Music theory lessons will benefit you as a musician, regardless of which instrument or style of music you play. I give classical and popular music theory lessons to pupils who play any instrument.
I’ve made a deep study popular, classical and jazz music for over 20 years in order to glean the essential principles of music common to all styles. It’s the knowledge of the underlying structure of music that I aim to pass on to my students, cutting through the clutter and confusion of notation and theory texts.
An important part of theoretical knowledge is developing a strong “ear” for music, something which can be established through ear training exercises, guided listening of music and through the “Royal Road” of transcribing the music of the greats. Transcribing also has the benefit of improving your sight=reading by forcing you to write what you hear.
Theory lessons can be undertaken with me as a separate subject of study, or as part of a course of instrumental lessons. I usually teach my instrumental students basic theory relevant to their playing styles but by pursuing theory lessons you can develop a deep core of knowledge and the analytical tools to deepen your understanding of music for years to come.
Topics covered in my music theory lessons
- Melody & harmony
- Keys, scales & chords
- Reading music
- Graded Exams
Ukulele for guitarists – learn to transpose!
If you can play the guitar already, making the transition to the ukulele is simple. You already know all of the chord and scale shapes, but will need to think about them in a different way.
The skill that you will need is to be able to transpose at sight. I can teach you the formula which you need to learn to be able to do this.
To play a G chord on the ukulele, you play a guitar ‘D shape’. Can you figure out the rest?
Music Theory Exams
Are you sitting your RGT, Trinity Guildhall or Associated Board Music Theory Exam? I am familiar with each syllabus, and can teach you what you need to know in my theory lessons.
Even if you do not wish to sit the exam, the above syllabi provide excellent structure for the study of music theory. I recommend that instrumental pupils study music theory to grade five at least.
General music theory lessons
Understanding keys, scales, arpeggios, modes, extended chords, harmony etc will help you enormously with your improvisation, soloing and songwriting.
Perhaps you understand a lot already but do not know the ‘proper names’ for things? I can help you.
Music reading lessons
I can teach you how to read and write music or help you to improve your current sight-reading ability.
Music theory lessons shopping list
- Suitable Theory Texts
- A pencil and eraser
- You may also need to download and print some Free Manuscript Paper
- A metronome or suitable smartphone app: Android & IPhone
See my Resources Page for further advice.
Music theory for songwriters
Need an objective opinion on your songs? I can help you with chord progressions, structure, arrangements, lyrics etc.
Aural exams & transcribing
I can also help with the aural part of your exam, or with general ear training and transcription skills.