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Exam practice
RCM Level 5 music theory practice test
Timed practice for RCM Level 5 Music Theory, set out in the board's own sections. Every answer comes with an explanation.
About the exam
Theory Level 5 is a written theory exam from The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM).
This practice test covers Level 5: pitch, rhythm, keys, intervals, chords, melody writing, history and analysis.
Who takes it and why
Students in Canada and the US take it with the Level 5 practical exam. From Level 5, an RCM certificate needs both exams. It leads to Level 6.
The sections
- Section 1 · Pitch and NotationClefs, ledger lines and enharmonic notes.This section has 7 questions.
- Section 2 · Rhythm and MeterTime signatures, rests and grouping.This section has 8 questions.
- Section 3 · Scales and Key SignaturesMajor and minor keys and their scales.This section has 9 questions.
- Section 4 · IntervalsIdentifying intervals by size and quality.This section has 8 questions.
- Section 5 · Chords and HarmonyTriads, dominant sevenths and cadences.This section has 8 questions.
- Section 6 · Melody Writing, Form and AnalysisWriting a consequent phrase and identifying its form.This section has 10 questions.
- Section 7 · Music HistoryComposers, styles and works.This section has 7 questions.
- Section 8 · Terms and SignsItalian terms and performance signs.This section has 7 questions.
- Section 9 · AnalysisQuestions on a short score.This section has 8 questions.
Timing
Exam mode runs a clock of 1 hour for the whole practice test.
The full practice test holds 72 questions.
Sample questions
Sample 1
In F major, the chord C4–F4–A4 is the subdominant triad with C in the bass. Which description is correct?
- I, root position
- V, second inversion
- IV, first inversion
- IV, second inversion
The answer is D, IV, second inversion.
F–A–C spells the IV triad in F major. C is the fifth of F–A–C, so when C is the lowest note the subdominant triad is in second inversion.
Certificate of Completion
Each course on the site ends with a Certificate of Completion. You earn it when every lesson in the course is complete.
See the courses →Questions and answers
How long is the RCM Level 5 Music Theory practice test?
Exam mode gives 1 hour for the whole practice test. It holds 72 questions.
What sections does the RCM Level 5 Music Theory practice test cover?
It follows the board's order in nine sections, from Pitch and Notation to Analysis.
Are the answers explained?
Yes. Each answer comes with an explanation of why it is correct.
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