RCM Theory

Level 5

Music Theory for Teens & Adults

Understand music more deeply—and become a more confident, independent musician.

RCM Theory Level 5 is a 12-week, instructor-led course for high school students and adults who are ready to move beyond foundational music theory. Taught by Fine Arts Voice piano and theory instructor Max, the course follows the Royal Conservatory of Music Level 5 curriculum while connecting written concepts to the music students sing, play, study, and perform.

Students may enroll as part of their RCM Certificate Program studies, in preparation for the RCM Level 5 Theory examination, or simply to develop stronger skills in music reading, rhythm, harmony, melody writing, and analysis.

Who Is This Class For?

This course is well suited for:

This course is well suited for:

  • High-school students and adults with foundational music-reading and theory knowledge

  • Students who have completed RCM Theory Level 4 or possess comparable experience

  • Students preparing for the RCM Level 5 Theory examination

  • Singers, pianists, and instrumentalists seeking stronger intermediate musicianship

  • Musical-theatre students who want greater confidence reading and understanding scores

  • Students considering college study in music, musical theatre, or performance

  • Adult and teen musicians who may be new to formal theory classes but are not new to basic music reading

  • Students do not need to be preparing for an RCM examination to benefit from the class.

Completion of RCM Level 4 Theory or comparable foundational knowledge is recommended. Students who are uncertain about placement may contact Fine Arts Voice before registering.

A Focused Class for Ages 14+

This is an academically focused, mixed-age course for high school students and adults. Placement, instruction, and pacing are based on musical readiness rather than age.

All students will work from the same structured curriculum and participate in the same guided instruction, written work, discussion, and musical analysis. The format allows mature teens and adult learners to study together in a professional, supportive environment.

What Students Will Learn

RCM Level 5 includes a cumulative review of earlier concepts while introducing major and minor keys with up to four sharps or flats, triad inversions, dominant seventh chords, 6/8 time, expanded melody writing, and analysis through repertoire exploration.

Throughout the course, students will develop greater confidence in:

  • Reading and writing musical notation

  • Recognizing and working with scales, keys, intervals, chords, and rhythmic patterns

  • Understanding triads, inversions, and dominant seventh chords

  • Working in simple and compound meter

  • Writing and completing melodies

  • Analyzing how music is organized

  • Applying theory concepts to vocal, piano, and instrumental repertoire

  • Answering RCM-style theory questions when examination preparation is a goal

Students should expect regular assignments between classes. Consistent completion of the assigned work is important for keeping pace with the course and developing lasting fluency.

Course Format

Each class includes direct instruction, guided examples, written practice, musical analysis, questions, and review. Because this is a small-group course, students receive individual clarification and support while also benefiting from learning alongside other musicians.

Course Details

Age: 14+
Course Length: 12 weeks
Class Length: 90 minutes per week
Instructor: Max, Fine Arts Voice Piano & Theory Instructor
Format: In person at Fine Arts Voice in Northbrook, with hybrid participation as arranged
Tuition: $600 per student

  • (Pay in full or in three monthly installments of $200.)

  • RCM Examination Fee: Not included / exams are only required for those completing the RCM Level 5 certificate program

  • New Fine Arts Voice Students: One-time $35 registration fee

Class Dates: TBD
Day and Time: TBD

Required Course Materials

Students are responsible for purchasing Celebrate Theory 5 separately from the Royal Conservatory of Music bookstore before the first class. The text provides explanations, written exercises, repertoire exploration, creative melody-writing activities, and examination-style practice aligned with Level 5 study.

Additional materials may be recommended for students who plan to take the RCM Level 5 Theory examination.

RCM Examination Preparation

Students who intend to complete the RCM Level 5 Theory examination will receive instruction and practice aligned with the Level 5 curriculum. Examination registration and fees are separate from Fine Arts Voice class tuition.

Taking the examination is not required for students who are enrolling primarily to strengthen their musicianship.

Registration

Enrollment is limited to preserve a focused, small-group learning environment.

Students who are unsure whether Level 5 is the appropriate placement should contact Fine Arts Voice before registering.

Students who are already registered as a FAV student do not need to complete a new registration. Please email sarah@fineartsvoice.com to sign up for class.

Register for RCM theory level 5

Questions or placement inquiries:
sarah@fineartsvoice.com