Pass Grade 5 Theory [2nd Edition]

This weighty workbook has been put together in such a way as to make grade 5 theory seem not quite so daunting. Each subject (time signatures or transposition for example) is dealt with from the beginning to the required level. There is plenty in the way of simple explanation and this is backed up by imaginative diagrams to reinforce various points. The section on beaming notes together is especially good in this respect. The last unit is entitled 'General Questions' and divided into the 5 topics that can often be overlooked (ornaments, instruments of the orchestra, keyboard instruments, voices and the clefs they use, and performance directions). The advice at the beginning of the book is to start work on this section right now -'the sooner you start the better'. Dorothy Dingle is obviously very experienced in teaching this subject and it's great that she has decided to share her expertise. Despite its cost, this is a valuable addition to the teaching of theory and a really good supplement to the more usual material.