For effective communication in any language, a deep comprehension of that language is essential: how it's constructed, how it's used, its meanings, its context, its intricacies, its subtleties. Music is a language and a form of communication we can use to express thoughts and ideas to the world or, perhaps, interpret the thoughts and ideas of someone else for our own enjoyment or the enjoyment of others.

Studying theory and composition gives students a solid foundation for music comprehension. Rudiments, harmony, history, counterpoint, analysis and composition unlock the mysteries on each page. Let us peer inside the hearts and minds of the composers and give us the keys to effective communication.

Lessons are offered in a group or an individual format, based on interest. Lessons are also available in counterpoint, advanced harmony, analysis and history 3 upon request. Private lessons are available for all grade levels and are recommended for advanced harmony.

Subject Interests

Intermediate Rudiments

• Course materials: Intermediate Rudiments (Sarnecki); Blank Staff Paper
• Date and time: Tuesday, 6:30–8 p.m.
• Cost: $280 per student

Advanced Rudiments

• Course materials: Advanced Rudiments (Sarnecki); Blank Staff Paper
• Date and time: Tuesday, 6:30–8 p.m.

History 1

• Course materials: Explorations 1; Practice Exams (two packets): one flash drive
• Session: 14 weeks, September to December (in preparation for December exam session)
• Date and time: Wednesday, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
• Cost: $440 per student

History 2

• Course materials: Explorations 2; Practice Exams (two packets); one flash drive
• Session: 14 weeks, September to December (in preparation for December exam session)
• Date and time: Tuesday, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
• Cost: $440 per student

Basic Harmony

• Course materials: Basic Harmony (Sarnecki); Practice Exams (two packets)
• Session: 14 weeks, January to May (in preparation for May exam session)
• Date and time: Wednesdays, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
• Cost: $440 per student

Intermediate Harmony

• Course materials: Intermediate Harmony (Sarnecki); Practice Exams (two packets)
• Session: 14 weeks, January to May (in preparation for May exam session)
• Date and time: Tuesday, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
• Cost: $440 per student

Instructors

• Peter Nikiforuk
• Robert Aszmies
• Terry Kroetsch
• Colin Labadie

Recognizing Experience

Students who complete certain practical and theory requirements may be eligible to receive secondary school credit or a Royal Conservatory Certificate.

Secondary School Credit

The value of Royal Conservatory of Music Examinations is recognized by our Ontario Ministry of Education. Students who complete the following practical and theory requirements may receive up to two high school credits:

• Grade 7 Practical + Intermediate (Grade 1) Rudiments = Non-Grade 12 university/college preparation credit.
• Grade 8 Practical + Advanced (Grade 2) Rudiments = Grade 12 university/college preparation credit. 

Royal Conservatory Certificate Requirements

The following requirements will result in the associated certificate:

• Grade 5 Practical and Basic Rudiments = Grade 5 Practical
• Grade 6 Practical and Intermediate Rudiments = Grade 6 Practical
• Grade 7 Practical and Advanced Rudiments = Grade 7 Practical
• Grade 8 Practical and Advanced Rudiments = Grade 8 Practical
• Grade 9 Practical, Advanced Rudiments, Basic Harmony, and History 1: An Overview = Grade 9 Practical
• Grade 10 Practical, Advanced Rudiments, History 1: An Overview, Intermediate Harmony, and History 2: Middle Ages to Classical = Grade 10 Practical
• ARCT Performance, Advanced Rudiments, History 1: An Overview, History 2: Middle Ages to Classical, History 3: 19th Century to Present Intermediate Harmony, Advanced Harmony, Counterpoint and Analysis = ARCT Performance