Simon Phillips
Music & Drama Practitioner
Simon Phillips
Music & Drama Practitioner
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  • More
    • Home
    • About Me
    • Music Services
      • Piano Tutor
      • ABRSM Music Theory Tutor
      • GCSE Music Tutor
      • A Level Music Tutor
      • Musical Theatre Pianist
      • Exam Accompanist
      • Musical Director
    • Drama Services
      • Audition Coach
      • GCSE Drama Tutor
      • A Level Drama Tutor
      • Theatre Director
Contact Me
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Music Services
    • Piano Tutor
    • ABRSM Music Theory Tutor
    • GCSE Music Tutor
    • A Level Music Tutor
    • Musical Theatre Pianist
    • Exam Accompanist
    • Musical Director
  • Drama Services
    • Audition Coach
    • GCSE Drama Tutor
    • A Level Drama Tutor
    • Theatre Director
Contact Me

ABRSM Music Theory Tuition

I offer specialist music theory tuition for ABRSM graded examinations, helping students build the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in their theory exams. Lessons are suitable for students preparing for Grades 1–5 and beyond, whether they are studying theory alongside instrumental lessons or working towards theory qualifications as a separate goal.


Lessons can take place in person in Chester or online, allowing students from anywhere in the UK or internationally to access tuition.


With extensive experience as a music educator, examiner and practising musician, I help students develop a clear and practical understanding of music theory in a way that supports both exam success and wider musical development.


Why Study Music Theory?

Music theory provides the foundation for understanding how music works. It helps musicians read and interpret notation more confidently and develop a deeper understanding of harmony, rhythm and musical structure.


Many instrumental students also take theory exams because Grade 5 Theory is required before progressing to ABRSM Grade 6 Practical examinations.

Theory tuition can help students feel confident and well prepared when approaching these exams.


What Lessons Cover

Music theory lessons are carefully structured to match the requirements of the ABRSM syllabus.


Depending on the grade being studied, lessons may cover:

  • Reading and writing musical notation
  • Rhythm and time signatures
  • Scales and key signatures
  • Intervals and chords
  • Musical terms and signs
  • Transposition
  • Harmony and cadences
  • Score reading and analysis


Lessons also include practice exam questions and past paper preparation, helping students become familiar with the format and expectations of the exam.


Grades Supported

I regularly support students preparing for:

  • ABRSM Grade 1–5 Theory
  • Preparation for Grade 5 Theory required for higher instrumental exams
  • Support for Grades 6–8 Theory where appropriate


Lessons are adapted to suit the student’s current level and pace of learning.


Online Lessons

Online lessons allow students from anywhere in the UK or internationally to access tuition. Online sessions work very effectively for theory, as materials and exercises can be shared and worked through together in real time.


Students simply need:

  • A computer or tablet
  • A stable internet connection
  • Access to their theory workbook or past papers


Who This Is For

Music theory tuition may be particularly helpful for:

  • Students preparing for ABRSM theory exams
  • Instrumental students who need Grade 5 Theory
  • Students who find theory challenging and benefit from clear explanation
  • Musicians who want to strengthen their understanding of how music works


Lessons are suitable for children, teenagers and adult learners.


Lesson Length and Fees

Lessons are available as:

  • 30 minutes – £25
  • 45 minutes – £35
  • 60 minutes – £45


Sessions are typically arranged on a weekly or fortnightly basis, depending on the student’s goals and the grade they are preparing for.


Getting Started

If you are preparing for an ABRSM Music Theory exam and would like additional support, please feel free to get in touch.


I am always happy to discuss the grade you are working towards and how tuition can help you feel confident and well prepared for your exam.

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