AP Music Theory
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What is the AP Music Theory exam format?
The exam format includes 75 multiple-choice questions, 7 written FRQs, and 2 visual-singing free response questions. The exam wight is broken down with the multiple choice section being weighted at 65%, the written FRQ at 45% and the visual-singing FRQs at 10% Students are allotted 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete the multiple-choice section, 1 hour and 10 minutes for the written short answer section, and 10 minutes to compose their responses to the visual-singing free response questions. To make sure you’re prepared enough to finish in time, take a look through our free AP Music Theory study guide that covers the most important material you should know.
How do I study for AP Music Theory?
You’ve likely covered a lot of material during your course this year, but to get a 5 on the AP exam, it’s important you understand how often each topic shows up. This course will facilitate these skills through activities such as attentive listening, reading, expressive writing, and engaging in musical performances across a diverse spectrum of genres and styles. Once you take a look through the breakdown below, make sure to read through the AP Music Theory study guide above with all the key points you should know for each unit.
What units are on AP Music Theory?
- Unit 1: Foundations of Music I: Pitch, Major Scales, Key Signatures, Rhythm, Meter, and Expressive Elements
- During this initial unit, you will delve into the core principles of music, including the interplay between pitch and rhythm, which combine to form melodies and establish meter, thereby serving as the building blocks for the creation of intricate musical compositions.
- Unit 2: Foundations of Music II: Minor Scales, Key Signatures, Melodic Construction, Timbre, and Texture
- Expanding upon the concepts introduced in Unit 1, this unit will further develop your understanding of pitch patterns and relationships by transitioning from major scales to the intricacies of minor scales.
- Unit 3: Foundations of Music III: Triads and Seventh Chords
- Expanding upon your current understanding of pitch relationships, this unit will introduce you to the foundational aspects of harmony, encompassing the study of triads and seventh chords.
- Unit 4: Exploring Harmony and Voice Leading I: Chord Function, Cadence, and Phrase
- Within this unit, your understanding of harmonic components and processes will be further enriched. Additionally, you will delve into the intricacies of 18th-century style voice leading, thereby broadening your expertise in musical composition.
- Unit 5: Exploring Harmony and Voice Leading II: Chord Progressions and Predominant Function
- During this unit, you will delve into the comprehensive study of advanced harmonic progressions, enabling you to describe, analyze, and craft intricate compositions in the form of four-part (SATB: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) voice leading.
- Unit 6: Navigating Harmony and Voice Leading III: Embellishments, Motives, and Melodic Devices
- In this unit, your exploration of harmony and voice leading will be the main point of focus, as you delve further into advanced skills and concepts within these subjects.
- Unit 7: Advancing Harmony and Voice Leading IV: Secondary Function
- Expanding upon your existing knowledge of harmonic relationships and procedures, this unit will delve deeper into the realms of keys, scale degrees, and chords, thereby further enriching your comprehension of these essential musical components.
- Unit 8: Modes and Musical Structure
- During this unit, you will endeavor into an in-depth study of the conventions that shape the character of music, encompassing elements such as modes, relationships between musical phrases, and diverse forms that contribute to the overall structure of compositions.
What are the video resources?
We’ve handpicked some of our favorite youtube channels and videos that align with the key topics and themes covered in our AP Music Theory study guides. These channels can be a great way to get a better understanding of Music Theory and break down the components of what makes music including pitch, rhythm, harmonies, structures, and many more aspects of Music Theory.
Where can I ask AP Music Theory questions?
Connect with like-minded students who are also preparing for the exam and delve into the world of AP Music Theory review together. By joining our Discord community, you can collaborate, exchange questions, discuss AP Music Theory notes, and discuss any tricky problems with fellow AP Music Theory students. Together, you can better understand challenging concepts, share helpful resources, and support each other on your way to getting a 5!
What is AP Music Theory?
AP Music Theory explores the depths of Music Theory to gain a comprehensive understanding of its building blocks. Explore pitch, rhythm, harmonies, structures, and more, unraveling the intricacies that shape music's essence. Through systematic analysis, develop a nuanced perception, enriching your appreciation and interpretation of musical compositions.On this page, you’ll find AP Music Theory resources to help you with your AP Music Theory review.