Music History

When listening to, or learning to play music, we encounter the “What” and the “How” as what are merely notes on a page are transformed into sounds defining one of highest forms of art, and reflecting the history of civilization itself.

However, without knowing the “Why”, listeners and performers can never completely understand what the notes on the page mean, as they are brought to life time and time again.

Not knowing how a piece of music came into being, the story behind it, or the person who wrote it, leaves the student or listener with an unsolved mystery, an incomplete picture, as if one were standing in front of a world famous painting, and seeing only the outline.

Learning about the History of Music unravels these mysteries, and provides the listener or student with what is needed to complete the picture, and make studying and performing music a truly rewarding experience.

Music History classes are suitable for all students, from school age through to adults and seniors, either as a complement to studio instruction, or simply for music appreciation. Courses offered integrate into all of our theory classes up to level 8.

As of level 9, three levels of advanced History classes are offered. All classes align with the RCM’s 2016 theory syllabus and prepare students to write the corresponding History examinations held in May.