RCM music history, made teachable
Everything I use to get Level 9 and 10 students through the history co-requisite — the study sheets, the way I teach each one, and the workbook that pulls it all together.
Browse the resources
13 resources
Start here
The resources I'd reach for first — and how I actually use them in a lesson.
Bach Family TreeBach Family Tree
free · PDFA printable J.S. Bach family tree that turns a confusing musical lineage into something a student can see at a glance.
RCM History 9 Musical Eras ComparisonRCM History 9 Musical Eras Comparison
free · PDFBaroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern compared on one chart — key features, innovations, and where they overlap.
Guides & exam help
All history guides →What RCM actually means, in plain English
The levels, the theory co-requisites, and what a practical exam day really looks like.
How to book an RCM exam
Session dates, deadlines, and the co-requisite rule that catches families out.
Preparing for a Level 9 history exam
The order I teach the eras in, and the eight weeks before exam day.
Making the eras stick with comic strips
Why drawing the programme of a piece beats reading about it.
Music History Overview Workbook
The free sheets cover the exam's core. The workbook pulls all four eras into one book — listening reviews, essay prep, composer study guides, era comparisons, and study games.
Get the workbook — $15.99New history resources, when they land
Join the list and I'll send the new ones as I add them — no spam, unsubscribe in one click.
The Paperless Piano Teacher is an independent piano studio and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by The Royal Conservatory of Music. RCM® and Royal Conservatory of Music® are trademarks of The Royal Conservatory of Music, referenced here only to describe the examinations these resources help students prepare for.