Description
Music Theory Course Description
This music theory course is designed for late middle school and high school students and covers foundational music theory concepts through early intermediate (Level 2) theory. It is ideal for students who want to better understand how music works, whether they play an instrument, sing, or simply have an interest in music.
Fall Semester
Music Theory I introduces students to the building blocks of music. Topics include rhythm, note reading on the staff, scales, intervals, chords and how they are formed, dynamics, articulation, and simple lead sheets. Students will also explore basic composition concepts, using what they learn to create short musical ideas. Throughout the course, students will gain insight into music history and be introduced to important classical composers. Access to a keyboard (piano or digital keyboard) is required for this class.
Spring Semester
Music Theory II is a continuation of Music Theory I and is intended for students who have completed the first course or who already have at least one year of solid music theory experience. This course builds on foundational concepts and deepens students’ understanding of musical structure, analysis, and application across a variety of musical styles.
Both courses are open to instrumentalists, vocalists, and students with a general interest in music, and are designed to strengthen musical understanding, confidence, and creativity.
I wanted to thank you also for teaching this class. My child didn’t just love it: it has changed his life. He’s always had musical interest and ability, and I’m fairly musical myself, but I never took a theory class and didn’t have the slightest idea what to do besides make sure he learned to play the piano. But then I saw this class being offered [formerely at Big River], and signed him up for it (against his wishes, I might add!!!), and he ended up LOVING the first semester and asking to sign up for the second one. Yay!!! To see him over Christmas break (and again now that school is out and he has more time) sitting down to compose on Noteflight, just for the fun of it, all on his own, is just wonderful!!!
Thank you for sharing your love of music and your gift for music by teaching this class. I’ve been wanting to thank you for a long time. I am so grateful for all you’ve done for him. Thank you!
Grade Levels
- 9th – 12th grade
Prerequisites
- Music Theory II requires either attendance in Music Theory I or at least one year of music theory previously. A prerequisite test may be required to determine previous knowledge.
Curriculum
- Music Theory I: Alfred’s (Complete) Essentials of Music Theory
- Music Theory II: Alfred’s (Complete) Essentials of Music Theory, Advanced Theory (TBD)
Course Outline
- Note reading on the grand staff
- Rhythms
- Articulation
- Dynamics
- Scales, Chords
- Lead sheets
- Improvisation
- Music Theory II: includes harmonization and
Estimated Workload
- Dependent upon student reading/comprehension. Please contact me if you have questions.
