Exploring the Best Resources for Learning Music Theory
Music theory is an essential skill for any musician. It not only helps you understand the fundamental concepts of music but also enables you to communicate effectively with other musicians. Whether you are an aspiring musician or an experienced one looking to brush up on your theory skills, there are plenty of resources available to help you on your journey. In this article, we’ll explore the best resources for learning music theory, covering everything from books to online courses and apps.
Books
Books have been a tried and tested method of learning for centuries, and music theory is no exception. There is a wide range of books available, catering to learners of all levels. Here are a few highly recommended ones:
“Music Theory for Dummies” by Michael Pilhofer and Holly Day
If you’re a complete beginner, this book is a great place to start. It covers all the basics of music theory in an easy-to-understand manner. The book also includes exercises and practice questions to test your knowledge and reinforce your learning.
“The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Music Theory” by Michael Miller
Similar to the “For Dummies” series, “The Complete Idiot’s Guide” is a comprehensive guide to music theory. It covers everything from reading sheet music to understanding chords and scales. The book also includes audio tracks to help you develop your ear-training skills.
“Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert” by Nicolas Carter
If you’re looking for a more in-depth study of music theory, this book is an excellent resource. It covers everything from the basics to advanced topics like harmony and composition. The book also includes diagrams and visual aids to help you grasp the concepts better.
Online Courses
If you prefer a more interactive and visually engaging way of learning, online courses are a great option. Here are some highly recommended ones:
Coursera’s “Fundamentals of Music Theory” by The University of Edinburgh
This online course is offered by the prestigious University of Edinburgh and covers all the fundamental concepts of music theory. It includes video lectures, quizzes, and assignments to track your progress. You also have the option to audit the course for free.
Udemy’s “Music Theory Comprehensive” by Jason Allen
This course is aimed at beginners and covers everything from the basics of music theory to writing your own music. It includes video lectures, quizzes, and practice exercises. The course also offers a certificate upon completion.
MasterClass’ “Herbie Hancock Teaches Jazz” by Herbie Hancock
If you’re interested in learning music theory from a jazz perspective, this MasterClass is a must-watch. In this series of video lessons, legendary jazz musician Herbie Hancock teaches improvisation and composition techniques. This course is perfect for intermediate to advanced learners.
Apps
In today’s digital age, there are also plenty of apps available that can help you learn music theory on the go. Here are a few popular ones:
Perfect Ear Trainer
This app offers a comprehensive ear training program that includes exercises for note recognition, intervals, chords, and scales. It also has a progress tracker to help you keep track of your improvement.
Music Tutor
Similar to Perfect Ear Trainer, Music Tutor focuses on improving your ear-training skills. It includes exercises for note recognition, intervals, scales, and chords. The app also offers customizable training sessions to suit your individual needs.
EarMaster
EarMaster is an all-in-one music theory app that covers everything from ear training to theory lessons. It includes over 2,500 exercises, progress tracking, and customizable training. The app also offers the option to sync your progress across multiple devices.
Learning music theory may seem daunting at first, but with the abundance of resources available, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Whether you prefer books, online courses, or apps, it’s essential to find the method that works best for you. With dedication and practice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a music theory expert.
