Music Theory
Thu, 10/31/2019 - 11:54
Hi, Dave. I'm on LOA 3. I have started Accompaniment Playing Study 3, and am having a real hard time with what might be called music theory, but involves root notes, chords, positions and things like that. When you lecture I can follow you but I cannot follow through on, or build on, what I have learned. So, here is my question: is there a source I can use to learn about music theory, or the basics, which I can apply to my harmonica studies? Thanks, David.
Hello David. Music theory takes time, and a LOT of different perspectives on the same subject to first make sense, and then eventually use. To augment your studies, spend time on the Music Theory studies. Music Theory Study 3 covers chord definitions, with Studies 4 onward showing how it's used. Start with Study 1 of course (which you already have, since you're doing LOA).
I recommend you skim (watch videos and go through study material) through all the music theory lessons. After doing this, go back and study very intently from 1 onwards. After you're done, review it again, from the beginning. Its the multiple-pass process that will be very helpful. You won't get all of it (or even half of it), the first run. The Improvising Studies also help. These three studies (Accompaniment, Music Theory, and Improvising) are the primary studies that will lead you to understanding, and using, the material.