Elevate your musical literacy in these comprehensive year-long courses designed to build a strong theoretical basis for your instrumental studies at the VSO School of Music. Covering two levels of RCM curricula over the course of the school year, these courses prepare students for the official RCM examinations while deepening their understanding of harmonic language, melody writing, and analysis.
Two course formats available:
Online (RCM 5-6 only): Best for you if you…
- Have a high level of tech comfort.
- Have a busy schedule.
- Are planning to take the online theory exam
In-Person (all levels): Best for you if you….
- Experience test anxiety
- Prefer paper-and-pencil theory exams
Faculty Advantage
While digital platforms offer convenience, music theory is a language best learned through dialogue. In this faculty-led course, students move beyond rote memorization. Our expert instructors provide real-time feedback on voice-leading, harmonic analysis, and stylistic nuances that automated systems miss, ensuring students don’t just pass an exam, but truly internalize the mechanics of music. By joining our faculty-led cohort, students benefit from:
Expert Guidance: Real-time feedback from professional faculty members who identify and correct nuances that automated systems miss.
Small-Group Learning: With a limit of 4–6 students, each participant receives personalized attention within a collaborative environment.
Examinations
We take a “student-first” approach to testing. At the conclusion of the course, students may choose to sit for one exam, two exams, or simply complete the course for enrichment.
Course Details
Materials:
- In-Person: Please purchase the RCM physical textbooks for your specific levels prior to the first session.
- Online/Hybrid: Please purchase both the physical textbooks and the RCM digital platform access for your specific course level.
Prerequisites: Completion of the previous RCM level, teacher recommendation, or equivalent. Please consult your instrumental instructor for level placement.
Levels available:
RCM 1–2 (Theory 1)
Age: 6+
Day and Time: Fridays, 4 pm-5 pm, Full year (September 2026 to June 2027)
In this level, students move from basic recognition to active construction. We dive into the mechanics of scales, intervals, and simple time signatures. By the end of the year, students will be able to identify patterns in their repertoire and understand the basic “grammar” of the music they play.
RCM 3–4 (Theory 2)
Ages: 8+
Day and Time: Saturdays, 3:15 pm-4:15 pm, Full year (September 2026 to June 2027)
Building on the foundations of Theory 1, this level introduces more complex musical structures, including minor scales and basic transposition. Students begin to explore melody writing and more advanced rhythmic groupings, helping them tackle more challenging solo pieces with ease.
RCM 5–6 (Theory 3)
Ages: 8+
In-person: Saturdays, 4:15 pm-5:15 pm, Full year (September 2026 to June 2027)
Online: Thursdays, 5:30 pm-6:30 pm, Full year (September 2026 to June 2027)
This course marks the transition into intermediate analysis. Students explore the “why” behind musical movement, focusing on harmonic functions, cadences, and more sophisticated interval work. It is an essential step for students looking to move from simply playing notes to interpreting musical phrases. This level is offered both online and in person.
Important Note: These RCM Theory levels are a mandatory co-requisite for students completing an RCM practical (instrumental) exam. Please consult with your instructor to ensure you are enrolled in the correct level to receive your practical certificate.
RCM 7–8 (Theory 4)
Ages: 8+
Day and Time: Saturdays, 5:15 pm-6:15 pm, Full year (September 2026 to June 2027)
Our most advanced standard level, this course focuses on structural mastery. Students engage in detailed harmonic analysis, melody writing with accompaniment, and a deep dive into musical form. This level provides the comprehensive theoretical background required for RCM Level 8 certification and prepares students for advanced studies. This level is offered both online and in person.
Important Note: These RCM Theory levels are a mandatory co-requisite for students completing an RCM practical (instrumental) exam. Please consult with your instructor to ensure you are enrolled in the correct level to receive your practical certificate.
Interested in a higher-level theory lesson?
Get in touch with us at privatelessons@vsoschoolofmusic.ca to schedule a 1-on-1 theory tutorial with one of our expert instructors .