Beginner Music Theory Aspiring College Music Majors Need to Know

In my many years of teaching in elementary, high school, and in college, I found it best to explain to students they must learn — even master — music theory in three ways: in your head, on music manuscript paper, and on a melodic chordal instrument. Only then can you feel comfortable and say you really know and understand the areas of basic music theory.

5 Experts Weigh In: What is Good Music Practicing?

A woman is seated at a drum set practicing.
Practice. It’s the quintessential labor of any artist who wishes to hone their skills and advance their abilities, but in my decades of experience counseling music students, I’ve found almost everyone struggles at some point to develop the routine that works best for them. That’s because there isn’t only one way to practice.