Music Theory Comprehensive: Part 1 - How To Read Music from Udemy

This course has been independently reviewed by a panel of experts and has received a stellar 5-star rating.

100% Answer Rate. Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor.

Welcome to the

This is a class designed for the average person who is ready to dive into music. Whether you are a beginning musician, an active musician, or an aspiring musician - this class is perfect for you.

For years I've been teaching Music Theory in the college classroom. These classes I'm making for Udemy use the same syllabus I've used in my college classes for years, at a fraction of the cost. I believe anyone can learn Music Theory - and cost shouldn't be a barrier.

My approach to music theory is to minimize memorization. Most of these concepts you can learn by just understanding why chords behave in certain ways. Once you understand those concepts, you can find any scale, key, or chord that exists. Even invent your own. If you've tried to learn music theory before, or if you are just starting out - this series of courses is the perfect fit.

Dr. Allen is a professional musician, top-rated Udemy instructor, and university professor. In 2017 the Star Tribune featured him as a "Mover and a Shaker," and he is recognized by the Grammy Foundation for his music education classes.

Throughout this class, If you get stuck, you can review the videos or post a question, and I'll back to it as fast as possible.

This class is Part 1: How To Read Music. In it, we will work through all the elements of notated music, and how it all works.

In this class, we will cover:

My approach to Music Theory
Tools you will need to learn Music Theory quickly and efficiently
Music software: Notation programs
The elements of the Score
Pitch Names
Pitch Classes
Octaves
The White Keys
The Black Keys (not the band. )
Half-Steps and Whole-Steps
Clefs
Intervals
Naming Octaves
Identifying Notes on the Staff
Identifying Notes on the Keyboard
Beat and Beat Divisions
Tempo
Downbeats and Upbeats
Dotted Rhythms
Time Signatures
Ties
Accidentals
Form in Music Notation
...and much, much more.

And of course, once you sign up for Part 1 - Reading Music & The Symbols of Music Notation, you automatically get huge discounts on all the upcoming parts of this class.

You will not have another opportunity to learn Music Theory in a more comprehensive way than this.

All the tools you need to successfully learn Music Theory is included in this course and the entire course is based on real-life experiences - not just academic theory.

Please click the "Take This Course" button so you can launch your music career today.

Test Prep:

This course is perfect for prep for the Praxis II Test (ETS Praxis Music), The ABRSM Music Theory Exam (up to Grade 8), AP Music Theory Exam, College Placement Exams (Music Theory), and other common secondary and post-secondary placement exams.

I guarantee that this course is the most thorough music theory course available ANYWHERE on the market - or your money back (30-day money-back guarantee)

Closed captions have been added to all lessons in this course.

Praise for Courses by Jason Allen:

⇢ "It seems like every little detail is being covered in an extremely simple fashion. The learning process becomes relaxed and allows complex concepts to get absorbed easily. My only regret is not taking this course earlier." - M. Shah

⇢ "Great for everyone without any knowledge so far. I bought all three parts... It's the best investment in leveling up my skills so far.." - Z. Palce

⇢ "Excellent explanations. No more or less than what is needed." - A. Tóth

⇢ "VERY COOL. I've waited for years to see a good video course, now I don't have to wait anymore. Thank You. " - Jeffrey Koury

⇢ "I am learning LOTS. And I really like having the worksheets. " - A. Deichsel

⇢ "The basics explained very clearly - loads of really useful tips. " - J. Pook

⇢ "Jason is really quick and great with questions, always a great resource for an online class. " M. Smith

Students who register for this course will receive ongoing exclusive content and discounts for all future classes in the series.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Read music using proven techniques
Understand all the symbols (not only the notes) of a music score
Read, play, and count rhythms accurately
Chords on the guitar
Augmented triads
Diminished triads
Finding fifths by finding thirds
The thirds inside of a chord
Finding chords by formula
Inversions
Roman numeral analysis
Diatonic chord progressions
Building triads (chords)
Popular song analysis
How to identify key signatures
What it means to be "in key"
Analyzing melodies
Writing melodies with major scales
Solfege
Scale degrees
The pattern of a major scale
Ordered pitch class collections

Chromatic and diatonic scales
Accidentals
Ties
Time signatures
Dotted rhythms
Downbeats and upbeats
Tempo
Beat and beat divisions
Identifying notes on the keyboard
Identifying notes on the staff
Naming octaves
Intervals
Clefs
Half-steps and whole-steps
The black keys (not the band!)
The white keys
Pitch classes
Pitch names
The elements of the score
Show more
Show less

Read music using proven techniques
Understand all the symbols (not only the notes) of a music score
Read, play, and count rhythms accurately
Chords on the guitar
Augmented triads
Diminished triads
Finding fifths by finding thirds
The thirds inside of a chord
Finding chords by formula
Inversions
Roman numeral analysis
Diatonic chord progressions
Building triads (chords)
Popular song analysis
How to identify key signatures
What it means to be "in key"
Analyzing melodies
Writing melodies with major scales
Solfege
Scale degrees
The pattern of a major scale
Ordered pitch class collections
Chromatic and diatonic scales
Accidentals
Ties
Time signatures
Dotted rhythms
Downbeats and upbeats
Tempo
Beat and beat divisions
Identifying notes on the keyboard
Identifying notes on the staff
Naming octaves
Intervals
Clefs
Half-steps and whole-steps
The black keys (not the band!)
The white keys
Pitch classes
Pitch names
The elements of the score
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

Welcome to Part 1 of the Music Theory Comprehensive Course!

Welcome to the class! In this lecture we will do a quick overview of the course.

I approach music theory from a composer and songwriters perspective. In this lecture I'll walk you through how I think about Music Theory and how I approach teaching (and learning) it.

I'm going to teach this class using a really cool (and FREE) software program. You don't need to get it, but I think it will help you learn more, and learn faster.

Here is the download I talked about in the previous lecture. Some nice clean staff paper. Print out a few sheets for taking notes!

There are a lot of music notation software programs (well, only 3, actually). And they can be quite expensive. I'm recommending a free one, but the others are worth talking about quickly before we dive in to the real guts of the class.

To get started, I want to just walk through a score and point out the different elements that we are seeing. We will learn what all of these mean soon.

Here we go: The names of the pitches.

We have pitch names, which we just learned. We also have pitch classes - slightly different (but important) than pitch names.

A lot of music theory comes down to intervals - the distance between notes. Our first interval that we will learn is the Octave.

Here is a downloadable PDF worksheet for you to practice on. Page 2 of this worksheet has the answers on it so you can check your work. Practice, practice, practice!

We won't be learning how to play the piano in this class. But the piano is useful to us because it gives us a really nice visual of the notes.

We've learned the names of the notes, so next lets learn how to find them on the keyboard.

The black keys present a little bit of a problem. They have 2 different names, and this can be confusing. But hold tight - it will all make sense after this video.

We've learned about Octaves - our first interval. Now we need to learn 2 more intervals, and these are much smaller than an octave.

Up next: A little recap. We need to connect a few dots to make sense of how this all works together.

Lets go a little deeper on how the staff works, and how we read notes from it.

A new wrinkle! The Clef can show us what range of notes we are talking about. There are many clefs, and everything changes if we are on a different clef.

Lets focus just on the treble clef for now, and get back to what we already know.

Now that we can see notes on the staff, we should try to get comfortable naming the notes and the intervals.

Sometimes we use numbers to indicate the octave, like C3, C4, C5, etc. You might see these numbers so I want you to know what they mean.

Before you dive into the first worksheet, let's go over the Natural symbol.

So far we have talked about notes on the score, and rhythms on the score. What about volume? We call volume "Dynamics" and this is how we notate them.

In order to notate rhythms, we need to be able to quantify them by their relationship to each other.

We can add a dot to any rhythm (or rest) to elongate it.

What about a rhythm that indicates a certain amount of silence? That is called a rest, and there is one for every rhythmic symbol.

So far we have looked mostly only at the time signature of 4/4. But there are many others, and things work a little differently in each one.

So far we have a whole note (4 beats long) as the longest possible rhythmic symbol. But we can make longer symbols by connecting a few together using ties.

A brief side note: I've been giving you a lot of terms in this class that are specific to the way we talk about music in the United States. In this lecture I'll talk a bit about some things you should know if you are outside of the U.S.

There is a little more to accidentals that we haven't learned yet. Lets tie up some loose ends about accidentals in this video.

Form is the order of events in music. It is also notated on the score using repeats, DS sections, and other tricks.

There is a secret website that publishes thousands and thousands of scores that we can download and practice with.

Here are my tips for practicing!

Here are a bunch of files for you to practice with. This is actually a complete book of (fairly) simple music compositions to practice with.

Thats it for part 1! We've only scratched the surface!

In the next class, we are going to be talking about Scales and chords. I thought here would be a good chance to give you a preview, and let you know why we care about these things.

There is plenty more to learn!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Uses a composer's and songwriter's perspective to teach music theory, which may appeal to those interested in creating their own music

Minimizes memorization and focuses on understanding why chords behave in certain ways, which can be helpful for beginners

Prepares learners for the Praxis II Test, ABRSM Music Theory Exam (up to Grade 8), AP Music Theory Exam, and college placement exams

Uses MuseScore 3.0, a free software program, to teach music theory, which lowers the barrier to entry for beginners

Belongs to a series of courses, which may indicate a more in-depth and comprehensive exploration of music theory concepts

Includes a lecture that addresses differences in music terminology between the United States and other regions, which is helpful for international students

Reviews summary

Solid foundation for reading music

According to students, this course provides a highly effective and accessible introduction to reading music, particularly for complete beginners. Many reviewers praise the instructor, Dr. Jason Allen, for his clear, patient, and engaging teaching style, which makes seemingly complex topics easy to understand. The course materials, especially the downloadable worksheets and practice exercises, are frequently highlighted as invaluable tools that significantly aid learning and retention. While the pace is considered ideal for novices, a few reviewers with some prior musical background felt it was a bit too slow or basic, suggesting its primary strength lies in catering to those starting from scratch. Overall, it is seen as a strong first step in a comprehensive music theory journey.

Worksheets and practice materials reinforce learning effectively.

"The downloadable worksheets are a fantastic resource for practicing what you learn."

"I found the exercises really helped solidify my understanding."

"Having the practice files available made a big difference in my learning process."

Ideal starting point for learning to read music from zero.

"This course is perfect for absolute beginners with no prior music knowledge."

"As someone starting from scratch, I found this course incredibly accessible."

"It truly starts with the fundamentals and builds knowledge logically."

Instructor is highly praised for clarity and engagement.

"The instructor is excellent at explaining complex topics clearly."

"Dr. Allen's teaching style is very engaging and easy to follow."

"He patiently breaks down everything step by step, making it understandable."

Pace is ideal for beginners but potentially slow for others.

"The pace is just right for me as a beginner."

"For someone with a little background, it might feel a bit slow and basic."

"I wished there were more challenging exercises earlier on, but the depth is good for part 1."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Music Theory Comprehensive: Part 1 - How To Read Music with these activities:

Review Basic Math Skills

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Reinforce foundational math skills to better understand rhythmic divisions and time signatures.

Browse courses on Fractions

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Complete online math quizzes.
Review fraction concepts.
Practice basic arithmetic problems.

Explore 'The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Theory, 2nd Edition'

Show steps

Gain a simplified understanding of music theory concepts through a beginner-friendly guide.

View Music Theory Note by Note: Your Guide to How... on Amazon

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Read assigned chapters.
Complete exercises in the book.
Review key concepts.

Read 'Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory'

Show steps

Supplement course material with a widely used music theory textbook for additional explanations and exercises.

View Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 3 on Amazon

Show steps

Read assigned chapters.
Complete exercises in the book.
Review key concepts.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Rhythm Counting Exercises

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Improve rhythm reading skills through repetitive counting exercises using different time signatures.

Show steps

Download rhythm exercises.
Count rhythms aloud.
Use a metronome.

Follow Online Music Notation Tutorials

Show steps

Refine music notation skills by following online tutorials for software like MuseScore.

Show steps

Find MuseScore tutorials.
Follow along with the tutorials.
Practice notating music.

Compose a Short Melody

Show steps

Apply learned concepts by composing a short melody using proper notation and rhythmic values.

Show steps

Choose a time signature.
Write a melody using notes and rhythms.
Notate the melody using music notation software.

Transcribe a Simple Song

Show steps

Solidify understanding by transcribing a simple song, focusing on notation and rhythmic accuracy.

Show steps

Choose a simple song.
Listen to the song repeatedly.
Transcribe the melody and rhythm.
Verify the transcription.

Career center

Learners who complete Music Theory Comprehensive: Part 1 - How To Read Music will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Composer

A composer creates original musical pieces, and this course is beneficial for developing the skills necessary to read and write music. Understanding all the elements of a music score, as covered in the course, is foundational for composition. Knowledge of pitch names, intervals, rhythms, and notation is essential for effectively writing music, no matter the genre. The course will equip any aspiring composer with a toolkit to express their musical ideas clearly on paper. A composer should take this course because of the course's method to minimize memorization, which helps one to learn by understanding why chords behave in certain ways.

See salaries and explore the career path for Composer

Arranger

An arranger adapts existing musical works for different ensembles or instruments. This course helps arrangers by providing a comprehensive understanding of music theory, particularly how to read music and interpret musical notation. Proficiency in identifying intervals, clefs, time signatures, and other elements of the score is crucial for transforming a piece while preserving its essence. With skills learned from this course, any arranger can effectively translate musical ideas across varied instrumental and vocal settings. An arranger should take this course to minimize the memorization of music theory and focus on understanding it.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arranger

Music Teacher

A music teacher instructs students of all ages in musical concepts and performance techniques. This course is a valuable asset for music teachers, because it reinforces their grasp of music theory. A music teacher needs a strong foundation in reading music, understanding rhythm, and explaining musical notation, all of which are covered in the course. Knowing the elements of the score, pitch names, and identifying notes will improve a teacher's ability to convey musical ideas effectively. A music teacher should take this course to learn music theory in a comprehensive way.

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Choir Director

A choir director leads and trains a group of singers. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of music notation and theory, which is extremely helpful for any choir director. A choir director must be able to read music, teach vocal parts, and understand musical forms and structures. Knowing intervals, rhythms, and key signatures allows a choir director to lead rehearsals and performances effectively. A choir director should take this course to understand the symbols of a music score.

See salaries and explore the career path for Choir Director

Orchestrator

An orchestrator takes a composer's work and assigns specific instruments to play different parts. This course helps the orchestrator by providing a strong foundation in understanding musical scores and notation. An orchestrator must know how to read and interpret all the elements of a score, including pitch, rhythm, and dynamics. Having experience in intervals, clefs, and time signatures becomes essential for creating a rich and balanced orchestral sound. An orchestrator should take this course because the course takes a minimal memorization approach to music theory.

See salaries and explore the career path for Orchestrator

Band Leader

A band leader manages and directs a musical ensemble. This course ensures a band leader grasps the elements of music theory. A band leader must effectively read music, communicate musical ideas to band members, and arrange music. Understanding notation, rhythm, and harmony is essential for coordinating performances. A band leader should take this course to learn music theory more comprehensively.

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Musical Director

A musical director is responsible for the musical aspects of a theatrical production. This course may be useful in helping any musical director. A musical director must be proficient in reading scores, conducting rehearsals, and ensuring the quality of musical performance. Understanding notation, rhythms, and musical forms will allow a musical director to bring a production to life with artistic vision. A musical director should take this course to understand all the symbols in a music score.

See salaries and explore the career path for Musical Director

Film Score Editor

A film score editor works closely with composers to prepare and refine music for film. This course may be useful for aspiring film score editors by providing a focused understanding of music theory concepts. A film score editor benefits from reading music fluently, interpreting musical notation, and understanding the structure and form of musical pieces. These tools help film score editors communicate effectively with composers and enhance the impact of music in film. A film score editor should take this course to learn to read music using proven techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Film Score Editor

Studio Musician

A studio musician is a skilled instrumentalist or vocalist who records music in a studio setting. This course allows studio musicians to increase their capabilities with reading and interpreting musical scores accurately. A studio musician must be versatile in reading different styles of music, understanding notation, and performing musical parts flawlessly. Knowledge of rhythm, intervals, and key signatures helps a studio musician deliver professional recordings. A studio musician should take this course because it is based on real-life experiences.

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Music Therapist

A music therapist uses music to help clients address emotional, physical, and psychological needs. This course may be useful for music therapists, who may want to improve their understanding of the fundamentals of music theory. Being able to read music and understand rhythm and notation could enhance a therapist's ability to create and implement effective therapeutic interventions. A music therapist should take this course to understand the relationship between music notation and dynamics.

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Music Journalist

A music journalist writes about music, musicians, and the music industry. This course should help music journalists improve their technical understanding of music. A music journalist expresses their ideas in a professional manner. An understanding of musical notation, theory, and composition allows greater insight into the creative process. A music journalist should take this course to equip themselves with the basic knowledge of how to read music.

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Sound Engineer

A sound engineer records, mixes, and masters audio for various applications. This course allows a sound engineer to enhance their understanding of music theory and notation. A sound engineer with knowledge of music fundamentals can better understand the nuances of musical pieces, and thus produce clear and balanced recordings. A sound engineer should take this course to help them understand and work with musicians.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sound Engineer

A disc jockey mixes and plays recorded music for an audience. This course may be useful for any DJ to enhance their knowledge of music theory. A DJ with an understanding of musical structure, key signatures, and phrasing can produce seamless transitions and create engaging musical experiences. A DJ should take this course to improve their knowledge of the music that they are playing.

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Talent Scout

A talent scout seeks out and recruits promising musicians for record labels or other organizations. This course provides a talent scout with the tools to communicate effectively with musicians. A talent scout may find this helpful for understanding the technical skills and abilities of potential recruits. A talent scout should take this course to improve their musical comprehension.

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Roadie

A roadie is a member of a touring musical act's crew who travels with the musicians and handles equipment. This course may be useful to roadies who wish to communicate effectively with musicians. A roadie may find this helpful to better understand the technical skills and abilities of the musicians they support. A roadie should take this course to improve their musical comprehension.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Music Theory Comprehensive: Part 1 - How To Read Music.

Music Theory Note by Note

Save

Similar to "Music Theory for Dummies," this book offers a user-friendly approach to learning music theory. It covers the basics of notation, scales, chords, and harmony in a clear and concise manner. is particularly useful for students who prefer a step-by-step approach and want to build a solid foundation in music theory.

Music Theory Note by Note: Your Guide to How Music...

Kindle Edition

Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 3

Save

Provides a comprehensive introduction to music theory concepts. It covers topics such as notation, rhythm, scales, and chords in a clear and accessible manner. It useful reference tool for students who want to reinforce their understanding of the course material. Many students and instructors use this book as a textbook.

Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 3

Paperback

Music Theory Comprehensive

Part 1 - How To Read Music

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Solid foundation for reading music

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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