This course is a comprehensive investigation of the 18th century harmonic practices, which have come to form the basis of our Western system of music. Students will strive to attain mastery of aural skills and cognitive concepts to a degree that is commensurate with a first-year collegiate music theory course. In addition to the learning techniques and materials which pertain to writing and reading music, students will develop their listening, sight-singing and analytical skills. Although this course is open to inexperienced or beginning musicians, prior musical experience is highly desirable due to the accelerated pace of the course. Wherever possible, students enrolled in music theory should also belong to a GHS chorus, band or orchestra. As with other AP course at GHS, all students enrolled in this course will be strongly encouraged to take the AP Music Theory examination.