AP Music Theory

Exam Breakdown

Section I: Multiple Choice | 75 Questions | 1 Hour and 20 Minutes | 45% of Exam Score

10-12 Individual Questions and 13 Sets with 4-6 Questions Each

41-43 Aural Questions - Timed Recording with Repetitions and Pauses

32-24 Non-Aural Questions


Section IIA: Free Response - Written | 7 Questions | 1 Hour and 10 Minutes | 45% of Exam Score

Melodic Dictation: 2 Questions

Harmonic Dictation: 2 Questions

Part Writing Analysis: Figured Bass | 1 Question

Part Writing Analysis: Roman Numerals | 1 Question

Harmonization of Melody: 1 Question

Section IIB: Free Response - Sight-Singing | 2 Questions |10 Minutes | 10% of Exam Score

75 Seconds for Practice and 30 Seconds to Perform

Units

Unit 1: Music Fundamentals 1 - Pitch, Major Scales and Key Signatures, Rhythm, Meter, and Expressive Elements

Unit 2: Music Fundamentals 2 - Minor Scales and Key Signatures, Melody, Timbre, and Texture

Unit 3: Music Fundamentals 3 - Triads and Seventh Chords

Unit 4: Harmony and Voice Leading I - Chord Function, Cadence, and Phrase

Unit 5: Harmony and Voice Leading II - Chord Progressions and Predominant Function

Unit 6: Harmony and Voice Leading III - Embellishments, Motives, and Melodic Devices

Unit 7: Harmony and Voice Leading IV - Secondary Function

Unit 8: Modes and Form


Resources