So here’s my unique story and motivation for wanting to do this: I did not teach myself to read music (actual notes) until age 13 and used to use a number system with different colors for the notes. I have had no formal piano training and just taught myself from the beginning to play by ear. My chorus teacher one day asked me to identify some of the notes and it turns out that I have perfect pitch. She will help me with the sight singing and gave me some helpful textbooks, including Tonal Harmony and Voice Leading.
Before you doubt me, I already bought the Barron’s review book and talked with my guidance counselor. Any opinions, experiences, or suggestions?
I would say that this seems like a really bad idea. I took AP Theory this year as a freshman with 9 years of experience reading and performing music and with an excellent ear. While you may be talented in the aural sphere, it seems like you don’t know any strategies to apply your perfect pitch, etc. In addition, it seems like you aren’t too familiar with music theory basics, given that you only learned to read music at age 13. (Do you read just treble clef or treble and bass? Either way, the AP exam will require you to read treble, bass, and tenor clef.) Finally, the Barron’s review book is, imo, really bad and incredibly confusing. I would strongly suggest that you take the class when you can and not attempt to self-study.
Yeah, I read treble and bass and know all the key signatures and time signatures. I am willing to learn as much as possible. On the tenor clef, the C is on the fourth line, whereas on the alto clef it is on the third line.
I’d agree with gotmar but I don’t think you should be entirely discouraged. I suggest you to try looking at the material this year, taking advantage of summer break, and consider taking it the year after. There is a lot of material to take in so you could probably try learning it over the span of two years. There is a youtube channel called whs music theory that I heard was really helpful. Also, even though the Barron’s book could be confusing, I think it is enough for you to self study it. Since you have good pitch already, I think you should still go for it. Good luck!!