Music Theory Essentials: The Basics of Reading and Understanding Music
This 8-week virtual music theory course is designed for beginners seeking to build a solid foundation in music theory. Over the course of two months, students will explore essential musical concepts in a structured, interactive setting.
Lynlie Simpson
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(14)
What's included
8 live meetings
4 in-class hoursProjects
1 hour per week. For our last class, learners will be assigned a final project where they will either analyze or compose a short piece and present their findings to the class.Assessment
1 after class completionClass Experience
This class will be mostly lecture based and will use Google Slides to present information. Videos will be referenced from YouTube, and we will use Musictheory.net to practice our theory skills. My teaching style is student-centered and interactive, asking questions and encouraging discussion frequently. I use several visual and auditory aids to present information in different ways. Students will receive constructive feedback on their assignments and final project. For information about weekly topics, please check out the Syllabus.
Learning Goals
Students will learn the fundamentals of music theory, including how to read music, build basic chords, and identify intervals through ear training.
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Music Theory
1. Why is music theory important?
2. Staff, treble clef, bass clef
3. Note names, lines and spaces
4. Note values (whole, half, quarter, eighth)
5. Assignment 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Rhythm and Meter
1. What is rhythm?
2. Note and rest values (whole, half, quarter, eighth)
3. Time signatures
4. Musical examples
5. Assignment 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Scales and Keys
1. Major scales
2. Minor scales
3. Key signatures
4. Circle of fifths
5. Assignment 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Intervals and Ear Training
1. What is an interval?
2. Recognizing intervals on the staff
3. Ear training with basic intervals
4. Musical examples
5. Assignment 30 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
This class starts at the very beginning. If you have no previous musical experience, you are welcome here! If you are already a musician and want to ensure that your fundamentals are solid, enroll now!
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined January, 2022
5.0
14reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Music from University of Missouri-Kansas City
Bachelor's Degree in Music from Arkansas State University
My name is Lynlie Simpson, and I am a music educator. I have a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Music in flute performance. I love all kinds of music, and I am a teacher at heart! I truly believe that music is for all ages and abilities. I joined Outschool because I love being a virtual teacher. Teaching online allows us to connect across any distance. This gives opportunity to students who may not have music classes in their area. If I'm not teaching or playing flute...you can find me reading a good book or hanging out with my dog, Stanley!Reviews
Live Group Course
$16
weekly or $125 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
30 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
1-6 learners per class
