This is something that I am considering. Should I proceed to continue to learn the Music Theory after my Mar exams? My piano teacher is not teaching Music Theory from Grade 6 and above. So, I will need to find another teacher to learn from if I wish to continue. And then the question is, I learn until Grade 8 for what?
The higher Music Theory Grades seems to be more on composition for different instruments in an orchestra to create harmony and identifying the composer and the period of a given piece, which seems interesting to me but very intimidating. And is not as if I will be really composing a piece for an orchestra. Would I be even able to hear my composed piece played by an orchestra? Is there a software where I can load the scores and they play it out for me to hear? Haha. It is then will I know if the piece I compose sounds horrible or not. Hahaha.
I went to check out the rates to learn the higher Music Theory. They don't come cheap. I mean, a rough estimation is about $3k+ just to learn from Grade 6 to 8. And that is provided I am "talented". If I stupid stupid, the amount might be more if I insist that I want to pass the Grade 8 exams.
Anyway, a teacher offered to teach me during my lunch time on weekdays, which means I don't need to think of ways to settle my 2 kids while I go for lessons, since they will be in the childcare from 7am to 7pm on weekdays. And she claims that she can cover Grade 6 to 8 syllabus and prepare me for the Grade 8 theory exams in 7 months, which works out to be about $1.2k in total. Should I just give it a try and see how?
Friday, January 13, 2012
Back to Piano at a Relaxed Mode...
Yes, I am returning to continue my piano lessons starting tomorrow. My mother in law was very nice. She offered to come over to my house to help take care of the 2 little ones together with my hubby so that I can go for my piano lessons at peace. And yes, I am continuing to learn on alternate weeks and continue to prepare for my exams in 2012.
My piano teacher had registered me for the Grade 5 Music Theory exams on 17 Mar 2012. And I am nowhere near being prepared for the exams. So, the next 5 lessons, the focus will be on the Grade 5 Music Theory. According to my teacher, she says there is sufficient time, so don't worry.
Also, my piano teacher plans to register me for the Grade 5 Piano Practical exams in July 2012. As of now, I have completed all the scales and arpeggios and have learnt the 3 exam pieces, which are:
A2: Joseph Hector Fiocco (1703-41) Andante: from Pieces de clavecin, Op. 1
B1: Aleksandr Fyodorovich Gedike (1877-1957) Miniature in D minor: No. 2 from Dix Miniatures en forme d'etudes, Op. 8
C3:Ernest Bloch (1880-1959) Joyous March: No. 5 from Enfantines
So moving forward, I just need to practice and try to perfect them to be ready for the exams and focus on learning new pieces to brush up my sight reading skills and aural skills!
So, I will just take it slowly and see what the results will turn out to be. Passing both the Theory and Practical exams are in my 2012 Resolution! But not at the expense of my other priorities =)
My piano teacher had registered me for the Grade 5 Music Theory exams on 17 Mar 2012. And I am nowhere near being prepared for the exams. So, the next 5 lessons, the focus will be on the Grade 5 Music Theory. According to my teacher, she says there is sufficient time, so don't worry.
Also, my piano teacher plans to register me for the Grade 5 Piano Practical exams in July 2012. As of now, I have completed all the scales and arpeggios and have learnt the 3 exam pieces, which are:
A2: Joseph Hector Fiocco (1703-41) Andante: from Pieces de clavecin, Op. 1
B1: Aleksandr Fyodorovich Gedike (1877-1957) Miniature in D minor: No. 2 from Dix Miniatures en forme d'etudes, Op. 8
C3:Ernest Bloch (1880-1959) Joyous March: No. 5 from Enfantines
So moving forward, I just need to practice and try to perfect them to be ready for the exams and focus on learning new pieces to brush up my sight reading skills and aural skills!
So, I will just take it slowly and see what the results will turn out to be. Passing both the Theory and Practical exams are in my 2012 Resolution! But not at the expense of my other priorities =)
Thursday, November 24, 2011
cbox Removed...
I have removed the cbox from my blog as someone is trying to impersonate me by using my username "Pooh Bear" in providing comments that does not originate from me. I don't like people to "put words into my mouth", although I am ok if that someone had just used your own username to provide your own comments.
To that someone:
Be daring to speak up your own views, and don't hide behind another person's identity. If you really think something is better, just share your views and reasons using your own identity.
To NW:
I don't know who that someone is, but please ignore the last message in the cbox. Someone is obviously trying to be funny.
To that someone:
Be daring to speak up your own views, and don't hide behind another person's identity. If you really think something is better, just share your views and reasons using your own identity.
To NW:
I don't know who that someone is, but please ignore the last message in the cbox. Someone is obviously trying to be funny.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
My little boy arrived...
My dear little boy arrived on 20 Oct 11. This is much earlier than what I expected and hence I was caught unprepared. Luckily he is my 2nd one, so I have some prior experience which came in useful.
I will be returning to work on 20 Feb 12. So I have a full 4 months break from work to spend time with my 2 little ones and my hubby and of coz to try to prepare for the Grade 5 exams.
My goals for these 4 months would be:-
1. Re-establish a routine with my hubby which is sustainable when I go back to work.
2. Fully toilet-train my girl.
3. Wean my girl off her pacifier.
4. Settles my girl well and manage sibling rivalry.
5. Train my boy to sleep through the night without any night feeds.
6. Settles my boy well in the infant care before I start work.
7. Breastfeeding my boy for at least 4 months.
With the encouragement and support from my hubby, I will be registering for the 17 Mar 2012 Grade 5 Music Theory exams and the July 2012 Grade 5 practical exams. He thinks since I am already preparing for it, might as well give it a try. If fail, then so be it. Haha, just waste money on the exams fees lor.
I will be returning to work on 20 Feb 12. So I have a full 4 months break from work to spend time with my 2 little ones and my hubby and of coz to try to prepare for the Grade 5 exams.
My goals for these 4 months would be:-
1. Re-establish a routine with my hubby which is sustainable when I go back to work.
2. Fully toilet-train my girl.
3. Wean my girl off her pacifier.
4. Settles my girl well and manage sibling rivalry.
5. Train my boy to sleep through the night without any night feeds.
6. Settles my boy well in the infant care before I start work.
7. Breastfeeding my boy for at least 4 months.
With the encouragement and support from my hubby, I will be registering for the 17 Mar 2012 Grade 5 Music Theory exams and the July 2012 Grade 5 practical exams. He thinks since I am already preparing for it, might as well give it a try. If fail, then so be it. Haha, just waste money on the exams fees lor.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
If I am taking my Grade 5 exams...
If I am still taking the Grade 5 exams, below will be the planned schedule...
Grade 5 Theory exam:
Fees: SGD 130
Exam Date: 17 March 2012 (Saturday)
Registration Dates: 28 Nov to 9 Dec 2011
Grade 5 Practical exam:
Fees: SGD 240
Exam Dates: July to September 2012
Registration Dates: 13 Feb to 2 Mar 2012
Grade 5 Theory exam:
Fees: SGD 130
Exam Date: 17 March 2012 (Saturday)
Registration Dates: 28 Nov to 9 Dec 2011
Grade 5 Practical exam:
Fees: SGD 240
Exam Dates: July to September 2012
Registration Dates: 13 Feb to 2 Mar 2012
Friday, September 9, 2011
Taking another break...a long one this time...
FY2011 had been a very busy year for me so far, where I had to cope with so many things happening at the same time. It wasn't really a smooth year for me with many bad events, but there were good ones too. As much as I want to continue learning my piano, I have decided to take a break indefinitely, so that I can free up more time to welcome another new member into my family soon and spend more time on other aspects of my life. Yes, a little boy will come into my life next month. With that, I have done my "national call" of replacing my hubby and myself, saying goodbye to baby bumps. =)
I will still play the piano when I need it to relax, but I will not be doing any exams or going for lessons until maybe when my 2 little ones are much older. And yes, it is going to be a few years.
I am glad that my girl sticks to me quite a lot and with another one coming along, I do not want her to feel upset when she realises that she needs to share my time with a "competitor". I believe that sibling rivalry can be managed and minimised, but all that will require effort and time. I am grateful to my hubby for trying all efforts to make sure that I get to pursue my hobby, but I also think I need to spend more time with him and my mummy who is growing old faster especially after my dad moved on just a few months ago. And of coz, as I wish to progress in my career, my work also require more time. So until I can say that I have that extra time to spare without affecting my other aspects of life, I will put piano learning on hold.
It is obvious on what are my priorities and though I do feel sad that I have to put piano learning on hold, I think there are a lot of things that are "fighting" for the limited resource (time) which are more important to me. Definitely, I will introduce music to my 2 little ones and hope that they will enjoy it as much as I do. =)
I will still play the piano when I need it to relax, but I will not be doing any exams or going for lessons until maybe when my 2 little ones are much older. And yes, it is going to be a few years.
I am glad that my girl sticks to me quite a lot and with another one coming along, I do not want her to feel upset when she realises that she needs to share my time with a "competitor". I believe that sibling rivalry can be managed and minimised, but all that will require effort and time. I am grateful to my hubby for trying all efforts to make sure that I get to pursue my hobby, but I also think I need to spend more time with him and my mummy who is growing old faster especially after my dad moved on just a few months ago. And of coz, as I wish to progress in my career, my work also require more time. So until I can say that I have that extra time to spare without affecting my other aspects of life, I will put piano learning on hold.
It is obvious on what are my priorities and though I do feel sad that I have to put piano learning on hold, I think there are a lot of things that are "fighting" for the limited resource (time) which are more important to me. Definitely, I will introduce music to my 2 little ones and hope that they will enjoy it as much as I do. =)
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Higher Music Theory Courses
Places where higher music theory courses are offered (for my own reference):-
1) http://www.musicworkshop.com.sg/piano.html
185A Upper Thomson Road, Singapore
Tel: 65 6455 6647
Email: enquiry@musicworkshop.com.sg
Grade 6 - $140, Grade 7 - $150, Grade 8 - $160
Duration (about 21 months) One hour per lesson, with four to six in a group, taught by specialist with a Master degree of Music Education, and author of Theory examination Model Answers.
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,150 (assuming 21 months)
2) http://vervemusic.com.sg/
Blk 713, Ang Mo Kio Ave 6, #01-4040 (2nd Storey), Singapore 560713.
(take the staircase beside Banquet Food Court)
Duration: 12 to 15 months
The course fees for our Music Theory Accelerated Course Grades 6-8 level is $600 per term (approx 3 months) on an individual basis covering 11 lessons of 60 mins each. There is also a one-time registration fee of $20.
Email: enquiry@vervemusic.com.sg
Phone: 6554 4097
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,020 (assuming 15 months)
3) http://www.private-piano-teacher.com/abrsm-music-theory.html
157 Toa Payoh Lor 1, next to MRT
Fees for grade 6 are $120 per month for ten lessons per quarter. This class will start on orchestral scores/instruments and harmony.
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,120 (assuming 24 months)
4) http://www.learnpianolessonsingapore.com/intensive-abrsm-music-theory-class.html
Contact Number : 8388-6876 (Janice)
Email : janice@learnpianolessonsingapore.com
(If you decide to email us, kindly provide your name, age, contact number).
Duration: 1 hr/session (4x per month)
Grade 5 $230 (3 mths)
Grade 6 $260 (3 mths)
Grade 7 $280 (4 mths)
Grade 8 $280 (4 mths)
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,020 (assuming 11 months)
5) Music Theory Lessons taught by highly experienced music graduate teacher
Individual 1 to 1 and group theory.
Grade 5 at $120 for 4 hourly lessons,
Grade 6-8 crash course at flat rate of $130 for 4 hourly lessons.
The fees for 1 to 1 theory is $150 for 4 hourly lessons.
* For students doing crash course, fees is paid the 1st session of every lesson month for the total no of sessions conducted in that particular lesson month. That is if he or she is able to pack 6 lessons, payment therein will be of 6 sessions, if only 4, then will be just 4 sessions.
Email theory.ding@gmail.com for enquiries and lesson structures
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$1,200 (assuming 32 lessons)
6) http://www.jkmusicstudio.com/contact.html
29B Binjai Park, Singapore 589831
Turn in from Dunearn Road, before Caltex petrol station.
5 minutes walk from the main road.
Walk past the antique shops and Ivins restaurant.
Go up by the last stairway to the top floor.
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8):$3,720
1) http://www.musicworkshop.com.sg/piano.html
185A Upper Thomson Road, Singapore
Tel: 65 6455 6647
Email: enquiry@musicworkshop.com.sg
Grade 6 - $140, Grade 7 - $150, Grade 8 - $160
Duration (about 21 months) One hour per lesson, with four to six in a group, taught by specialist with a Master degree of Music Education, and author of Theory examination Model Answers.
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,150 (assuming 21 months)
2) http://vervemusic.com.sg/
Blk 713, Ang Mo Kio Ave 6, #01-4040 (2nd Storey), Singapore 560713.
(take the staircase beside Banquet Food Court)
Duration: 12 to 15 months
The course fees for our Music Theory Accelerated Course Grades 6-8 level is $600 per term (approx 3 months) on an individual basis covering 11 lessons of 60 mins each. There is also a one-time registration fee of $20.
Email: enquiry@vervemusic.com.sg
Phone: 6554 4097
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,020 (assuming 15 months)
3) http://www.private-piano-teacher.com/abrsm-music-theory.html
157 Toa Payoh Lor 1, next to MRT
Fees for grade 6 are $120 per month for ten lessons per quarter. This class will start on orchestral scores/instruments and harmony.
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,120 (assuming 24 months)
4) http://www.learnpianolessonsingapore.com/intensive-abrsm-music-theory-class.html
Contact Number : 8388-6876 (Janice)
Email : janice@learnpianolessonsingapore.com
(If you decide to email us, kindly provide your name, age, contact number).
Duration: 1 hr/session (4x per month)
Grade 5 $230 (3 mths)
Grade 6 $260 (3 mths)
Grade 7 $280 (4 mths)
Grade 8 $280 (4 mths)
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$3,020 (assuming 11 months)
5) Music Theory Lessons taught by highly experienced music graduate teacher
Individual 1 to 1 and group theory.
Grade 5 at $120 for 4 hourly lessons,
Grade 6-8 crash course at flat rate of $130 for 4 hourly lessons.
The fees for 1 to 1 theory is $150 for 4 hourly lessons.
* For students doing crash course, fees is paid the 1st session of every lesson month for the total no of sessions conducted in that particular lesson month. That is if he or she is able to pack 6 lessons, payment therein will be of 6 sessions, if only 4, then will be just 4 sessions.
Email theory.ding@gmail.com for enquiries and lesson structures
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8): S$1,200 (assuming 32 lessons)
6) http://www.jkmusicstudio.com/contact.html
29B Binjai Park, Singapore 589831
Turn in from Dunearn Road, before Caltex petrol station.
5 minutes walk from the main road.
Walk past the antique shops and Ivins restaurant.
Go up by the last stairway to the top floor.
| Theory Classes | ||
| Grade 6 (group) | $145 per month | 1 hour |
| Grade 7 (group) | $155 per month | 1 hour |
| Grade 8 (group) | $165 per month | 1 hour |
| Grade 6-8 (individual) | $360 per month | 1 hour |
| Professional Consultation Lessons | $100 per hour | - |
Estimated Total Damage (Grade 6 to 8):$3,720
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