Music Theory for the Self-Taught Musician: Level 1: The Basics

It is never too late to learn music theory, even for self-taught musicians. This book is written for beginners and provides simple, day-to-day common sense explanations that will help you understand theory and improve your playing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2022
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

It is widely acknowledged that a significant number of musicians, spanning from amateur enthusiasts to renowned professionals, possess a predominantly self-taught approach to their craft. While some may choose to disregard music theory altogether, there comes a point for many where curiosity arises, prompting them to explore its practical applications and potential value. However, a common misconception persists among these musicians, suggesting that it is too late to embark on a theoretical journey, that they should have begun their education earlier, and that a fundamental prerequisite is the ability to read music. Fortunately, this notion is entirely false.

Many self-taught musicians will inevitably resort to books in their pursuit of knowledge, only to discover that many of these resources are tailored for specialists and individuals with a proficient grasp of musical notation. They delve into discussions of scales, chord construction, and staff notation, yet for those who struggle to identify individual notes or comprehend their placement on a staff, the frustration only intensifies. It may seem like a daunting task, with the perception that a late start in learning theory hinders one's ability to become a skilled musician and subsequently comprehend the theory.

However, I assure you that this is not the case. It is never too late to embark on a journey of theoretical exploration and understanding. I, too, have experienced the frustration of grappling with complex concepts in music theory, which is why I wrote this book. Originally crafted with my former self in mind, who yearned for a clear, coherent, and accessible method of learning theory without the burden of reading notes, this book serves as a resource I wish I had had during my earlier years of musical education.

I firmly believe that there are many others who share this same sentiment, and my primary objective is to offer assistance and clarity to those in need. This book is grounded in straightforward, everyday logic, and I am confident that anyone who possesses a basic knowledge of the alphabet and can count to seven will possess the necessary foundation to comprehend theory. What may initially appear challenging may actually prove surprisingly easy, and I can confidently assure you that it will have a profound impact on your playing abilities and your deep appreciation for music.

Weight: 538g
Dimension: 234 x 190 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493056118