How to Read Sheet Music Fast: a Step‑by‑step Method from a Music Theory Professor

Reading sheet music can be a daunting task for many musicians, but with the right approach and techniques, it can become a second nature skill. In this article, we will explore a step-by-step method developed by a music theory professor to help you read sheet music quickly and effectively. Understanding the Basics of Sheet Music … Read more

How to Practice Music Theory: Daily Routines That Actually Improve Your Playing

Practicing music theory is essential for any musician looking to enhance their playing skills. Understanding the underlying principles of music can lead to better improvisation, composition, and overall musicality. This article will provide you with daily routines that can help you effectively practice music theory and improve your playing. The Importance of Music Theory Music … Read more

How to Harmonize a Melody: Four‑part Writing Tips from the Music Theory Professor

Harmonizing a melody can seem daunting, but with a few fundamental principles, anyone can create beautiful four-part harmony. This article will explore essential tips for writing harmonies that enhance a melody while maintaining musical integrity. Understanding Four-Part Harmony Four-part harmony typically involves four voices: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. Each voice plays a distinct role … Read more

How to Build Any Chord: Triads, Seventh Chords, Extended and Altered Harmony

Understanding how to build chords is fundamental for musicians and composers. Chords are the building blocks of harmony, and knowing how to construct them can enhance your musical creativity. In this article, we will explore how to build various types of chords, including triads, seventh chords, and extended and altered harmony. Triads Triads are the … Read more

How to Analyze Songs Like a Music Theory Professor: a Complete Framework

Analyzing songs can be a rewarding experience, allowing listeners to gain a deeper understanding of music. Whether you are a teacher, student, or music enthusiast, employing a structured approach to song analysis can enhance your appreciation and comprehension of musical works. In this article, we will explore a complete framework for analyzing songs like a … Read more

Harmonic Analysis of Popular Songs: What Hit Tracks Teach About Music Theory

Harmonic analysis is a powerful tool used by musicians, composers, and educators to understand the underlying structures of music. By examining popular songs, we can gain insights into music theory, chord progressions, and compositional techniques that resonate with listeners. In this article, we will explore how hit tracks illustrate key concepts in harmonic analysis. The … Read more

Functional Harmony Explained: Tonic, Dominant, Subdominant in Real Songs

Functional harmony is a fundamental concept in music theory that helps to understand how chords interact within a piece of music. In this article, we will explore the roles of the tonic, dominant, and subdominant chords, and illustrate these concepts with examples from real songs. Understanding Functional Harmony Functional harmony is based on the relationships … Read more

From Beginner to Advanced: a Structured Music Theory Curriculum You Can Follow at Home

Music theory is the foundation of understanding how music works. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your knowledge, having a structured curriculum can greatly enhance your learning experience. This article provides a comprehensive guide to a music theory curriculum you can follow at home, from the basics to more advanced concepts. Getting Started … Read more

Enharmonic Spelling and Double Sharps: Why Notation Details Really Matter

In the world of music theory, enharmonic spelling and the use of double sharps are essential concepts that can greatly affect the interpretation and performance of a piece. Understanding these elements is crucial for both students and educators in the field of music. What is Enharmonic Spelling? Enharmonic spelling refers to the way in which … Read more

Ear Training 101: How to Hear Intervals, Chords, and Progressions Like a Pro

Ear training is an essential skill for musicians, composers, and anyone interested in understanding music more deeply. It involves developing the ability to identify pitches, intervals, chords, and progressions by ear. This article will guide you through the basics of ear training, helping you to hear intervals, chords, and progressions like a pro. What is … Read more