All in One to Grade 5 (Theory) by Rachel Billings

All-In-One to Grade 5 is a concise, yet fully comprehensive, step-by step explanation of music theory from beginner to Grade 5 for both Associated Board (ABRSM) and Trinity College London students. ABRSM students will need no further material however Trinity students require the short (26 page) ‘Trinity Supplement’ booklet to use alongside this book  .

‘The most recent edition (THIRD EDITION) features further simplification throughout the book, making it even more accessible to the young beginner and more suitable for students taking the individual grades en route to grade 5 without, most crucially, losing All-In-One’s integrated approach.’ (Quoted from preface page)

A RADICALLY NEW TEACHING APPROACH which dispenses with the usual rote learning and instead exposes simple rules and patterns, enabling students to work things out for themselves. Provides an in depth knowledge of music theory with minimal effort!

• Suitable for child or adult. Mnemonics & memorable illustrations reinforce information learnt rather than being merely decorative.
• Clear, progressive papers.
• Graded checklists (Associated Board and Trinity College London)
• Comprehensive revision papers.
• Fun and highly original games with appeal to students of every age.
• Explanation ‘why’ rules and conventions exist (not just what)
• Self-explanatory and easy to understand. Complete without the need of a teacher!

A valuable fast track from beginner to Grade 5 music theory required by exam boards, colleges and universities. This book is both an explanation, workbook and reference book in one handy manual, containing all the practice material you need. Appeals to a wide range from young children to adults, pianist and instrumentalist alike and frees up valuable lesson time for the instrumental work it supports.

Please note, ‘Fast-track’ does NOT imply that music theory is taught in a less thorough fashion (this is an assumption made by people who haven’t seen the book, which couldn’t be further from the truth; “Extremely thorough” say Rhinegold Music Teacher magazine – the UK’s leading resource for music education). This book will ‘Fast-track’ you to grade 5 but speed is not in fact the core goal. Aim for comprehension and speed comes naturally as a by-product (largely because this book avoids the traditional, time-consuming rote learning). See the Review page to read what the professionals themselves have to say about All-In-One to Grade 5.