At this point it is safe to say that we now know most of the mathematics behind the major scale. As we have seen, the C major scale (or key of C) has no sharps or flats. The G Major Scale (or key of G) has one sharp, F#. Logically the next major scale (or key) should have two sharps. Since it does, it is necessary for us to find out what that next key is and all the subsequent keys thereafter. In order to do so, we will use ... The Cycle of … [Read more...]
Basic Music Theory Lesson 2B: Minor Scale Construction
April 8, 2009 by Leave a Comment
The minor scale (also called Aeolian) is a major scale with its 3rd, 6th, and 7th degrees flattened. As we saw in lesson 2 (major scales part 1), the placement of tones and semi-tones is what gives each type of scale its individual sound. If we take the C Major scale and flatten the 3rd, 6th, and 7th degrees, we get the following placement of tones and semi-tones. If you were to start on any note and apply this order of tones and semi-tones ( T, ST, T, T, ST, T, T) you would end up playing … [Read more...]
Basic Music Theory Lesson 2: Major Scales Part 1
April 8, 2009 by Leave a Comment
MAJOR SCALE CONSTRUCTION The major scale (also called Ionian) is the building block from which all other scales and chords are derived. There are two rules which must be followed when building a major scale. 1. All major scales must consist of two tetrachords connected by a tone: This is the C major scale. 2. All major scales must follow an alphabetical order. This is the G major scale. Notice the F#. As you learned in lesson 1, F# … [Read more...]
Basic Music Theory Lesson 1: The Basics
April 8, 2009 by Leave a Comment
The following information must be understood before going on to the various subjects discussed in this study. Work at your own pace to memorize these next pieces of information. Semitone: (also called a half step) The distance between any note and the 1st note right after it on your instrument. Tone: (also called a whole tone or full step) The distance between any note and the 2nd note right after it on your instrument. Symbols: # Sharp When this … [Read more...]
Basic Music Theory Introduction
April 8, 2009 by Leave a Comment
For many, music theory is a very difficult concept. Because of this fact, there are many musicians who have avoided the subject entirely. This is unfortunate, as a basic understanding of theory is a very good tool for any musician to have. Please understand, I am not saying that theory is necessarily essential to good musicianship. However, like all other walks in life, the more one knows about the subject for which they have an interest, the better equipped they are to get the most out of … [Read more...]
