TMTA SA Theory Tests

Description and Purpose of Event

This important test is a prerequisite to participate in many other activities and promotes the knowledge and functional use of music theory. Evaluation is via a standardized test (Levels 1 – 12) and is open to any student who is also a Student Affiliate member.

In order to register for the theory test, your student MUST also be enrolled in SA (Student Affiliate). Reach out to the SA chair, Norman Schack, for anything SA related at njschack@gmail.com

Eligibility

• 1st – 12th grade Student Affiliate Members
• Student Affiliate members planning to participate in state-level activities must enter the test level at their school grade and pass with a grade of 70 or higher. However, if it is their first time taking the test, a student may take one test level below their grade and still be eligible for participation in other TMTA-SA events.
• TMTA Eligibility Requirement:
  • Grade 1 – Level 1
  • Grade 2 – Level 1 or 2
  • Grade 3 – Levels 1, 2, or 3
  • Grade 4 – Levels 2, 3, or 4
  • Grade 5 – Levels 3, 4, or 5
  • Grades 6–12 – Minimum of Level 4 through the level equal to (but not above) the current school grade
• Students may enter any test level below their school grade if they are not participating in state-level activities. Students who test below their school grade level and earn a score of 90 or higher will be eligible for a Theory Achievement Medal.
• Vocal or Instrumental Students may enter Level I if they have not taken the theory test before.

Registration Deadlines and Procedures

FALL TEST:

The entry form and payment must be received by September 30, 2026.

SPRING TEST:

The entry form and payment must be received by December 30, 2026.

PROCEDURES:

• Teachers who have students participating MUST apply one of the following:
  • Volunteer on at least one testing day.
  • Send someone else to volunteer (another teacher, parent, or high school student – a great opportunity for high school volunteer hours)
  • Help with paperwork either before or after testing.
• Failing to apply one of the above will prevent you from signing up students for the theory test the following year.
• Graded tests may be picked up from the Kawai Piano Gallery, 5800 Richmond Houston TX 77057

Event Fees

$21 per student / discounted rate of $20 per student when paying via Zelle or Check.

You may pay by credit card here.

You may also pay through Zelle tag (HMTAtreasurer) or by check. If paying by check, make the check out to HMTA-SA, and bring it to the October meeting on October 14, 2026.

Study Materials

Study materials may be found online at https://www.tmta.org/sa_materials_orders/new

Or ordered from:

TMTA TMTEF Office

PO Box 831730

Richardson TX 75083-1730

512-927-7356

Awards

1. Medal rankings: Bronze Medal (90-93), Silver Medal (94-97), and Gold Medal (98-101)
2. A certificate to all who earn a passing grade of 70 or above.
3. Any student earning a medal in each grade level of a division (I-III, IV-VI, VII-IX, X-XII) will also earn a division award certificate.
4. Senior Awards: certificates, engraved plaques and cash awards are available to graduating seniors who have taken and passed the Theory Test throughout their years of music instruction.