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Theory and Piano Placement
Music Theory/Musicianship Tests
Like many schools across the nation, we consider music theory and musicianship to be “core” subjects—that is, they are central to the development of sophisticated musicians. Because our top priority is student success, and because we recognize that students come to Sacramento State with very different backgrounds, skill levels, and knowledge in these areas, we want to make sure that all students begin at the right place in the course sequences. In other words, we don’t want anyone to feel overwhelmed on their first day of theory class, and we don’t want anyone to feel underchallenged. In order to determine where students should begin, we hold online “placement exams” before you sign up for your classes.
Please direct questions about the theory and musicianship placement exams to Dr. Shuying Li.
Click on the links below to see sample theory and sight-singing and improvisation exams, and information about the transcription exam.
Piano Placement Information
If you pass the first level of the Theory Placement Exam, you must also take a Piano Placement Exam. You will be placed in a class piano level based on a careful assessment of your current ability at the piano. Contact Paul Salzberg to make an appointment for this virtual (zoom) exam.
In your piano placement evaluation, expect to discuss and/or demonstrate your ability to perform:
- Major and minor scales
- Chord progressions
- Harmonization of a melody
- Melodic transposition
- Sight reading
If you wish, you may also prepare a piece of your choice. All music majors must continuously enroll in class piano until the 14D exit exam has been passed (the 14C exit exam for B.A. students).
If you find that you have an unavoidable conflict with your assigned class time, it is your responsibility to discuss this conflict with the teacher as soon as you are aware of it. If you feel that you have been placed in an inappropriate level, please bring your concerns to the teacher immediately so adjustments can be made.
Please direct questions about the Piano Placement Exam to Professor Paul Salzberg.