Development in Music Theory and Musicianship becomes increasingly important in helping students to perform with sensitivity, understanding and confidence.

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ABRSM's Music Theory exams aim to give students a thorough understanding of the building blocks of music, starting with the basics of rhythm and notes, and going on to cover harmony and counterpoint, composition, and a broad knowledge of western music, including composers and their works, structure, style and period.

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Each Music Theory paper is marked out of a total of 100, with 66 marks required for a Pass, 80 for a Merit and 90 for a Distinction.

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ABRSM's Benchmark

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A longstanding ABRSM benchmark is that a pass at Grade 5 or above in Music Theory must be obtained before candidates can enter for Grade 6, 7 or 8 Practical Exams.