Loading The VR School
Course Catalog
Section F · Visual & Performing ArtsUC Honors · +1.0 GPA
Music Theory
UC A-G approved Music Theory course delivered fully online. Covers music fundamentals, sight-singing, ear training, harmony, voice leading, musical forms, and score analysis. Prepares students for AP Music Theory.
1 Year Online · Remote / Hybrid / In-Person Music Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 10 credits
Section FUC A‑G Requirement
Visual & Performing Arts — 1 year required
One yearlong course (or two semester courses) in dance, drama/theater, music, visual arts, or interdisciplinary arts. Courses must be UC-approved and meet state visual/performing arts content standards.
UC Honors Designation
AP Art History, AP Drawing, AP 2D Art & Design, AP 3D Art & Design, and AP Music Theory all earn 1 extra weighted GPA point.
Why This Matters for College Admission
Arts courses develop creativity and design thinking — skills increasingly valued in tech and business. Many selective UCs view a second or third arts year as a positive differentiator.
What You'll Learn
Read, write, and analyze musical notation in treble and bass clef
Understand music theory: scales, chords, rhythm, and harmonic progression
Compose original short works and arrange existing pieces
Listen critically and analyze works from Western and non-Western traditions
Develop performance skills and rehearsal discipline
Connect music theory to digital audio production and modern composition tools
Course Structure
Semester 1, Unit 1Weeks 1–5
Foundations
- Core vocabulary and concepts
- Foundational skills
- Context-setting activities
Semester 1, Unit 2Weeks 6–12
Core Skills
- Skill-building exercises
- Primary assessments
- Collaborative projects
Semester 2, Unit 1Weeks 13–18
Advanced Concepts
- Deeper conceptual application
- Research and analysis
- Peer-review activities
Semester 2, Unit 2Weeks 19–24
Synthesis & Mastery
- Cross-unit integration
- Final capstone project
- Portfolio submission
Prerequisites & Requirements
Open to qualifying students in grades 9, 10, 11, 12; no prerequisites required
All students complete a placement conversation with our admissions team before enrollment is confirmed. Questions? Contact admissions.