REQ: Music Theory and Composition: A Practical Approach (book)
Music Theory and Composition: A Practical Approach presents a pragmatic, accessible approach to music theory through an emphasis on melody and counterpoint. This focus explains the “why” of musical construction more clearly than the traditional approach of beginning with chords. By starting with a single melodic line and gradually adding voices in counterpoint, the book drills part-writing while simultaneously explaining functionality, first with scale degrees and then with harmony. The text has students learn musical techniques and progressively build on their functions and importance to create their own compositions.
With short, digestible chapters, Music Theory and Composition clearly presents otherwise complicated ideas not as strict rules, but as artistic ideals, encouraging the interactive creation of new compositions as a tool for learning.
The textbook is versatile and easily customizable, suiting
Different skill levels with species counterpoint providing a framework for the beginner while providing an interesting challenge for more experienced students
Different curricular schedules with complete exercises in two, three, and four voices, allowing for an optional skip from two voices to four
Different pedagogical approaches with species exercises encouraging students to consider harmonic choices and figured bass ensuring functional progressions.
With short, digestible chapters, Music Theory and Composition clearly presents otherwise complicated ideas not as strict rules, but as artistic ideals, encouraging the interactive creation of new compositions as a tool for learning.
The textbook is versatile and easily customizable, suiting
Different skill levels with species counterpoint providing a framework for the beginner while providing an interesting challenge for more experienced students
Different curricular schedules with complete exercises in two, three, and four voices, allowing for an optional skip from two voices to four
Different pedagogical approaches with species exercises encouraging students to consider harmonic choices and figured bass ensuring functional progressions.