Why You Should Know Music Theory

Many musicians are naturally gifted and can pick up an instrument and play it without formal training. While there is value in instinct and natural talent, it is still essential for a true musician to understand the basics of music theory. If you’re wondering why you should learn music theory, consider the following reasons.

The most obvious reason to learn music theory is that the rules of theory form the foundation for creating music. Just as one wouldn’t attempt to write a novel without knowing the alphabet, it is necessary to grasp the fundamental elements of musical composition to truly understand the intricacies of creating a piece of music. While playing by ear is fine, understanding the basic components of musical structure is crucial.

Music theory is particularly important for musicians who plan on playing in a band, as they need to speak the language of their craft. Collaborative music-making can be frustrating if the collaborators lack a common vocabulary to articulate their ideas. Requesting a song to be shifted up by one half step is more precise and likely to achieve the desired results than suggesting it should be slightly higher.

Another significant reason for learning music theory is the ability to document original music. It is wonderful to be able to pick up an instrument and play a fantastic original piece, but what if the musician can’t remember how it goes the next time? Knowledge of music theory provides the tools to write out sheet music How To Read Piano Piece Music Fast - Learning to play the piano and read sheet music doesn't have to be intimidating. You don't need an exceptionally high IQ for this; all you need is perseverance and consistent practice, along with an easy-to-read piano sheet. By following some guidelines, learning can become easier. Here are some tips to help you as you gradually… for original compositions.

While it is true that some of the world’s greatest artists, such as Frank Sinatra, couldn’t read music and had no knowledge of music theory, they were exceptions rather than the norm. If you’re wondering why you should understand music theory, consider how challenging it is to express your musical inspirations without the proper vocabulary. We don’t try to run before we learn to walk, and nobody should attempt to compose a song before they learn the fundamentals of music notation.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME