Online worldwide and in Vancouver
RCM Music Theory and History Lessons
Clear, individual preparation for every RCM theory and history level—from musical foundations through advanced harmony, counterpoint, analysis, and ARCT history.
All RCM levels taught • Higher-level specialization • English and French
Theory that becomes musical understanding
Learn the ideas—not only the answers
Strong theory teaching makes notation, harmony, form, and history easier to hear and use. Lessons connect written work with repertoire, listening, and the keyboard so that students understand why an answer works and can apply the same reasoning independently.
Dr. Jean-Pierre Calitz has taught every RCM theory and history examination, with particular experience at the higher levels. Preparation can support a student’s practical certificate, address a missing corequisite, or stand alone as serious study in harmony, analysis, and music history.
His current Royal Conservatory teacher profile independently lists Piano, Rudiments, Harmony, History, Counterpoint, Analysis, and Piano Pedagogy among his disciplines.
Lessons are one-to-one and can be taken online from anywhere or in person in Vancouver. The pace is planned around the student’s background, target examination, and intended date.
The complete RCM pathway
Theory and history preparation from foundations to ARCT
Preparatory–Level 4
Notation, rhythm, scales, intervals, melody, analysis, and guided listening. The RCM syllabus treats these as essential foundations studied alongside practical work rather than formal theory examinations.
Levels 5–8 Theory
Cumulative intermediate examinations covering notation, analysis, melody and composition, and music history. Each level supports the corresponding comprehensive practical certificate.
Level 9
Level 9 Harmony or Level 9 Keyboard Harmony, together with Level 9 History. Preparation develops harmonic vocabulary, writing, analysis, and historical understanding.
Level 10
Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint or Level 10 Keyboard Harmony, together with Level 10 History. Work becomes more chromatic, contrapuntal, analytical, and stylistically detailed.
ARCT Theory
ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint or ARCT Keyboard Harmony, ARCT Analysis, and ARCT History. These demanding subjects require fluent reasoning, precise written work, and a mature view of musical style and structure.
Corequisites and planning
Students preparing comprehensive practical certificates or diplomas receive a realistic sequence for completing required theory and history work without leaving major prerequisites until the last minute.
A practical preparation process
Build accuracy, speed, and independence
- Identify the starting pointReview prior knowledge, the target syllabus, and any gaps that could slow higher-level work.
- Learn each concept clearlyUse explanation, listening, repertoire, and keyboard examples before relying on memorized procedures.
- Practise examination tasksWork through writing, analysis, terminology, score study, and history questions with direct feedback.
- Prepare under realistic conditionsUse timed work and practice examinations to refine pacing, presentation, and checking habits.
Questions students and parents ask
RCM theory and history lesson FAQs
Do you teach the highest RCM levels?
Yes. Jean-Pierre has taught every RCM theory and history examination, including Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint, advanced Keyboard Harmony, ARCT Analysis, ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint, and ARCT History.
Can theory or history be studied without piano lessons?
Yes. These can be standalone lessons for students who already have a practical teacher, need a specialist for an advanced subject, or are completing a certificate corequisite.
Are online lessons suitable for written subjects?
Yes. Screen sharing, annotated scores, document cameras, shared exercises, and immediate correction work particularly well for theory, analysis, harmony, and history.
Which exam should I take?
The correct sequence depends on your practical level, completed corequisites, and certificate or diploma goal. Bring your RCM record or list of completed exams, and the first lesson can establish a clear plan.
Do you use official RCM materials?
Preparation follows the current RCM syllabus and appropriate published materials. Examination formats, policies, and registration details should always be confirmed directly with The Royal Conservatory of Music.
How long does preparation take?
Timing depends on the level, prior knowledge, weekly study time, and target result. After an initial assessment, you will receive a realistic recommendation rather than a generic timetable.
Plan the next examination
Tell Jean-Pierre which theory or history level you are preparing
Include completed exams, your target level, and your preferred timeline. Current fees and suitable lesson times are shared privately after you enquire.