Academy short courses are open to adults and young people. They take place in-person or online and provide opportunities to learn from our experienced tutors and meet other musicians. We look forward to welcoming you.

This online course will help you to improve your knowledge and understanding of music theory in preparation for the ABRSM Grade 5 Music Theory exam. You will learn from a Royal Academy of Music tutor through a combination of group tuition and individual support.

Classes will be limited to a maximum of 15 participants.

This course does not cover entry fees to the Grade 5 music theory exam. You can find out more about ABRSM music theory exams here: About Music Theory exams.

Course Learning Outcomes

  • Knowledge and application of the ABRSM Grade 5 theory syllabus
  • Some wider knowledge of music theory which is adjacent to the course
  • An understanding of musical analysis

Age

11-17

Course Fee

£360

This course does not cover entry fees to the Grade 5 music theory exam. You can find out more about ABRSM music theory exams here: About Music Theory exams.

Entry requirements

This course is for students who wish to improve their understanding of music theory and progress to the higher practical grades in performance. Participants should have a foundation knowledge of music theory up to Grade 3.

Dates

Summer 5-day intensive course

Wednesday 22 July – Sunday 26 July 2026

10am – 1.15pm

Autumn 10-week evening course

Wednesdays, 5-6.30pm

16 September – 25 November 2026

(No class on Wednesday 28 October during half term)

Venue

Online

Booking closes

  • Summer course: Booking closes on Friday 17 July 2026 (or when the course is fully booked)
  • Autumn course: Booking closes on Friday 11 September 2026 (or when the course is fully booked)

Course preparation/what will I need?

About the course tutor

Poppy Beddoe (Musicianship Tutor at the Junior Royal Academy of Music) is an internationally recognised soloist, orchestral and chamber musician who performs widely as a clarinettist across the UK, Europe and North America.

She studied at King’s College London and the Royal Academy of Music. Alongside her performing career, Poppy teaches at the Junior Department of the Royal Academy of Music and works with the Academy’s Widening Participation team, supporting broader access to classical music education.

Further information

Get in touch

For further information about Academy short courses please email shortcourses@ram.ac.uk