Has anyone tried the Popular Music Theory exams from LCM?

If so, how did you find them??

I'm thinking of giving them a try.

Such a thing exists? That's interesting. What kinds of things does the syllabus include that the 'normal' music theory exams don't, out of interest?

Here's the link - popular music theory . I've got the Grade 1 book; just bought it out of curiosity, I haven't put anyone in for it. One thing I do quite like in the Grade 1 book is that it includes a general knowledge section about popular music artists and their music.

Wonder why they call it 'Popular Music Theory. With all those different scales I can see it being UNpopular music theory with my lot!!

I thought I'd have a go at these once I've got G8 AB Theory. I bought all the books - they're very repetative with each grade presenting the same information plus a bit more.

Looks interesting. How much is repeated from what is covered by AB G8?

There's lots of information about chord and scale formation. Good if you're into jazz and improvising.

They definitely look interesting and will be something I look into doing in the future. I have the books just haven't gone through all the stuff yet.

Have taken the plunge and enetered for the Summer session. Starting with grade 3.

How'd it go?

I took the whole set of books on holiday last week and am now thinking of G6 in November (along with G7 Classical Theory). I "just" need to research for the essay question. For the "performer who changed stlye and with reference to developments in their instruments and pre 1950 influences" (not a real quote, just the gist) I'm thinking of Bob Dylan.

Hi Alicia Ocean,


just seen your post and (literally) just got my result back.... a distinction. Very pleased with that. Thinking of having a bash a grade 5 in the autumn session.

Interesting choice. Are you thinking of Dylan going electric? Otherwise, I would be tempted to think of James Brown or Jimi Hendrix or Herbie Hancock ... not a lot of instrumental innovation around at the moment ...

nick

I chose to do an essay about a singer called Barb Jungr for my PGDip (part of the MA) and her covers of Bob Dylan and Presley songs. I recall from my research that Dylan's fans were not at all happy about him going electric. Dylan and early influences on his work are well worthy of further study.

Another possibility would be Miles Davis, I suppose, though you'd have to argue that the addition of electronic effects to the trumpet was a 'development of the instrument'.

Congratulations! - you're the first person I've "met" with a Pop Theory Grade

I might be too busy in the autumn - spring might be more sensible for me to do G5. (I've got G7 Classical Theory already lined up for this autumn). Bob Dylan for his electro-conversion, yes, and because I live with a fan who can spoon feed me the information.

Thanks.

From what I can gather there is no exam session in the spring period, just summer and autumn. Not sure why. I like to be the 'first'.