Online music theory lessons, Grades 1 to 8
One-to-one music theory tuition for any instrument, or none at all, from the very first notation to Grade 8 harmony. Including full preparation for ABRSM Grade 5 Theory, the exam many students need before taking Grade 6 and beyond in practical.
Theory that makes sense of the music
Music theory should never be dry rote learning. I teach it as the logic behind the music you already play and hear, so every concept connects back to real sound. Theory strengthens your playing, and playing brings the theory to life, each one reinforcing the other.
Understand, don't memorise
Why a cadence resolves, why a key has those sharps, why a chord sounds the way it does. Real understanding sticks far better than memorised rules.
Always linked to practice
We connect every concept to repertoire and listening, so theory becomes a tool you actually use, not an abstract exercise.
All materials supplied
You receive every resource you need, both conventional worksheets and interactive tools, shared through your learning portal.
Paced to you
Racing toward a Grade 5 deadline or building understanding steadily, the pace is shaped entirely around your goal.
From first notation to Grade 8 harmony
A clear progression across all eight grades, tailored to where you are now and where you want to be.
Foundations
Reading treble and bass clef, note values and rhythm, time signatures, simple key signatures, tones and semitones, and basic terms.
Building fluency
More keys and scales, intervals, triads, compound time, transposition, ornaments, and a broader vocabulary of musical terms.
Grade 5 Theory
The key milestone: keys up to six sharps and flats, chords and cadences, SATB and instrumental writing, and full exam technique.
Advanced harmony
Four-part harmony, figured bass, chord progressions, composition techniques, score analysis and the harmonic language of real music.
Need Grade 5 Theory before Grade 6?
With ABRSM, you must pass Grade 5 Theory (or Practical Musicianship) before you can take Grade 6, 7 or 8 in your instrument. I prepare students thoroughly for this exam, whatever instrument they play, so it becomes a confident step forward rather than a roadblock.
Read: Do You Need Grade 5 Theory First?You don't need to be a pianist
Music theory is universal. Whether you play strings, woodwind, brass, guitar, voice, drums, or you're a composer, producer or complete beginner, these lessons stand entirely on their own. You do not need to take instrumental lessons with me, and you do not need to play the piano. The theory applies to every instrument and every style of music.
Free interactive theory tools
Practise between lessons with the free, browser-based tools I use with students. No sign-up needed to start.
Music Theory Quiz
Nearly 1,000 questions spanning Grades 1 to 8, with instant feedback.
Open the quizNote Reading Game
Read treble and bass clef at a glance, building fluent recognition.
Play nowCircle of Fifths
An interactive way to master key signatures and their relationships.
ExploreChord Builder
See and hear how chords are constructed, note by note.
Build chordsGrade 5 Theory Cheat Sheet
A free, printable quick-reference of the Grade 5 essentials on one page.
Open the cheat sheetTheory lessons suit…
Christian
MA Music Education (Distinction) from Trinity Laban Conservatoire, and a current PhD researcher in music education and technology. ISM member and enhanced DBS checked, with over 15 years of teaching and a 100% graded exam pass rate.
More about ChristianFrequently asked questions
Ready to make theory click?
Book a free 20-minute consultation. We'll talk through your level, your goals and any exam deadlines, then map out the right path.
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