Grade 5 Theory
Done with a specialist
Online group classes from £25 per session, taught by an internationally recognised, Oxford-educated composer.
Resources included. Free assessment to start.
THE UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTH
Your child's teacher probably isn't a theory specialist
Most piano, violin, and instrumental teachers are excellent at teaching their instrument. But theory is a different discipline entirely. Many learned just enough to pass their own Grade 5 years ago and now teach it as an add-on - charging full lesson rates for a subject they're not fully confident in.
If your child has been "doing theory" for months and still doesn't feel exam-ready, the problem may not be your child. It may be that Grade 5 theory needs a specialist.
I already teach several students who came to me specifically because their instrumental teacher could not teach theory adequately. You'd be surprised how common this is.
Theory is my native language. I'm an Oxford and Royal College of Music graduate composer - I don't teach theory as a sideline. I specialise in it. My students achieve distinction-level results, including pupils as young as ten years old.
THE SOLUTION
A structured course from an internationally recognised composer
Small online groups of 6–8 students, meeting weekly via Zoom over approximately 4–6 months with complete attendance and homework. Every student receives a free theory assessment before starting – so you know exactly where your child stands, which group they belong in, and how long it will realistically take.
Oxford & RCM Educated
Music degree from the University of Oxford. Master's in Composition from the Royal College of Music, with Distinction.
Award-Winning Composer
Winner of the inaugural Oxford–Japan Prize for Composition. RCM Large Ensemble Competition winner. Internationally performed.
Resources Included
Past papers, custom diagrams, model answers, exam technique guides. Your child needs nothing beyond Zoom, textbook and a pencil.
Exam When Ready
ABRSM Grade 5 Theory is taken online, whenever your child is prepared. No fixed exam windows. No waiting around.
WHY GROUP CLASSES?
For theory, groups work better than one-to-one
You might assume individual tuition is always superior. For instrumental performance, that's largely true. But for theory, small group learning has distinct, measurable advantages:
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1
Healthy competitionStudents rise to the level of their peers. When one answers well, the others are motivated to match. This competitive dynamic is especially effective with academically-minded students.
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2
Peer supportTheory can feel isolating in one-to-one lessons. In a group, students see others working through the same challenges. Struggle is normalised. Confidence grows.
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3
Active participationStudents explain their reasoning, discuss answers, and teach each other. This deepens understanding far beyond what passive listening achieves.
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4
AccountabilityStudents don't want to arrive unprepared when their peers have done the work. The social contract of a small group creates natural motivation.
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5
Simulated exam conditionsQuick-fire rounds, timed exercises, and peer-marked quizzes prepare students for the real exam far better than the relaxed pace of a one-to-one lesson.
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Better valueYou nearly half the cost of one-to-one tuition — and get a better-qualified specialist with all resources included.
FREE ASSESSMENT
Find out where your child stands, for free
Every prospective student receives a free theory diagnostic – a short 20 minute conversation to assess their level. No commitment. No pressure. Just an honest answer to the question every parent asks: "How far away is my child from passing?"
PRICING
Half the price, better results
Group classes cost significantly less than one-to-one tuition with your child's instrumental teacher – and are taught by a specialist with resources included.
| Option | Per Session | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Group class (60 min) | £25 | Resources, past papers, exam prep |
| Extended group class (2 hrs) | £50 | Faster progress – cover more ground each week |
| Typical 1-to-1 with instrumental teacher | £45–60/hr | Theory as add-on, resources not always included |
WHAT PARENTS SAY
Results that speak for themselves
"Jacques is an excellent tutor. He has a real talent for explaining things in a clear, structured way and adapts his teaching perfectly to the level and needs of the student. Our son's lessons are both focused and encouraging, which has made a noticeable difference to his confidence and understanding. Very professional, patient, and genuinely supportive. We couldn't be happier!"
— Sarah
"Jacques is an amazing teacher and very knowledgeable about music. My daughter enjoys his music theory lessons and has made great progress since she started taking his lessons."
— Yoko
QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if they want to take ABRSM Grade 6, 7, or 8 on any instrument. Grade 5 theory (or Grade 5 practical musicianship) is a prerequisite. It's also excellent preparation for GCSE and A-Level Music, and looks strong on university applications.
Most instrumental teachers are not theory specialists. They learned enough theory to pass their own exams and now teach it as an add-on. I'm a composer — theory is what I studied at Oxford and the Royal College of Music. I have all the resources, past papers, diagrams, and exam techniques your child needs.
Not at all. Your child continues their instrumental lessons as normal. This is a separate, dedicated theory course. In fact, many instrumental teachers are relieved when a specialist takes over the theory — it frees them to focus entirely on what they do best.
I provide detailed notes and materials for any missed session, and I'm always available for a quick catch-up message. With complete attendance, most students are exam-ready within 4–6 months. Missed sessions may extend this timeline.
Absolutely. I've successfully taught Grade 5 theory to students as young as 10, achieving distinction-level results. The free assessment will help me understand your child's current level and place them in the right group.
ABRSM Grade 5 theory is now an online exam that can be booked whenever your child is ready. There are no fixed exam dates or windows. Once we've covered the syllabus and your child is performing well in mock exams, they can book and sit it immediately.
Just access to the ABRSM Discovering Grade 5 Music Theory Textbook, Zoom and a pencil. All other resources — past papers, worksheets, diagrams, model answers, and exam technique guides — are included in the course fee.
Contact Me
If you'd like to discuss your needs or book an introductory consultation, please get in touch!
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +447804690824
