ABRSM Theory Resources for Exam Preparation

The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Music Theory exams can be challenging for students. Whether you're preparing for lower grades or higher grades, these tests can feel daunting if you don't know where to find good resources. 

If you're a parent whose child is taking these exams but you haven't taken one yourself, it can also be difficult to guide them. Check out this week's blog for some of the best ABRSM Music Theory resources to help you prepare and ace your exam!

1. ​Practice Tests from ABRSM

This may seem like an obvious one, but some people aren't aware that most testing sites, including ABRSM, offer practice exams and sample questions for free. The questions come directly from the people who wrote the exam, so they are going to be a valuable resource. However, since there are limited practice tests, it's important to create a good study plan and use them strategically at specific times when you're most ready.

2. ​Piano Star Theory and Violin Star Theory

Piano Star Theory and Violin Star Theory books are also specifically recommended by ABRSM to prepare for music theory exams. Although they are geared more toward beginners and younger grades, they offer valuable lessons and are interactive in creative and engaging ways that make studying more enjoyable.​

3. MyMusicTheory.Com

MyMusicTheory.Com website is not only free but also offers a variety of helpful lessons, practice questions, and practice tests. You can use their website to identify your current level and see where you're struggling, so you can study intentionally in specific areas rather than trying to study everything at once.​

4. ​Teoria

Teoria offers both music theory and ear training exercises, which will be very useful when studying for the exam. They also offer references in all the keys that you can study offline, allowing you to brush up on your practical knowledge of music theory as you study.

5. ​OpusLab

OpusLab is excellent for studying for the ABRSM exam because it includes a huge variety of practice papers and questions made specifically for the exam. The website is designed to give students an advantage in these exams.

6. ​MLLC Free Resources

The MLLC offers free resources based on our curriculum to study for the ABRSM exam. The resources linked are mostly for Grade 1, but we have a curriculum to cover all of the exams. If you're interested in them, please feel free to reach out and explore our classes!​

Conclusion

While studying for these exams may feel stressful, and music theory may even feel pointless to some who are taking it for external reasons, it's important to remember throughout your studies that music theory is not meant to be soulless or to mechanize music.

It's meant to help you understand how music works in order to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of one of the most beautiful and soulful things on Earth.

If you're searching for more guidance and resources while studying for this exam, please feel free to contact us at the Music & Language Learning Center. We would be happy to offer you a free consultation to explore how we can help you!

Kristine Dizon, PhD

Founder and Head Teacher
Music & Language Learning Center