How to Learn Music Theory for Beginners: 3 easy ways

If I had to guess, the most common objection I get when I encourage musicians to learn music theory is that it’s too hard or overwhelming, or that they don’t know where to start.

And I get it. At first blush, music theory can look overwhelming. However, the right resources and approach can make the pursuit more manageable.

First, Some tips for when you want to learn music theory:

Learn Music Theory for Singers

One of my most important, hill-I-will-die-on singing tips for beginners is this: learn music theory. As a vocal teacher (and singer who knows her music theory), I have heard every excuse in the book – “it’s too hard!” “[this singer] doesn’t know music theory!” “I just don’t want to…” “[this person] said I don’t need to learn music theory to be a singer!”

If you are a singer and there is any doubt in your mind about learning music theory, take the leap anyway. I know it can feel daunting, but basic music theory is really quite accessible for all ages and experience levels. It will help you advance as a singer in so many ways! Why not at least try?

Learn Piano Theory for Beginners

I recommend all my students, no matter their instrument, learn music theory on the piano. There are many, many reasons for this, but the primary is that music theory is laid out clearly and visually on the keyboard, as opposed to other instruments – this article does a great job of showing how.

That’s why I wrote my course, Theory for Singers, as a piano-based theory course. It is how I start all my singers on theory, and how I encourage all singers to start learning music theory.

How to learn Music Theory for beginners

So. How do you go about learning music theory when you’re just starting out? There are a few ways you can get started:

Ask your music teacher to help you learn music theory

I am a huge proponent of every musician having a private teacher, or at least a small-group coach. Individual instruction is especially important when it comes to technique, but it also can be invaluable when it comes to learning music theory. At least bringing your teacher in on whatever method you choose to learn music theory, or asking them to include it in your curriculum, will allow you to ask your questions and pursue full understanding.

I personally like to tailor my student’s music theory curriculum to their strengths. Having that one-on-one instruction lets me really help them understand music theory in ways that work for them!

All this to say, I highly recommend bringing your teacher in on your music theory learning process! And if you don’t have a music instructor, finding one who specializes in music theory might be a great way to start.

Learn Music Theory on your own

The good thing about beginner music theory is that there is a certain level of independent learning that can be done. Specific or more tailored instruction becomes more important as you advance and get into more composition, but the basics can often be learned remotely or independently.

Your most independent option would be by book. You can work through it at your own pace, and take the time you need to internalize the concepts. I’ve linked a few of my favorite below:

Pro tip: these music theory books and more are available with a Kindle Unlimited subscription!

Of course, learning solely from a book has it’s limits. Having a way to ask questions (and have them answered accurately) can be very beneficial and avoid misunderstanding.

Take an Online Course to learn music theory

After many years of taking private lessons, getting to know other musicians, and teaching my own students, I have had many conversations around the subject of music theory. How much do singers need to know? What’s the best way to learn it? How can students stay disciplined?

And I have seen, overwhelmingly, two problems:

1. Students feel overwhelmed by music theory in both subject matter and pace of learning
2. Students feel they can’t afford private instruction

Of course, if you opt for private instruction, problem #1 basically goes away – provided the teacher is good. However, cost is still a hurdle.

I think I have come up with a solution! I wrote an online course – Music Theory for Singers.

The course is a one-time-cost, keeping it affordable. I am available to answer questions, which helps with understanding. And there is no time limit – the student can take all the time they need to master the subject matter!

If this sounds like something that will work for you, I am offering a free trial for new students! Try the first lesson before committing to the full course. Take advantage before the offer goes away:

If you want to learn music theory, it doesn’t have to be too complicated or expensive.

Seriously – start small. Try out a book or an online course in beginning music theory, talk to your teacher about where to start. And of course, if you don’t have a teacher, my inbox is always open.