Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 40 votes)
5 stars
14(35%)
4 stars
9(23%)
3 stars
17(43%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
40 reviews
July 15,2025
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This is quite a useful book. It has enough depth to clearly explain various musical elements such as chord progressions, turnarounds, chord substitutions, and counterpoint. It provides a comprehensive understanding of these concepts, which is essential for any musician or music enthusiast.


Now, I am all set to put what I have learned into practice. I will focus on practicing the techniques described in the book. Additionally, I will make use of the CD that comes with the book for ear training. This will help me to better recognize intervals, chords, and rhythms. By doing so, I hope to improve my musical skills and enhance my overall musical experience.


I believe that with consistent practice and the help of this useful book and its accompanying CD, I will be able to make significant progress in my musical journey.

July 15,2025
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An easy-to-read book about music theory is presented here. It offers a wonderful overview of various aspects such as scales, modes, chords, and progressions. Additionally, it delves into some more arcane elements that one might not even have known or suspected to exist. This book serves as an excellent introduction to the world of music theory. It simplifies complex concepts and makes them accessible to readers. Whether you are a beginner or someone with a basic understanding of music, this book can provide valuable insights. It helps you build a solid foundation and gain a better understanding of the fundamental principles of music theory. Overall, it is a great resource for anyone interested in exploring the fascinating world of music theory.

July 15,2025
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Well-informed about music theory with plenty of exercises,

is a crucial aspect for any aspiring musician. Having a deep understanding of music theory allows one to analyze and appreciate music on a whole new level. It provides the foundation for creating and performing music with confidence and skill.

Exercises play an essential role in solidifying this knowledge. They help musicians practice and apply the concepts they have learned, improving their technical abilities and musicality. Whether it's practicing scales, chords, or rhythm patterns, exercises are the key to mastering music theory.

Moreover, being well-informed about music theory enables musicians to communicate effectively with others in the music industry. They can understand and interpret musical notation, collaborate with other musicians, and contribute to the creative process. In conclusion, having a good grasp of music theory and plenty of exercises is essential for anyone who wants to pursue a career in music or simply enjoy making music as a hobby.
July 15,2025
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This is a very helpful book indeed.

It contains a wealth of valuable information and practical advice that can be applied in various aspects of life.

The author has presented the content in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand and follow.

I have found myself referring back to this book on numerous occasions, as it provides solutions and insights that I have not been able to find elsewhere.

It has become an essential part of my personal library and I will continue to keep it close at hand for future reference.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a useful and informative resource.
July 15,2025
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If you're seeking to acquire knowledge about music theory and have no prior experiences in this field, then this particular book is precisely what you need.

It is specifically designed with the beginner in mind. However, it's important to note that if you already possess a certain level of understanding, such as knowledge of chord progressions and arpeggios, this book may not offer you much in terms of new learning.

It focuses on laying the foundation for those who are completely new to music theory, covering the basic concepts and principles in a simple and accessible manner.

Whether you're interested in playing an instrument or simply want to have a better understanding of how music works, this book can serve as a great starting point.
July 15,2025
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The most practical guide for beginner composers that I have ever come across is truly remarkable. It offers a wealth of valuable information and insights that are essential for those just starting out in the field of composition.


This book has had a profound impact on my life. It has opened my eyes to the various techniques and approaches that can be used to create beautiful and engaging music. The clear and concise explanations, along with the numerous examples and exercises, make it easy for beginners to understand and apply the concepts.


Whether you are interested in writing classical music, film scores, or contemporary compositions, this guide has something for everyone. It provides step-by-step instructions on how to develop melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and arrangements, as well as tips on how to overcome common challenges and find your own unique musical voice.


In conclusion, I highly recommend this book to any beginner composer who is looking to improve their skills and take their music to the next level. It is truly a game-changer and will无疑 have a significant impact on your musical journey.

July 15,2025
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COMMENTS: These remarks are about the text of the Second Edition PAPERBACK that I read from beginning to end. However, they don't pertain to the accompanying Audio CD for Ear Training as I didn't listen to it at all.


STRONG SUGGESTION: It would be beneficial to have a piano or keyboard available while reading the text to enhance understanding.


GENERAL: Are you someone who has had at least some prior musical instrument playing experience or basic music education? Are you proficient in self-study? Do the topics in the contents below pique your interest? Do you have some knowledge of music but have gaps? Perhaps this book is for you.


I had in-home piano lessons for 4-5 years when I was much younger. In hindsight, I'm extremely grateful that my teacher, who moonlighted playing jazz and popular music, taught me all about chords in the last couple of years of teaching. Just before his "nervous breakdown" ended my piano lessons (permanently for me, as it turned out), I had many years to enjoy playing popular music with minimal notation, such as a melody line with a few accompanying chords.


Hah! I wasn't even sure what I didn't know. It turns out there is a vast amount of information, and I'm delighted to have come across this information-rich guide to continue where my education left off.


I took a lot of notes to aid my attention and memory. I found most sections relatively easy to follow, and I loved having end-of-chapter questions to answer. However, I've also been playing and improvising for quite some time and can't adopt the mindset of someone encountering this for the first time. Therefore, I suggest looking at the content topics below to see if it merits your further interest.


Part 1 Tones
1 Pitches and Clefs
2 Intervals
3 Scales
4 Major and Minor Keys


Part 2 Rhythms
5 Note Values and Basic Notation
6 Time Signatures
7 Tempo, Dynamics, and Navigation


Part 3 Tunes
8 Melodies
9 Chords
10 Chord Progressions
11 Phrases and Form


Part 4 Accompanying
12 Transcribing What You Hear
13 Accompanying Melodies
14 Transposing to Other Keys


Part 5 Embellishing
15 Harmony and Counterpoint
16 Chord Substitutions and Turnarounds
17 Special Notation


Part 6 Arranging
18 Composing and Arranging for Voices and Instruments
19 Lead Sheets and Scores
20 Performing Your Music


Appendices
A Music Glossary
B Chord Reference
C Answers to Chapter Exercises


FINALLY: The web link provided at the end of the book to find the corrections didn't work for me. I believe the book may no longer be available for sale (new) in the second edition paperback version.
July 15,2025
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This book offered a rather decent overview of music theory.

It was quite helpful in jogging my memory about what I already knew and also highlighting what I didn't know.

The author did a good job of presenting the fundamental concepts in a clear and understandable manner.

Whether you are a beginner looking to get a basic understanding of music theory or an experienced musician wanting to refresh your knowledge, this book can be a valuable resource.

It covers a wide range of topics, including scales, chords, intervals, and rhythm.

The examples and illustrations provided throughout the book make it easier to grasp the more complex ideas.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning or improving their understanding of music theory.
July 15,2025
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Great stuff! Whether you are learning it for the first time or need a refresher, this is truly valuable.

When you encounter new knowledge, it can be both exciting and challenging. The process of learning something for the very first time allows you to expand your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

On the other hand, if you are in need of a refresher, it gives you the opportunity to reinforce what you have already learned and fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

Either way, this great stuff has the potential to enhance your learning experience and help you grow. So, embrace it, explore it, and make the most of this wonderful opportunity to learn and improve.

July 15,2025
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**Title: A Quick Look Up**

In our fast-paced lives, we often find ourselves in need of a quick look up. Whether it's to find the meaning of a word, the answer to a burning question, or information about a particular topic, the ability to quickly access knowledge has become essential.

Thanks to the internet, we now have a wealth of information at our fingertips. With just a few clicks, we can search through countless websites and databases to find the answers we seek.

However, it's important to remember that not all information on the internet is accurate or reliable. We need to be critical thinkers and carefully evaluate the sources we use.

A quick look up can be a useful tool, but it's also important to take the time to understand and verify the information we find. By doing so, we can ensure that we are making informed decisions and expanding our knowledge in a meaningful way.
July 15,2025
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Music theory is a vast and important subject that encompasses many aspects of music.

It includes the study of musical notation, scales, chords, harmony, rhythm, and form.

A comprehensive review of music theory should present these concepts in a clear and understandable format, so that students can easily grasp and apply them.

One way to achieve this is through the use of diagrams, examples, and exercises.

For example, a diagram of a musical scale can help students visualize the relationships between the notes, while examples of chords and their progressions can illustrate how harmony works.

Exercises such as identifying chords and rhythms in a piece of music can also help students develop their skills and understanding.

In addition, a good review of music theory should also cover the history and evolution of musical concepts, as well as their cultural and social context.

This can provide students with a deeper appreciation and understanding of the role that music plays in our lives.

Overall, a comprehensive review of music theory in a clear, understandable format is essential for any student who wishes to study music or improve their musical skills.
July 15,2025
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This is a decent book for beginners.

It offers a good starting point for those who are new to the subject.

However, it is clearly more geared toward pianists.

The content and examples seem to be tailored specifically for piano players.

If you have prior knowledge of music theory, you might be disappointed.

The book may not provide enough depth or advanced information for you.

It might cover the basics in a way that is too elementary for those with existing musical knowledge.

Overall, it can be a useful resource for beginners, especially pianists, but it may not meet the expectations of those who already have a solid understanding of music theory.

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