Is a Music Theory Class Worth It?
Whether a Music Theory class is worth it depends on your goals and interests in music. This article explores the benefits of taking a Music Theory class, considerations to keep in mind, and concludes with advice on when such a class might be most beneficial.
Benefits of Taking Music Theory
Understanding Music Structure
Music theory provides essential insights into the building blocks of music, including scales, chords, harmony, and form. This knowledge can enhance your ability to analyze and appreciate music on a deeper level. By understanding these fundamental elements, you can better comprehend the intricacies of a piece and its underlying structure.
Improved Composition Skills
If you're interested in writing your own music, understanding theory can help you create more sophisticated compositions. A solid grasp of music theory will enable you to explore various compositional techniques, experiment with different chord progressions, and craft melodies that are both harmonious and compelling.
Better Performance
Musicians who understand theory often find it easier to read sheet music, improvise, and communicate with other musicians. This ability to read and interpret music quickly and accurately can elevate your performance, making you a more versatile and adaptable musician.
Enhanced Listening Skills
You'll develop a more critical ear, allowing you to identify complex elements in music that you might have overlooked in the past. This heightened awareness can enhance your overall musical experience and help you appreciate the nuances in both familiar and new compositions.
Foundation for Advanced Study
If you plan to study music at a higher level, a solid grounding in theory is often essential. Whether you're pursuing a degree in music or simply looking to deepen your understanding of the craft, a strong foundation in music theory will serve you well in your future endeavors.
Considerations
Personal Goals
If you're primarily a hobbyist or just enjoy music casually, you might find that self-study or informal learning is sufficient. Setting clear goals and assessing your current level of interest and dedication can help you decide whether enrolling in a formal class is necessary.
Learning Style
Some people thrive in structured environments, while others prefer hands-on experience. Consider what works best for you. A traditional classroom setting might be ideal for some, while others might prefer online courses or group workshops where they can learn through interactive sessions and practice.
Cost and Time
Evaluate whether the investment of time and money aligns with your personal or professional goals. If funding is a concern, look for free resources or affordable options. Many universities and music schools offer introductory courses that are either free or at a reduced cost. Additionally, consider the potential return on investment. Improved skills and knowledge can open up new opportunities in your music career or hobby.
Worth the Money?
If you truly want to make music, learning music theory is extremely valuable. It’s an essential tool, not just a game. The study of grammar and sentence structure can be similarly invaluable, depending on your aspirations and goals.
Historically, in times like Mozart’s, where formal theories were not yet fully developed, musicians managed to create and perform without in-depth theoretical knowledge. However, as our understanding of music theory grew over several centuries, the wisdom of studying it became increasingly evident.
The right question to ask is “How much music theory is worth it for what I want to do.” If you’re a performer, you might not need extensive theoretical knowledge—simply enough to understand your instrument or voice and its relationship to the music you want to perform. Some performers, like Pavarotti, managed to succeed with minimal theoretical background, while others, like Furtw?ngler, claimed to depend heavily on theory and Schenkerian analysis, though the latter may have been more of a self-administered placebo.
If you’re a composer, you likely need a bit more theoretical understanding, though not necessarily extensive. A master like Bach had little interest in theory despite his works being full of complex structures. This example underscores the flexibility and adaptability of different musicians and composers.
Un-nuanced claims that you MUST have theory or that it’s just a waste of time are entirely nonsense. The value of music theory lies in its relevance to your specific goals and aspirations. Take the time to assess your current level and desired outcomes before making a decision.