<p>Hi everyone! This is my first post on the forum. I'm currently an 8th grader, and this fall I'll be a freshman in high school. I'm thinking about self-studying AP Music Theory (2014-2015). I know a lot of people say that it's a difficult class, but I was wondering how difficult it would be for someone who has played piano for 10 years with perfect pitch. My piano teacher also gives me music theory workbooks each week to help with my piano playing. Is it possible to get a 4 or 5 on the AP Music Theory test through self-study? If so, which books should I use? Thanks a lot! :D </p>
<p>I took AP Music Theory way back when I was a HS sophomore. My school did not have ANY music theory classes. But a nearby conservatory offers lessons and classes in their preparatory division, so I had my piano lessons and theory classes there. (Actually, I took only 2 years of classes in Theory and 4 years of private lessons in theory, all from my piano teacher.) I also have perfect pitch. I thought AP Music Theory was super easy and I got a 5 without any specific AP prep</p>
<p>You may want to consider asking your piano teacher to give you extra lessons in theory (I had a double lesson a week from my piano teacher - 45 min. in piano, and 45 min. in theory). You will need to learn all the theory up to some four-part harmony (basically, the material in first-year college music theory courses). However, if you intend on majoring in music, don’t bother taking the music theory AP. Unless things have changed, music schools generally do not accept AP music theory credit. They prefer you to take their placement exams instead.</p>
<p>This advice is really helpful… I was wondering about the difficulty and now know what to expect. Thanks so much!</p>