Musicianship &
Music Theory
at LPSM
At LPSM, Musicianship and Music Theory are taught in a practical, hands-on and engaging way that aims to enhance every student’s instrumental learning and understanding from the earliest stages to advanced levels.
Musicianship Programme
Musicianship Years 1–5
All of our young students who are under 11 when beginning their musical journey with us join our compulsory Musicianship Programme alongside their instrumental lessons. These classes are included in your Junior LPSM Instrumental Programme fee.
These weekly 30-minute group sessions, based on Kodaly principles, are specially designed by the LPSM team to build strong musical foundations through rhythm work, listening, singing, creativity, and music theory games.
The programme helps students:
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Develop confidence and musical understanding
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Progress faster on their instrument
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Build strong aural and music reading skills
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Enjoy a more rewarding learning experience
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Develop social and musical skills through working in a group.
Our Musicianship Programme runs across 5 progressive years (Years 1–5), giving students the fundamental skills they need to thrive in their instrumental studies.
Music Theory Programme
Students at this point are introduced to the more formal aspects and language of music theory in an enjoyable and engaging way
Music Theory Grades 3 – 4 (Bridging years)
After completing LPSM Musicianship Years 1–5 (or the equivalent of Grade 2 Theory elsewhere), students can move onto our bridging years. These classes are a continuation of what was previously known as our 'Year 6' and 'Year 7' class. Much of the original musicianship content is still within the syllabus, but the classes have evolved into “bridging years”, meaning they introduce selected concepts from Grade 3 & 4 Trinity College London, Music Theory syllabus alongside the key topics covered in the formal study of music theory.
The bridging years are designed to build a strong foundation in formal music theory, introducing new concepts, terminology and material in a fun, manageable and easy-to-understand way. It is particularly valuable for students planning to take practical instrumental grade exams, as it develops the theoretical knowledge and understanding that supports their practical studies.
At the end of the year, students complete an internal mock theory exam, giving them the opportunity to build confidence and gain valuable experience in an exam setting, without the additional pressure or costs associated with an official examination. These classes introduce students to the language and format of graded Music Theory exams and prepare them to join the Grade 5 class and sit the external exam if they choose to.
Music Theory Grades 5–8
For students who have completed the Grade 4 Bridging year (Year 7) class at LPSM, or equivalent elsewhere, we offer Music Theory Grades 5 – 8 following the Trinity College London syllabus. LPSM Instrumental students receive 50% discounted tuition on all Music Theory classes.
These classes are ideal for students who:
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Wish to complete formal theory grade exams
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Want to deepen their musical understanding
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Are considering Music for the Leaving Certificate and want a strong foundation
Leaving Certificate Preparatory Course
For students in 5th and 6th Year, we will be offering dedicated Leaving Certificate Music Theory classes focused specifically on the written theory components of the course. Interest list for registration will be coming soon!
FAQ's
My child is meant to be in Musicianship Year 6 or Year 7 next year — what happens now?
From next year, Musicianship Years 6 and 7 are becoming Music Theory Grades 3 and 4. This is simply a name and structure change as students move into more advanced theory work. If your child was due to begin Musicianship Year 6, they will now join our Grade 3 bridging class. These classes are designed to gently introduce formal theory concepts in a fun, engaging, and manageable way while continuing to support their instrumental learning. Similarly, if they were due to begin Musicianship Year 7, they will now join our Grade 4 bridging class.
Re-enrolling students: Don’t worry, your Teach N Go account is already set up with the right classes for your child, just select what is available for them.
My child hasn’t been actively attending Musicianship classes — how do I know which class is right for them?
For all queries regarding joining a Musicianship class or Theory class please contact the office for more information.