatures.

All scales and key signatures are fully illustrated and explained in the grade handbooks - which also contain sample questions and answers. Find out more

 

Scales for Preliminary Grade Exam:

  • C major
  • A natural minor
  • G major
  • E natural minor

Section 2 - Chords

 Candidates are expected to have a good knowledge of chord symbols and the notes that make up chords - this is essential if the chords learnt in theory are to be used in a practical context.
  • Some answers can be expressed by naming the notes in letter names (e.g. A minor = A C E), although candidates who are also able to write out chords using notation (in a clef of their choosing) have the possibility of gaining higher marks.
  • Candidates should have an understanding of chord spellings (e.g. C major = 1 3 5).

All chords are fully illustrated and explained in the grade handbooks - which also contain sample questions and answers. Find out more

 

Chords for Preliminary Grade Exam:

  • Major triads: C, G
  • Minor triads: Am, Em

Section 3 - Rhythm Notation

 Candidates should have a practical understanding of time signatures, as well as note and rest values (including correct grouping).

Illustrations and explanations of all relevant aspects of rhythm notation are shown in the grade handbooks - which also contain sample questions and answers. Find out more

 

Rhythm Notation for Preliminary Grade Exam:

  • Whole notes (semibreves)
  • Half notes (minims)
  • Quarter notes (crotchets)
  • Equivalent rests
  • 4/4 time signature

Preliminary Grade Popular Music Theory Handbook

This is the first book in the highly regarded 7 part series of Popular Music Theory handbooks. A perfect introduction to popular music theory this book will help you to improve your musicianship whether or not you intend to take the LCM examination.

All topics are for the exam are covered in a way that is directly applies to the music you play, making music theory both relevant and practical.

You’ll learn about keys, chords, scales, rhythms, harmony and improvisation as well as developing a broad musical knowledge (including instrumentation, musical terms and the history of popular music).

Click here for more information or to purchase these books.

 
 

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