The Best Way to Learn Music Theory

Learning music theory enables you to properly read sheet music.

Being a good musician does not rely upon knowledge of theory, but having this knowledge creates greater opportunities for understanding the intricacies of music. Music theory includes reading and writing music, understanding notations and melodies, learning how harmonies work and knowing how to keep a proper beat. Music theory is most often learned through a combination of music lessons, theory classes, practical applications and reading books about theory.

Instructions

1. Take lessons from a professional musician in the instrument of your choice. Your instructor will be able to help you understand how to read music notation.

2. Read some books about music theory. Your local bookstore or online book retailer will have many books to choose from. Look for introductory books to begin your education and progressively move to more complicated and specific books.

3. Take music theory classes at a local university or community college. Introductory music theory classes are offered at many schools and will help you gain an understanding of the basics. If a more advanced education is desired, undergraduate and graduate degrees are offered on music theory at many schools.

4. Apply your knowledge of theory as you are learning it by practicing singing or playing a musical instrument. This helps to cement the knowledge that you are receiving through books and classes.

5. Practice writing music and then playing or singing the music that you write. This also helps to deepen your education because you are using different skills at the same time.

References

• Mississippi State University: Music Theory Curriculum
• College Board: AP: Music Theory
• Easy Music Theory: Why You NEED Music Theory