Beginner Music Theory Aspiring College Music Majors Need to Know
During my years of teaching elementary, high-school, and college students, I have found that it is best to tell them they need to learn and master music theory three different ways: In your head, using music manuscript paper, or on a melodic, chordal instrument. Then, and only then, can you say that you truly understand and know the basic areas of music theory. This means you need to understand these concepts intellectually and be able read and write them on music paper.
Music Theory Placement Examination
The following topics are not usually required for acceptance into a music program at a Conservatory or University Music Department. They are also rarely included in the audition/application process. Your familiarity and command of the material will be tested during your first week at college. Your ability to understand and apply these basic music concepts will determine your placement in the first semester (Theory or Harmony or Composition).
If you demonstrate a working understanding of these topics, you may be “advanced-placed” (with credit), into a higher grade. You will be placed into a Level I course or possibly remedial level courses if you do not have a working knowledge of these subjects. It’s always better to be prepared and to have more advanced students around you in class than to struggle with the fundamentals of music theory during first semester.
Concepts that Music Majors need to know about Beginner Music Theory
Before you go to college, here are my recommendations on what topics in music theory you should be familiar with .
Read music fluently in both the treble clef and bass clef.
Order your key signatures: Circle of 5ths, Circle of 4ths. The order of keys and the accidentals within each key must be known. Start with C major, no sharps or flats. Then progress around the circle 5th for sharps and circle 4ths (flats) for each key.
Major Scales: Know all 15 major scales (seven sharp scales and seven flat scales starting with C).
Intervals: Be able to construct all major, minor and perfect intervals in your head and on paper. You can also play them on an instrument. (2nds; 3rds, 4ths, 5ths, 6ths, 7ths, 8ves).
Triads: Know the 4 types of triads (majors, minors, augmented and diminished), their scale-wise formula (1-3-5) and be able construct them above any base note.
Seventh chords: Just like with triads, you should learn all the 7th chords.
These basic topics in music theory are essential to understanding your music theory/harmony class. You can move on to the next topics by knowing these basics, just like your address.
- The three types of minor modes/scales.
- Transpositions of the different instrumental groups (and individual instruments).
- Analyzing chord progressions. Each is analyzed and notated in a different way.
- Orchestration/Arranging.
- Species Counterpoint.
- Composing your own music is easy.
Resources for Students and Courses on Beginning Music Theory
There are many different ways to study and learn the material. It is important that you master this material completely, be tested on it and know the fundamentals of your trade.
Online music theory courses or private tutoring
You can also incorporate theory into your private lessons. You can also use YouTube videos or theory books. There are online courses for music theory that will meet the needs of almost any student, whether you’re a novice or brushing up in preparation for college. There are many options available for you to choose from. You can work at your pace, around your schedule or earn a certificate. There are many free courses available. Others are offered for a small fee. Here are some options, but it is not an exhaustive list. It only takes a few minutes of research online to find the best music theory course for you.
Interlochen Online
Coursera
EdX
MyMusicTheory
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