
The following music theory courses offer varying levels of interactivity. One of the best ways to learn music theory is by taking a modern course with interactive training elements to help you apply what you’re learning and get feedback on your progress. What is the best way to learn music theory? The next section lists some highly rated courses that can help you learn music theory faster. If you don’t have a teacher who can answer your questions, the next best choice is a modern music theory course with interactive elements. However, as you progress to more advanced theory, some concepts can be challenging to grasp without hands-on application and, ideally, the help of a music teacher.

As you might expect from a book that was written in the 1700s, you’ll find no mention of music notation software herein. This book is an excellent reference for composers who write their notation by hand and want to make it look more appealing. The Norton Manual of Music Notation by George Heussenstamm.A guide to both traditional and contemporary music notation, including lead sheets, lyrics, guitar tablature, slash notation, and fretboard diagrams. Berklee Contemporary Music Notation by Jonathan Feist.However, it doesn’t contain information on guitar and drum notation. This book is extremely comprehensive in its coverage of standard music notation. Behind Bars: The Definitive Guide to Music Notation by Elaine Gould.What are the best music notation books?īelow are some excellent music notation books for classical and contemporary music and rhythm writing: Harmony has a workbook available for separate purchase.

The scope of the book is equivalent to a one- or two-year undergraduate course in tonal harmony. The author, Walter Piston, was Professor of Music at Harvard University and a Pulitzer Prize winner for distinguished musical composition. Norton & Company Fifth edition (March 17, 1987)Ī music theory classic, Harmony gives a thorough and highly readable treatment of common-practice harmony. Author(s): Walter Piston (author), Mark DeVoto (editor).

If you’re teaching yourself music theory, these books are your best bet.Īlfred’s Essentials of Music Theory: A Complete Self-Study Course for All Musicians The following beginner theory books assume no previous knowledge of music theory or reading music. Let’s dive in! What are the best music theory books for beginners?

That said, the best music theory books are the right mix of comprehensive and concise in the subject matter they intend to teach. Learning music theory isn’t a linear process, and as a result, music theory books vary widely in their scope and teaching style.
