Best Music Theory Books

Learn music theory with ease thanks to Music Theory For Dummies. This book covers the basics of music theory in a way that is approachable and easy to understand, with concepts broken down into manageable chunks. Ideal for college-level Music Theory courses or anyone looking to brush up on their musical knowledge.

Discover the mysteries of music theory with this practical book and CD package designed for guitarists of all levels. Through plain and simple terms and diagrams, author and veteran guitarist Tom Kolb provides a wealth of valuable knowledge on scales, modes, chords, ear training and more. With 94 tracks of music examples included on the accompanying CD, this book is the perfect resource for any guitarist looking to improve their understanding of music theory.

Discover the definitive guide to jazz theory in this acclaimed book! With over 500 pages of easy-to-understand content, learn chord construction, II-V-I progressions, scale theory, chord/scale relationships, the blues, reharmonization, and more. Used as a textbook in universities worldwide and endorsed by legendary musicians, this book is a must-read for any jazz enthusiast.

Improve your music skills with this all-in-one theory course! With 75 concise lessons, this book is perfect for pianists, guitarists, instrumentalists, vocalists, songwriters, arrangers, and composers. The course includes exercises to help you practice music reading and writing, ear training CDs to develop your musical ear, and a review to test your knowledge after each unit. Plus, all answers are included in the back of the book for easy reference. Start mastering the essentials of music today!

Learn music theory in a unique, practical, and straightforward way with this updated edition. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced musician, this book covers everything you need to know to become an expert in music theory. With audio examples to help you understand concepts, you'll learn about notes, intervals, scales, chords, rhythm, harmony, composition, and more. Easy to follow and digest, this comprehensive guide is a skill and tool you'll keep forever to create beautiful music.

Learn how music works with The Musician's Guide to Theory and Analysis. This innovative guide uses a model approach to show how music theory relates directly to practice and performance. With a focus on real music literature that students know and play, it includes all topics essential to first- and second-year theory for music majors, from fundamentals to post-tonal theory and analysis. Get hands-on tools for understanding and making music.

Unlock the secrets of guitar theory in a simple, musical way with a practical guide designed for guitarists. Discover creative approaches to guitar soloing and songwriting by understanding guitar scales, modes, and arpeggios. With over 200 exercises and examples, you'll master important concepts in modern guitar playing and internalize them for lasting improvement. Plus, professional backing tracks and bonus materials make this guide the ultimate tool for taking your guitar skills to the next level.

Learn how to read music notation quickly and easily with this step-by-step system. With over 150 music examples, 100 written exercises, 10 listening challenges, and expert tips, you'll understand music theory fundamentals and the crucial details of music notation. Compose your own music or write your own songs and build a strong foundation for more advanced music studies. With this in-depth, easy-to-follow method, your music theory questions are answered in full. Join hundreds of beginner students who have successfully mastered musical notation and fundamental music theory – it's your turn now!

Expand your knowledge of music theory with this contemporary and easy-to-understand guide! Perfectly sized for on-the-go learning, this pocket-sized book covers everything from intervals and rhythms to chord inversions and modulation. Written for musicians of all levels, this step-by-step guide utilizes thorough analysis to give you a deep understanding of harmony and theory. With information straight from the Harmony & Theory course at Musicians Institute, this book has everything you need to take your musical abilities to the next level.

Improve your understanding of music theory and analysis with this comprehensive workbook. Featuring 4-5 double-sided worksheets per chapter, you'll have plenty of exercises to hone your skills. From drill-and-practice to composition and analysis, this workbook is filled with real-music examples to help you improve.