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Mike Barnes

Music theory can be a complicated, confusing subject. But it doesn't have to be. Did you know most popular songs use just a couple of easy concepts, which once you learn make the process of writing and producing music an absolute breeze.

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Music theory can be a complicated, confusing subject. But it doesn't have to be. Did you know most popular songs use just a couple of easy concepts, which once you learn make the process of writing and producing music an absolute breeze.

In this class, we're going to tackle everything you need to know about music theory to write great pieces of music. Everything from chords progressions to melodies are going to be covered so you can leave feeling confident and creative about making great music.

I highly recommend listening to this course with headphones/decent speakers. Some of the audio examples I present will be harder to hear through laptop or phone speakers.

By the end of this course, you'll have an excellent understanding of how to use Music Theory. But I'll also provide you with a tonne of information about songwriting and music production. From there, the possibilities are endless: orchestral film scores, chart-topping beats, 10-minute ballads and viral music sensations are all possible.

If you’re confused by anything we talk about in the class please feel free to ask me any questions. You can write to me on Udemy or email me.

Join me on the class and get creative.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The basics of music theory
  • Keys
  • Relative major/minor
  • Songwriting basics/development
  • Major scale
  • Chords
  • Chord progressions
  • Chord progressions inside the circle of 5ths
  • 7th chords
  • 9, 11, 13th chords
  • Sus chords
  • Chord inversions
  • Melodies, leads & bass lines
  • The pentatonic scale
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Getting started
Intro
Keys & Scales
Keys
Read more
The Major Scale
Minor Scales & Keys
Chords & Chord progressions
Chords
Chord Progressions
Chord Progressions made easy
Making Chords more interesting
7th Chords
Extensions
Sus Chords
Inversions
Melodies, Leads & The Pentatonic Scale
Final
Developing Our Song
Final Thoughts

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops knowledge of music theory, chords, progressions with a focus on songwriting
Teaches fundamental concepts of music theory and song writing
Covers a wide range of topics related to music theory
Taught by experienced instructors in music theory and production
Suggests using headphones/speakers for better audio experience

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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 for Songwriters: From Beginner to Producer with these activities:
Start a music theory journal
Keeping a music theory journal will help you track your progress and identify areas where you need more practice
Show steps
  • Create a new journal or notebook
  • Write down any music theory concepts or ideas that you come across
  • Review your journal regularly
Gather resources on music theory
Gathering resources on music theory will provide you with a valuable reference for future learning
Show steps
  • Find books, articles, and videos on music theory
  • Organize your resources in a folder or notebook
  • Review your resources regularly
Watch tutorials on how to use music theory in songwriting
Watching tutorials on how to use music theory in songwriting will provide you with additional insights and perspectives
Show steps
  • Find tutorials on how to use music theory in songwriting
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes
  • Apply what you've learned in your own songwriting
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice writing chords
Writing chords in different keys can significantly enhance your grasp of music theory
Show steps
  • Find a chord progression you like
  • Write out the chords in different keys
  • Compare the sound of the chords in different keys
Compose a melody using the pentatonic scale
Composing a melody using the pentatonic scale will strengthen your understanding of its unique characteristics and how it can be applied in songwriting
Browse courses on Melody writing
Show steps
  • Learn the notes of the pentatonic scale
  • Practice playing the pentatonic scale on your instrument
  • Compose a simple melody using the pentatonic scale
Practice identifying chords by ear
Practicing identifying chords by ear will develop your aural skills and improve your overall musicianship
Show steps
  • Find a recording of a song with simple chords
  • Listen to the song and try to identify the chords
  • Check your answers against the recording
Create a song that uses music theory concepts
Creating a song that uses music theory concepts will help you apply your knowledge and skills in a practical setting
Show steps
  • Choose a topic or theme for your song
  • Write the lyrics for your song
  • Compose the music for your song
  • Record and produce your song

Career center

Learners who complete Music Theory for Songwriters: From Beginner to Producer will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

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