KITS Music Theory Curriculum
Preparing Students to Excel on the KITS Tests
The KITS Music Theory Curriculum: Step by Step is a music teacher’s outline of material included on the KITS exams on each of the seven levels, with sample test questions offered, like those appearing on the annual examinations. There are seven levels, Primary through Step 6, taking the student from the earliest grades to the senior year of high school. Four basic subjects are covered, including:
1) Reading
Reading begins at the Primary level with “keyboard geography,” progressing on to note reading, music symbols, key signatures, and rhythm fundamentals. The scale is an important concept first explored in Step 1. At higher levels, interval theory is introduced, along with the species of triads and finally, harmonic analysis.
2) Vocabulary
Vocabulary begins with recognition and naming of symbols, tempo, and dynamic markings, later adding Italian and other terms deemed relevant to the repertoire a student might be studying at a given level. At each Step, the student is responsible not only for the new vocabulary but also for the list from the prior Step, thereby continually reinforcing this knowledge.
3) Listening
Listening refers to the development of aural skills, beginning at Step 1 in recognizing intervals (2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 8ve), major and minor scales and triads, and discerning the meter, i.e. the number of counts per measure. Gradually, more intervals are added, plus different forms of the minor scale and different types of triads. At Step 3, rhythmic dictation is introduced, and at Step 5, melodic dictation.
4) Playing
Playing or applied skills also begin at Step 1 with simple scales and cadences. More keys are added at higher Steps, along with more advanced scale and cadence requirements, until at Step 6, the student is expected to be able to play four-octave scales in all major and minor keys, plus the cadence, I IV I V V7 I, in all positions. Teachers using the program in the classroom or with instruments other than piano are permitted to adapt the applied skills requirement appropriately.
1) Reading
2) Vocabulary
3) Listening
4) Playing
Teach Music With Confidence
The Keynote Independent Theory Service provides a comprehensive suite of materials designed to support independent music teachers and enhance the overall student learning experience. From The KITS Music Theory Curriculum: Step by Step to The KITS Music Theory Course, these materials are crafted to make learning engaging and effective, paving the way for students to excel in music at all levels. To explore the full range of music theory resources, visit our Course Materials page.
