Quick Fact Sheet on Music Theory

Music theory in Western harmony refers to the set of guidelines that have been established by J.S. Bach and elaborated on by various composers over the last several centuries. Music theory guidelines do not always apply to jazz, pop or other modern-day genres.

Staff Notation

Interpreting the lines, spaces and ledger lines of the four most common clefs in standard Western music notation (treble, bass, tenor and alto clef) is the basis of music theory.

Scale Theory

Major and minor scale theory is not only a matter of simple memorization, but it is also important in terms of the function of leading tone, tonic and dominant functions.

Voice Leading Rules

Understanding the function of each scale degree also pertains to notes that do not occur in a scalar fashion (i.e., leaps between notes that do not appear in the order of the scale). "Voice leading" refers to the guidelines in which common practice Western harmony approaches these leaps in four-part harmony.

Chord Theory: Tonic

Basic chord theory of tonic-functioning chords should be limited at this point to I, i and the first inversion of these two chords.

Chord Theory: Pre-Dominant

Pre-dominant chord theory should be limited (in major and minor modes) to IV (and iv), vi (and VI) and ii fully diminished.

Chord Theory: Dominant

Dominant chord function should refer to V and second inversion I and i 6/4 chords. Advanced theory should also include chromatic applied and seventh chords.

References

• Music Theory Lessons

Resources

• New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians