In the pursuit of a collegiate music education, one can rely on an unwavering certainty: the Music Theory Entrance Exam. For incoming freshman music majors, this exam holds the power to determine their placement in either college-level Music Theory I or remedial Music Theory. Its significance is evident, as it directly impacts the trajectory of their academic journey and, consequently, their college tuition.

Timing plays a crucial role when it comes to taking the music theory placement exam. Some institutions administer the exam during the audition weekend, providing students with the opportunity to address any placement concerns before accepting an offer. This enables them to proactively tackle any remedial needs, such as enrolling in summer school at a nearby university or even taking Music Theory I on another campus if the credit can be transferred. On the other hand, delaying the exam until the first week of classes leaves little room for course correction, potentially extending the time required to complete the degree.

For those faced with remedial theory placement, there are options to overcome the challenge. Private tutoring, online resources, and YouTube instructors can help students familiarize themselves with the basics of music theory within a 90-day period. With dedication and strategic study, they can retake the exam during the first week of school, aiming to progress beyond the remedial phase and join their classmates in Music Theory I.

However, if the exam is not taken until the start of the freshman year, the consequences are sealed. Failure to pass the exam at this stage consigns students to remedial theory, often resulting in a five-year graduation plan instead of the standard four years. Moreover, most scholarships are awarded for the traditional four-year duration, making this situation particularly challenging. Yet, there are alternative routes to consider, such as paying full tuition out of pocket for the fifth year or enrolling in a summer semester following the freshman year to catch up on Music Theory I and reintegrate into Music Theory II.

The best course of action is to approach the music theory entrance exam with confidence and preparedness. Starting early—perhaps as early as 7th grade—with annual music theory grade level testing can set a strong foundation. Supplementing classroom lessons with online or app-based music theory resources in 8th grade can further enhance understanding. 

In 9th grade, attending a summer music camp or engaging in an enrichment experience that includes music theory can be invaluable. Additionally, dedicating time to a self-paced online basic music theory course can be a productive summer activity during this period.  In addition, pursuing the National Scholastic Musicians Awards (NationalScholasicMusiciansAwards.com) can prove to be beneficial in providing a systematic review of music theory and testing on basic music theory knowledge.

By 10th grade, students should actively seek out and take college-level Music Theory Entrance Exams, identify areas of weakness, and work to strengthen them. Consideration can be given to engaging a music theory coach for personal lessons, either online or in person. In the 11th and 12th grades, students with sufficient flexibility in their schedules should aim to include an elective course in Music Theory or, ideally, enroll in AP Music Theory if available. If their school does not offer these courses, seeking a personal music theory coach, often found among local piano instructors, can prove beneficial.

While music theory is an integral part of the middle and high school ensemble instruction, it often falls short of providing concentrated preparation for freshman-level Music Theory I. It is worth noting that investing a few hundred dollars during middle and high school to bolster music theory knowledge can yield substantial savings in tuition costs down the road. The expense incurred early on may ultimately save students thousands, if not tens of thousands, of dollars in their college years.

Understanding the vital role of music theory and its impact on college tuition allows aspiring music majors to approach the entrance exam with a sense of purpose and determination. By embracing the opportunity to solidify their music theory foundation, students can navigate the complex landscape of college admissions with greater confidence and foresight.

The direct relationship between music theory and college tuition becomes increasingly apparent as students recognize the implications of their exam results. A strong foundation in music theory not only places them in more advanced courses but also streamlines their path to graduation, potentially saving them a year's worth of tuition expenses. The financial impact of such savings cannot be underestimated, as it alleviates the burden of an additional year of tuition fees, room and board, and other associated costs.

Moreover, the benefits of excelling in music theory extend beyond financial considerations. A solid understanding of the subject enhances students' overall musicianship, enabling them to approach their chosen instrument with a more nuanced perspective. It equips them with the analytical tools necessary to interpret complex compositions, identify patterns and structures, and engage more deeply with the music they perform.

Additionally, mastery of music theory enhances students' collaborative abilities. It facilitates effective communication with fellow musicians, as they can more readily discuss musical concepts, interpretive choices, and ensemble dynamics. A shared language of music theory creates a cohesive musical community, enabling students to engage in meaningful musical dialogues and develop a deeper appreciation for the art form.

Furthermore, a strong foundation in music theory provides a competitive edge in the highly competitive world of music education. It demonstrates to college admissions committees and scholarship panels a student's dedication, discipline, and commitment to their craft. It showcases their intellectual curiosity and their willingness to go beyond the confines of performance, delving into the theoretical underpinnings of music.

To ensure success in the music theory entrance exam, students must adopt a proactive and strategic approach to their musical education. Starting early and gradually building a strong music theory foundation allows them to refine their skills and address any gaps in knowledge before the crucial exam. Seeking additional resources, such as online courses, private tutoring, or mentorship from experienced music theory instructors, can provide valuable guidance and support.

While the journey towards mastering music theory may require dedication, time, and financial investment, the rewards are substantial. By investing in their music theory education during middle and high school, students set themselves up for success in college and beyond. They position themselves as well-rounded musicians who not only possess technical prowess but also possess the theoretical understanding and analytical skills necessary for a thriving career in music.

In conclusion, the significance of the music theory entrance exam in shaping a student's collegiate experience and tuition expenses cannot be overstated. It serves as a pivotal moment, determining the trajectory of their academic journey and potential financial burdens. Recognizing the importance of music theory early on, students can proactively prepare themselves, seeking out resources, guidance, and opportunities to solidify their understanding of this essential discipline. Through dedication, perseverance, and a comprehensive grasp of music theory, aspiring musicians can harmonize their dreams of a successful college experience while harmonizing the melodies that will resonate throughout their musical careers.

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Objective: To showcase fundamental understanding of music theory through self-assessment of a selected portion from a genuine music theory entrance exam.

Assignment: Take the following music theory entrance exam self-timed for five-minutes:

1.   Identify the note name for each clef and identify the correct answer. 

               A. Treble Clef - F, A, B, F, C, G, E, E, D, C, F, G, F, E, C, A   

                 Bass Clef  - B, C, G, E, F, C, D, B, B, A,C, F, E, C D, G

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               B. Treble Clef - F, A, B, F, C, G, D, E, D, C, F, G, F, E, C, G   

                 Bass Clef  - D, C, G, E, A, E, F, D, B, A,C, F, E, C D, G

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              C. Treble Clef - F, A, D, F, C, G, F, E, D, C, F, G, F, E, C, G   

               Bass Clef  - B, C, E, C, A, E, F, D, B, A,C, F, E, C D, G

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2.  Match the definition with correct musical terms:

                   Dynamics ___          A. The highness or lowness of the sound

                   Beat ___                     B. A series of pitches that conveys a musical idea

                   Pitch ___                   C. Sound organized in time

                   Harmony ___           D. Speed of music

                   Rhythm___                E. The distance between two pitches

                  Tempo ___                 F. Basic unit of time; the pulse

                  Melody ___                 G. Name for the various levels of loudness and softness in music

                  Interval ___                 H. Two or more pitches sounded at the same time to create a purposefully pleasant or unpleasant sound

                  Music___                    I. Systematic arrangement of musical sounds according to duration

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3. Name the flats in order:

                 A. Answer -  G, B, D, F, A, E, C

                 B. Answer –  F, B, E, A, D, C, G

                 C. Answer -  B, E, A, D, G, C, F

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4. Construct the following chords (using accidental where appropriate)

• G Major:     Root _____     Third_____     Fifth _____
• D minor:     Root _____     Third_____     Fifth _____
• D Major :     Root _____     Third_____     Fifth _____

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        A. Answer

            G Major:     Root - G   Third -B    Fifth- D

            D minor:     Root  - D   Third - F   Fifth - A

            D Major :     Root - D   Third – F# Fifth - A

        B. Answer

           G Major:     Root - G         Third -Bb        Fifth- D

           D minor:     Root  - D        Third - F          Fifth - A

           D Major :    Root - D          Third – F#      Fifth - A

       C. Answer

           G Major:     Root - G     Third -B           Fifth- D

           D minor:     Root  - D     Third - E         Fifth – F#

           D Major :    Root - D       Third – F#      Fifth - A

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5. Denote the instruments that are transposing instruments

• Bb Trumpet
• Flute
• Bb Clarinet
• Cello
• Eb Clarinet
• Tuba
• Piano

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              A.  Piano, Eb Clarinet, Bb Trumpet 

              B.  Bb Clarinet, Bb Trumpet, Eb Clarinet

              C.  Tuba, Flute, Piano

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Answers

Question 1. – Answer B

Question 2. – G, F, A, H, I, D, B, E, C

Question 3. – Answer C

Question 4. – Answer A

Question 5. – Answer B

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