One of the subjects that applicants can write on the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) administered by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is music. The production and performance of sounds, melodies, rhythms, and harmonies constitute the art form of music. There are many uses for music, including healing, education, communication, expression, and amusement.
You must adequately prepare for the JAMB Music exam if you want to study music or related subjects in any of Nigeria’s postsecondary educational institutions. Using the JAMB-recommended music textbooks is one of the greatest ways to get ready. The syllabus and goals of the music exam are covered in these carefully chosen textbooks by JAMB.
We will give you the list of JAMB-recommended music 2025–2026 textbooks in this post. We’ll also provide you with some pointers on how to make the most of these textbooks.
List of JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Music 2025/2026
- Akpabot, S. E. (1986). Foundation of Nigerian Traditional Music, Ibadan: Spectrum.
- Associated Board of the Royal School of Music (1958). Rudiments and Theory of Music, London.
- Cole, W. (1969). The Form of Music, London: The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
- Echezona, W. W. C. (1981). Nigerian Musical Instruments, Enugu: Apollo Publishing Ltd.
- Ekwueme, L. (1993). Choir Training and Choral Conducting for Africans, Lagos: Lenaus Advertising and Publishing Company.
- Holst, I. (1963). An ABC of Music, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
- Hosier (1961). Instruments of the Orchestra, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
- Hunt, R. (1960). Elements of Music.
- Inanga, A. (1993). Music for Secondary Schools Vols. I and II, Ibadan: Spectrum.
- Kamien, R. (1990). Music: An Appreciation, London: McGraw-Hill Publishing Company.
- Kennedy, M. (1985). The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Music, (Third Edition), London: Oxford University Press.
- Kitson, C. H. (1978). Elementary Harmony Book 2, London: Oxford University Press.
- Kofoworola, Z. O. And Lateef, Y. (1987). Hausa Performing Arts and Music, Lagos: Nigeria Magazine.
- Lovelock, W. (1953). A Concise History of Music, London: Bell and Hyman.
- Lovelock, W. (1996). The Rudiments of Music, London: G. Bell and Sons Limited.
- Machlis, J. (1977). The Enjoyment of Music, New York: W. W. Norton.
- Mensah, A. A. (Undated) Folksongs for Schools, Accra.
- Morris, R. O. (1974). The Oxford Harmony, Vol. I, London: Oxford University Press.
- Nketia, J. H. (1974). African Music, New York: W. W. Norton Company.
- Palmer, K. (1965). Teach Yourself Music, London: The English University Press Limited.
- Reed, H. O. (1954). Basic Music: A Basic Theory Text, New York: N. Y. Mills Music Inc.
- Taylor, E. (1989). The Guide to Music Theory, London: The Associated Board of The Royal School of Music.
- Warburton, A. O. (1955). Graded Music Course for Schools, Books I–III, London: Longman.
These textbooks address a number of subjects covered in the JAMB Music curriculum, including:
- Comparative Music Studies
- Elementary Harmony
- Elementary Composition
- History and Literature of African Music
- History and Literature of Western Music
- Rudiments of Music
How to Use JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Music 2025/2026
Using the Music 2025/2026 JAMB-recommended texts alone won’t ensure you pass the test. You must make effective and efficient use of them. The following advice can help you do that:
Carefully review the JAMB Music curriculum and objectives to comprehend the knowledge required for each subject.
Select one or two textbooks based on your preferences and learning style. It is not necessary for you to read every textbook on the list. When you require further explanation or examples, you can utilize some as references or supplements.
Make notes on the main ideas, definitions, terminology, signs, abbreviations, etc. after carefully reading each topic. Additionally, you can improve your memory by using mnemonics, charts, tables, and diagrams.
Practice answering previous textbook or other source questions and exercises. This will assist you in assessing how well you comprehend and apply the knowledge you have gained. Additionally, it will introduce you to the structure and methodology of the JAMB Music exam.
Regularly go over your notes and make revisions to what you have learnt. Avoid memorizing or cramming everything at once. You must comprehend and remember the material for a considerable amount of time.
To debate and exchange ideas with other candidates preparing for the JAMB Music exam, join a study group or forum. If you have any questions or concerns, you can also ask your teachers or tutors for clarification.
Textbook FAQs
What are JAMB-recommended textbooks?
JAMB-recommended textbooks are study materials suggested by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for students preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). These books cover the approved syllabus and provide detailed explanations and practice questions for each subject.
Where can I find the list of JAMB-recommended textbooks?
You can find the list in the official JAMB syllabus, which is available on the JAMB website or in accredited JAMB study centers. Some educational bookstores also include the list in printed study guides for candidates.
Are JAMB-recommended textbooks mandatory for UTME preparation?
No, they are not mandatory, but they are highly recommended because they align closely with the JAMB syllabus. Using these textbooks ensures that you cover all the essential topics and concepts likely to appear on the exam.
Do the textbooks cover all the subjects in the JAMB syllabus?
Yes, JAMB-recommended textbooks cover all subjects offered in the UTME, such as English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Government, Literature-in-English, and others.
Can I pass JAMB without using the recommended textbooks?
While it is possible to pass without using the recommended textbooks, they provide a significant advantage by offering targeted content, practice questions, and explanations that align with the UTME's structure. Alternative textbooks can be used, but they may not cover the syllabus as comprehensively.
Are JAMB-recommended textbooks updated regularly?
Yes, JAMB updates the recommended textbook list periodically to ensure it includes the most relevant and up-to-date materials. It is important to use the latest syllabus and textbook list for your preparation.
How can I get affordable copies of JAMB-recommended textbooks?
You can purchase affordable copies of JAMB-recommended textbooks from:
- Local bookstores or second-hand bookshops.
- Online platforms like Jumia, Konga, or Amazon (for digital or hard copies).
- Borrowing from libraries or friends who previously prepared for JAMB. Some educational centers also sell these textbooks at discounted rates.
Conclusion
JAMB recommended textbooks for Music 2025/2026 are essential resources that can help you prepare well for the JAMB Music examination. They contain relevant and reliable information that covers the syllabus and objectives of the examination. However, you need to use them effectively and efficiently by following the tips we have provided in this post.
We hope this post has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.
