What Techniques Do You Utilize to Understand Music Theory?

Question

There are many techniques to help us better understand the methods of music theory. Do you prefer the Suzuki Method? Can you reach a better understanding of conceptual themes in music theory by instrument application? Do you know and understand your basic learning style?

Answer 1

I've always approached music theory by ear! By relying on the core human sense with the most direct relation to the art itself (sound), I've been able to develop an unconscious education that helps to inform my conscious education. To be more clear, the ear-training method can provide the brain with a "correct" answer to a theory problem before the conscious (trained) brain can provide evidence to that point. Training the ear alongside the body -- (the fingers, the breath) can develop a connection between the two that exists as a necessary support for the higher-level headier theory that can be approached in higher education. I know I wouldn't have been able to wrap my head around those subjects without a sensory base.

Answer 2

I've always said music is just math. I came from a math background and I believe if someone can count to 12 then someone can understand music. If you think about analyzing a piece of music like a word problem it seems to come easier to me. Also building chords is nothing but formulas. The way voice leading works is nothing but visual math. When something goes down a third the other voice has to go down a different amount. While parallel motion is not always bad I try and avoid it all together. Unless you have a good reason to break to rules try and use them to the best of you ability. Creativity often happens when you're bound by some rules.

Answer 3

One of the most important elements of mastering music theory for me was always mastering intervals. If you an sing a minor 6th up or down (or any other challenging intervals) that is a key element of being a good musician. Messing about on the piano over and over to avoid parallelisms and to see which chords do and do not go together and to try to be sure voices/note pattens blend well but moving in opposite directions are good ideas also. I also like to just look at notes and try to sing them with playing them on the piano, that helps one improve their ear tremendously.

Answer 4

While receiving a general music theory education in high school it was not until my collegiate work that I was challenged with advanced music theory. My best understanding always came through instrument application, in addition to repetition and ear training. PM me to learn more about the various ways we understand and apply music theory!