Music Theory at the Academy

The Academy takes theory seriously - as seriously as one’s chosen instrument, in fact. Mandatory weekly theory classes cover both traditional theoretical aspects of music (such as notation, scales/chords, harmony, ear training etc) and the application of these principles- i.e. playing in a band. The Academy believes that theory taught in isolation of actual music making is the reason why many music students ofttimes do no engage with this vital topic.

The Academy’s approach enables the retention of valuable theoretical aspects of music by rendering the theoretical practical-thus students engage with theory as it will be needed in the following week’s ensemble class. This approach has been found to be enormously successful. The ratio of theory classes to ensemble is commensurate to the grade- thus students of higher grades do slightly more ensemble/band classes. The Academy has a series of bespoke publications that go hand-in-hand with graded theory syllabi. These books serve as both a reference text to accompany a class, a work book for in-class exercises and a method of revision prior to exams.

Ensemble classes (done in the same class groupings as theory) are where the theoretical becomes practical, if not vital. Students get to experience the thrill of playing in a live band setting with their peers- very often the reason for their interest in music to begin with. A variety of styles are covered over the grades, with songs being chosen in as democratic a fashion as possible- i.e. student input is welcome.
The pedagogical underpinnings of The Academy state very clearly that music that is culturally relevant and experienced by the student will be the greatest facilitator of student success. Every effort is made by theory instructors at the Academy to ensure that the music played is liked by the students involved. Thus, whilst the setlist played by each grade year on year is apt to change, the theoretical concepts, and more importantly standard and understanding achieved by the student, will not.

Of note here also is that songwriting is a topic that is flourishing at the Academy. “Joined-up thinking” between theory and songwriting tutors ensures that the students own compositions feature aspects of theory covered in class- and provide yet another reinforcement of this vital musical element.

Far-sighted parents might well be making the link between music education and career success. Music’s requirement for high-level abstract reasoning (theory) combined with interpersonal skills (ensemble) are unusual in today’s educational milieu. These normally mutually exclusive skill sets are in great demand by other disciplines (such as medicine or law), thus the high correlation of career success with prior music education.
Lastly, and of immense importance, are the bonds formed between peers whilst at theory/band class. The combination of youthful enthusiasm, a creative and nurturing environment and great teachers has led to immense social benefits for students that hitherto found group interaction difficult. The facilitation of this vital element is done with great care and subtly by dedicated Academy staff. Read more about what parents say about us here.

Karl started studying music at an early stage, going on to win prestigious scholarships to Berkley (Boston), Skidmore (New York) and Juillard School of Music. Karl has played and/or recorded with artists/shows such as Susan Vega, Katie Melua, Jack Johnson, The Commitments, The Four Tops, The Drifters, Andrew Strong, Jack Jones, Rebecca Storm, Sharon Sharon, Imelda May, The Rat Pack Tour and Blood Brothers. Karl lectures in harmony and musicianship and holds degrees in psychology and music.

Colin is a bassist, MD, producer and composer hailing from Blarney, Cork. He graduated from Cork School of Music with a first class honours degree in popular music in 2022. He is set to complete a masters in Commercial Composition in the Cork School of Music in 2024. He has played with many bands, both covers and originals, over the years. Most recently he has played with The Burma on their Irish and UK tour dates. He has a keen interest in musical theatre and has played on numerous shows most notably the Sister Act tour in the INEC and the Cork Opera House Panto. He arranged and orchestrated a version of Easy Street from Annie that was played by the RTE concert orchestra as part of their “A Night at the Musicals” program. Colin has worked at the Academy of Popular Music since 2021. He teaches theory and junior house band.

A past student of the Academy, Stephen has been studying music for over a decade. He started teaching himself guitar in 2009 and piano in 2011, and in 2015 won the award for Special Initiative with the County Cork School of Music. This was followed up by performing solo piano in City Hall to a full house. In recent years he has completed the BaPM with first degree honours, specialising in guitar and piano, but with an extra keen love for theory. He keeps himself busy by teaching music freelance as well as in multiple music schools, with dozens of students being taught one-to-one weekly. Stephen joined the Academy in 2021 as a tutor, and finds it an ideal place to hone his skills in teaching, and looks forward to getting to know the future wave of musicians for Cork and beyond.

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