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Music Theory Lessons

Edinburgh Music Theory Lessons

Our Edinburgh music theory lessons cover how and why music works: it's the thread that holds everything together. We teach ABRSM and Trinity theory grades, plus National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher.

4.9 from 325 reviewsPVG-checked tutorsAges 4 to 90+, adults & retirees very welcomeIn-person or online

New to music as an adult, or booking for your child? Explore our adult music lessons and children’s music lessons in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Music Theory Lessons

There are two ways to approach music theory with us: the graded method, sitting ABRSM or Trinity College London exams (some boards require Grade 5 theory before a Grade 6 performance exam, so it's worth starting early), or Rockschool's Popular Music Grades if you're more focused on contemporary styles. For a more relaxed approach, we tailor a non-graded learning plan around how much time you want to commit and what style interests you.

We teach complete beginners through to degree, master's and even PhD level. Some of our own staff are Doctors of Music who lecture at institutions including the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and many former students have gone on to study music at universities worldwide, becoming touring musicians, teachers and lecturers themselves.

Music theory isn't only for exam candidates. A good number of our adult and retired students take theory lessons purely to understand the instrument they already play more deeply, learning to read notation fluently, understand chord construction, or simply satisfy a long-held curiosity about how music actually works.

ABRSM theory and exam books outside the Morningside School of Music premises in Edinburgh
ABRSM theory and exam books outside the Morningside School of Music premises in Edinburgh

Why learn music theory at Morningside?

  • ABRSM & Trinity theory grades, plus Rockschool Popular Music Grades
  • SQA National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher support
  • Staff include Doctors of Music with university lecturing experience
  • Popular with adult and retired students wanting to deepen their understanding

Syllabuses & exam boards for music theory

Music Theory lesson FAQs

Do I need music theory lessons?

For ABRSM Grade 6 and above practical exams you'll need Grade 5 theory first, but theory also helps every musician read, understand and write music with confidence. We teach it as a standalone subject or alongside an instrument.

Which theory exams do you prepare students for?

ABRSM and Trinity theory grades, plus SQA National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher music. You can also learn theory purely for understanding, with no exam at all.

How much do music theory lessons cost?

£36 for a half hour and £59 for a full hour, the same rate as every subject we teach, pay-as-you-go with no contracts.

Can music theory be taught online?

Yes, theory works especially well online, taught live 1-2-1 over video by the same qualified teachers as in person.

One simple rate

£59 for a full hour, £36 for a half hour: the same price for every instrument we teach, in person or online. Pay as you go, no block booking or contracts.

Every teacher at Morningside has their own theory specialism, from rhythm and percussion notation to classical harmony and cadences, so lessons draw on real expertise, not just a textbook.

Begin Your Musical Journey

Ready to get started?

Register your interest and we’ll match you with a tutor, in Morningside, or online, whatever suits you best.