Grade 1

Section 1 - Scales and Keys

Candidates are expected to have a good knowledge of the notes that make up scales - this is essential if the scales learnt in theory are to be used in a practical context.

  • Some answers can be expressed by naming the notes in letter names (e.g. A natural minor = A B C D E F G A), although candidates who are also able to write out scales using notation (in a clef of their choosing) have the possibility of gaining higher marks.
  • Candidates should have an understanding of scale spellings (e.g. pentatonic major scale = 1 2 3 5 6 8).
  • Candidates should be able to identify or write out key signatures.

All scales and key signatures are fully illustrated and explained in the grade handbooks - which also contain sample questions and answers. Find out more

 

Scales for Grade 1 Exam:

As Preliminary Grade plus:

  • C pentatonic major
  • A pentatonic minor
  • G pentatonic major
  • E pentatonic minor

Section 2 - Chords

Candidates are expected to have a good knowledge of chord symbols and the notes that make up chords - this is essential if the chords learnt in theory are to be used in a practical context.

  • Some answers can be expressed by naming the notes in letter names (e.g. A minor = A C E), although candidates who are also able to write out chords using notation (in a clef of their choosing) have the possibility of gaining higher marks.
  • Candidates should have an understanding of chord spellings (e.g. C major = 1 3 5).

All chords are fully illustrated and explained in the grade handbooks - which also contain sample questions and answers. Find out more

 

Chords for Grade 1 Exam:

As Preliminary Grade, plus:

  • Cmaj7, Gmaj7
  • Am7, Em7

Section 3 - Rhythm Notation

Candidates should have a practical understanding of time signatures, as well as note and rest values (including correct grouping).

Illustrations and explanations of all relevant aspects of rhythm notation are shown in the grade handbooks - which also contain sample questions and answers. Find out more

 

Rhythm Notation for Grade 1 Exam:

As for the previous grade plus:

  • Eighth notes (quavers) and rests.

Section 4 - Knowledge of Popular Music

Candidates will be asked questions in the following area:

  • History of Popular Music: influential popular music groups, vocalists and instrumentalists from 1950 to the present day; at higher grades candidates should be aware of the styles, history and development of popular music.

Further information on all aspects of this section of the examination is given in the grade handbooks - which also contain sample questions and answers. Find out more

 

Knowledge of Popular Music for Grade 1 Exam:

  • A basic awareness of influential popular music groups, vocalists and instrumentalists from 1950 onwards (from a pre-set list of four comprising: The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix).

Download Grade 1 Exam Past Papers

Practising with past exam papers can provide ideal preparation for your exam. Past papers also provide you with a clear example of the type and format of questions that may appear in the exam.

Click here to purchase Grade 1 Exam Papers.

Grade 1 Popular Music Theory Handbook

This is the second book in the highly regarded 7 part series of Popular Music Theory handbooks. A perfect beginning in the early stages of popular music theory, this book will help you to improve your musicianship whether or not you intend to take the LCM examination.

All topics are for the exam are covered in a way that is directly applies to the music you play, making music theory both relevant and practical.

You’ll learn about keys, chords, scales, rhythms, harmony and improvisation as well as developing a broad musical knowledge (including instrumentation, musical terms and the history of popular music).

Click here for more information or to purchase these books.

 
 

Website produced and maintained by Take Note Publishing Ltd.