AP Music Theory provides an opportunity to learn how musicians and composers make music including a deeper understanding of how the music of today was created. Students study elements of pitch, rhythm, melody, chords, harmony, texture, and notation. Students also cover concepts in composition, musical cultures, and music history with a focus in European and American music. Students prepare for the College Board AP Music Theory exam and may qualify for college credit or placement, but one may also enroll in the course without intent to take the exam.