Choosing the best music theory class requires checking what is going to be covered throughout the course of study and whether the teacher has relevant experience or qualifications needed to teach the classes. The most important things to look for in a music theory class if you are a beginner is whether the basic aspects of reading music are going to be covered. For longer courses of study or more advanced classes, it is important to ensure that more advanced concepts, such as modes, triad inversions, and seventh chords, are going to be discussed.
Music theory refers to many different aspects of music, but basically provides the student with an understanding of how music is composed, which notes work well together, and how to notate and read music accurately. This includes understanding things such as scales, which are runs of notes that produce a certain effect, and the different types of notes. Music theory aims to break music down so much that it can be composed away from the instrument. This not only requires an understanding of how to compose chord progressions, but also how to write the music down so it can be played perfectly by somebody who has never even heard it before.
When choosing a music theory class, it is important to look at the qualifications and experience of the teacher. Musicology is a subject that can be studied at the degree level, and even at a masters or doctorate level. Any teacher with a qualification in music composition or music theory will be well suited for teaching a music theory class. Although qualifications are a sure indication that the teacher is competent, experience can also be used to assess the teacher’s skills. A teacher should ideally have experience as a musician or a composer, and any previous teaching experience is a bonus.
The specific topics that are going to be covered as part of the music theory class are also important. For example, a good music theory class will always include information on scales, keys, time signatures, note types, triads and chords. In addition, a good course should address intervals, common chord progressions and inversions. For musicians looking to learn theory to enhance their comprehension of written music, courses including descriptions of common expressions are a good choice.
