Understand Music Theory: Teach Yourself

by Margaret Richer

Understand Music Theory offers a practical approach which uses active learning to impart knowledge. Suitable for complete beginners and assuming no previous experience, each chapter includes diagrams, examples, clear explanations, helpful hints and self-tests before moving on, which help create a sense of achievement as you make your way through the book. With results that will get you enjoying your music even more, this is an invaluable guide to understanding music theory.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

203 pages, Paperback

First published June 28, 2002

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

This book worked incredibly well for me as someone who is 1) easily bored, 2) a classically taught musician with several years' experience, and 3) lacking in any training in music theory. I tried three or four different books, all featureless blocks of paper that I didn't really feel like reading, before coming upon this one. It was a welcome relief to see that each lesson here was short and concise, with just the basics of each concept and no extra fluff. The exercises and summarizing questions were helpful for review and retention. That being said, this book is only a very brief overview. Reading it is like dipping your toes in the water before learning how to swim. The next step is to actually study a textbook, but I liked that the beginning of my self-instruction began in a less intimidating space. For my purposes, I was glad that this book exists in the music-theory literature.

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like that the book was a quick read. I enjoyed the exercises in each chapter. I liked the quizzes at the end of each chapter. I liked the glossary at the end of the book. When I read my first book about music theory I had did not understand what I was reading about. I thought I could never understand music theory. It was not that the book was bad it was that I did had no clue about music. I think I have come a long way since the first book I read about music theory. Now I enjoy reading about music theory. I have a lot to learn about music theory though. I figure the more I learn the better composer I will be. Someday who know someone may enjoy one of my songs. I enjoyed this book a lot.

[Dominique · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good. Helpful.