Will learning music theory actually improve my music?

Answer 1

I like to frame this question within the realm of language. When we have something to say, there are multiple words we can choose from to phrase it. In music, theory is the dictionary of words we have to choose from. When you master music theory, you can express yourself musically without difficulty, like a poet does with words. A real life example would be simply knowing when to use a non-diatonic chord to emphasize a lyric.

Answer 2

Ultimately, yes. Learning music theory help one understand the fundamentals of music so they can apply what they learn to the music they are studying, reading, and learning. For instance, when you are learning to play a piano piece, there are signs and symbols in the music to observe, understand and implement through playing what is indicated on the page. Starting with the key signature, let's say in two sharps--if the player understands to go up one half step from the last sharp written to determine the key, they will know that the piece of music is either in the key of D or the relative B minor. If the first chord is F#-A-D they will know through studying theory that the chord is a root chord of the key of D major, in first position. Those are just 2 examples of how knowledge of theory benefits the skills of the player. I like to invent little games to learn theory to make learning basic theory fundamentals fun AND educational as well as improve the playing skills of the student. If you study with me, you will be introduced to those games and improve your skills! I teach beginning-advanced lessons in piano, guitar, mandolin, violin, and double bass, as well as theory and composition. Deborah