<p>Does anyone know how difficult this course actually is? I've taken piano for 7 years (quit 2 years ago) and have done ABRSM Theory/Recital (including scales and all that good stuff) exams for up to grade 4, so I can say that I have a little background in music theory. Would you recommend the course? Thanks.</p>
<p>Well, you learn how to write music within the rules of the Common Practice Tonal Era, and that’s kinda tough. You have to be able to sight sing, but I heard before I took the test that the graders are pretty lenient on your performance.
The hardest part, in my opinion, is the parts which involve dictation and answering multiple-choice questions based on musical excerpts played. This requires a lot of practice; I would suggest listening to and trying to write down melody and harmony lines to songs you already listen to, then work up to songs you don’t really know.
If you have any more questions, you can PM me.</p>
<p>You should be pretty well prepared because you took ABRSM. I took grade 5 ABRSM theory and it looked like it’s the same material and level as the AP. Grade 4 should be sufficient. The only problem that may arise is listening part. Without perfect pitch, it may be a little difficult.</p>