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Basic Rudiments by Mark Sarnecki

Mark Sarnecki’s, “Basic Rudiments” is the study book I preferred to prepare my students for the “Basic Rudiments” RCM Exam. My students always achieved great success on their basic rudiments exam, following and completing the “basic rudiments” book in the Mark a Sarnecki series. I have read the theory syllabus and understand that it is best to follow the “Celebration Series”. I have two students looking to write their Level 5 theory exam this May and I feel it’s unreasonable to have them buy and try to complete 4 separate theory books. After reviewing the theory syllabus, I understand that the Basic Rudiments by Mark Sarnecki should still be ok as a course of study for the level 5 theory, but would like your feedback, as there are no other resourse/study book/s recommendation/s in the syllabus.

Answer

RCM Staff

Monday, June 15, 2020

at 4:49 PM

As you know, the Theory Syllabus, 2016 Edition, outlines all required concepts for Theory examinations. The Celebrate Theory books are the official examination resources, and have been designed to cover all of the required material. RCM Publishing’s Official Examination Paper booklets include the examination papers from the previous academic year, and are also excellent resources for examination preparation.

While it is possible to prepare students for Theory examinations using Mark Sarnecki’s series, the onus will be on the teacher to supplement these books with additional material in order to cover concepts that they do not address, particularly in the areas of Chords & Harmony, Form & Analysis, Melody & Composition, and Music History.

This Theory Syllabus Addendum lists additional sources that teachers and students may wish to consult: https://rcmusic-kentico-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/rcm/media/main/documents/examinations/syllabi/rcm-theory-resources-2017.pdf.

Monday, June 15, 2020

at 4:49 PM