On 10th September 2024, our teachers got an exclusive look at the new RSL Classical Music Theory Syllabus, RSL’s latest innovation in the field of Classical Music Education. The session was facilitated by RSL’s Director of Product & Marketing Mr Nathan Theodoulou, who was himself heavily involved in the development and production of RSL’s new syllabuses. 

This new syllabus supports the existing RSL Classical practical syllabus lineup and is aimed at equipping learners with the knowledge they need to get the most out of their learning. As a composer and arranger, and a lover of  many different styles and genres of music, Nathan holds a special place in his heart for classical music too. He also understands the value and importance of understanding the building blocks that make up the foundations of musical understanding. At RSL, they are mainly concerned with molding and nurturing not just instrumental players, but well-rounded and knowledgeable musicians who can easily communicate and work with other musicians, thus deepening their enjoyment and appreciation of the music they play.

 

“At RSL, we make Musicians, not just Certificates.” – Nathan Theodoulou

 

Playing music is one of life’s greatest joys, and understanding how music works can make the experience even more rewarding. The RSL Classical Music Theory books are designed to gradually build your knowledge, helping you grasp the key concepts in a clear and simple way.

The approach to creating these books was done using the CAP approach: C-reativity, A-pplication, and P-racticality. RSL’s Classical Music Theory places an emphasis on practical skills and activities, with simple transposition, melody writing, and other creative tasks introduced from Grade 1, allowing learners to solidify and apply their understanding of the concepts they are learning with an active demonstration of their knowledge. 

What’s in the Books?

The RSL Classical Music Theory books are available for Grades 1 through 5, with one book per grade. Each book serves as both a course book and a workbook, with step-by-step lessons, clear diagrams, engaging activities, and a practice exam paper at the end. Answer keys are available to download from the RSL website.

How to Use the Books? 

Each book supports & scaffolds the corresponding grade of the practical syllabus by building on the knowledge gained from the previous level to bolster foundational knowledge, as well as introduce the concepts and scales needed to grasp the technical understanding for the next practical instrument grade. Nothing comes as a surprise this way, as the concepts a student will need to tackle their next grade are already introduced to them before they need them for playing.

The books feature step by step lessons with clear diagrams and engaging activities & exercises, making them easy to learn and teach with

Preparing for, and taking the RSL Classical Music Theory Exams

Once students are done with the workbook and sample paper, and are feeling good about sitting the exam, they can go ahead and purchase an exam entry on the RSL Awards (UK) website, and gain access to unlimited practice exam questions on the online platform. RSL Classical’s syllabus and online exam system was developed in association with the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) who have a well established and brilliantly intuitive online theory platform that not only allows you to practice using the actual exam interface, but also gives you immediate feedback on your practice answers, whether you got them right, or if you made a mistake, the system highlights your error and offers the correct answer, so even on the practice system, you can continue to learn and revise as you go. You have access to this for about 1 year before you need to take the exam.

When you’ve practiced enough and are ready to sit the exam, simply switch to the Exam Mode on the online system. Simple, practical and innovative in true RSL style.

Conclusion

In today’s fast-changing musical landscape, a solid theoretical foundation is essential. The RSL Classical Music Theory syllabus provides a comprehensive pathway for learners to deepen their understanding of music, enhance their performance, and unlock their creative potential. As educators and students embrace this forward-thinking curriculum, the future of classical music theory education is brighter than ever, ensuring that the timeless art of classical music continues to thrive in modern times.