Starting this August, William Pu Music Academy is offering a new group music theory course open to all academy students. This offering is a long-anticipated addition to the academy and one that reflects WPMA’s commitment to providing the best possible music education opportunities to our students.
While many American state music programs limit theory instruction to a single semester of high school, AP Music Theory—if it’s even offered at all—our new theory class is built on the belief that theory should be studied early and consistently for maximum impact on a student’s growth as a musician. In countries across Europe and Asia, music theory is woven into the core of music education from a young age, equipping students with the foundational tools to read, understand, and interpret music deeply and fluently. We believe that our students deserve the same!
The Global Gap in Music Literacy
The lack of comprehensive music theory instruction in most U.S. programs has created a significant gap between American students and their international peers. Without fluency in theory, students often rely on rote memorization and imitation rather than developing a true understanding of the music they play.
With this in mind, we have spent years observing, researching, and studying theory curricula used in pre-college and collegiate programs across the United States and abroad. The result is a robust, thoughtfully designed course that introduces students to the principles of music theory, rhythm, and ear training in a highly interactive, engaging, and age-appropriate format.
A Thoughtfully Crafted Curriculum
Our theory classes will be led by Dr. Valentina Ignjic, a seasoned educator with extensive experience teaching theory in both group and private settings. Dr. Ignjic brings deep expertise and a nurturing approach to the classroom—creating a simultaneously motivating and encouraging environment for students to learn.
Each class will be capped at a small size to allow for individualized attention and hands-on learning. While the curriculum is anchored by the internationally recognized ABRSM theory syllabus, students will also benefit from a rich variety of supporting materials drawn from WPMA’s growing library of leading music theory, rhythm, and aural skills resources.
What Is ABRSM?
ABRSM (The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) is among one of the world’s most prominent and recognized music examination boards. Based in the United Kingdom and affiliated with institutions such as the Royal Academy of Music and Royal College of Music, ABRSM sets the global standard for music exams and curriculum.
WPMA’s theory course will follow ABRSM’s Levels 1 through 5 theory levels, which cover notation, rhythm, intervals, harmony, musical terms, and analysis from beginner-to-collegiate level study. These levels provide a logical progression for students and ensure they are developing genuine musical fluency—not just test-taking skills.
Students will begin the class at different book levels depending on their current theory knowledge. Academy students enrolled in our theory class who demonstrate a deep understanding of the material taught will also have the option to take the official ABRSM online theory exams. Scoring well on these exams are not only meaningful for aspiring music majors—they are also valuable additions to college applications for non-music majors, as they demonstrate long-term discipline, literacy, and artistic achievement.
A Commitment to Great Musical Literacy
Strong musicianship starts with a deep understanding of fundamentals—an unshakable sense of rhythm, the ability to hear notes before they are played, and understanding the why behind the structure and notes of written music. Our new group theory classes are designed to equip students with the tools they need to make sense of what they hear, what they play, and what they create. By pairing world-class theory education with private instrument lessons, we’re providing academy students an experience that most students in the U.S. never receive.
We invite interested families to learn more about our group theory classes and how they can become a part of your child’s musical journey. Class spots are limited.
To inquire or register for WPMA’s group music theory classes, visit www.wpmusicacademy.com/private-music-lessons.
