Music Theory for Songwriters: From Beginner to Producer from Udemy

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.

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
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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

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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

Reviews summary

Practical music theory for songwriters

According to students, this course is a largely positive and highly accessible introduction to music theory, particularly for songwriters and aspiring producers. Learners highlight the instructor's ability to break down complex concepts into digestible chunks, making theory feel simple and easy to grasp. The course's strong emphasis on practical application to actual music creation, including chord progressions and melodies, is consistently praised as a game-changer for improving songwriting processes. While ideal for absolute beginners, some more experienced learners found the pace a bit slow, suggesting its depth is foundational rather than advanced in production techniques.

Audio demonstrations are vital, though sometimes quiet.

"The audio examples were crucial and really helped demonstrate the concepts."

"My only minor gripe is that some of the audio examples were a little quiet, but it wasn't a major issue if you had headphones."

Highly effective for those with no prior music theory knowledge.

"A perfect course for beginners! I had zero prior knowledge of music theory..."

"While the course covers the basics well, ... It's definitely geared more towards absolute beginners."

"Good for absolute novices, though."

Instructor is praised for enthusiasm and clear explanations.

"The instructor's explanations are incredibly clear, and the examples really help solidify understanding."

"Good introduction to music theory... The instructor is engaging and enthusiastic."

"Amazing instructor! ... The instructor's passion for music is infectious."

Directly applies theory to songwriting and music production.

"I can finally see how theory applies to songwriting, and I've already started applying new techniques to my own music."

"It truly lives up to its 'beginner to producer' promise by making theory accessible for actual music creation."

"The course has directly improved my songwriting process. The 'developing our song' section was a nice touch for practical application."

"I used to just guess chords, but now I understand *why* certain progressions work and how to create specific moods."

Complex music theory is broken down into easily digestible parts.

"This course is absolutely fantastic! As someone who's always struggled with music theory, this broke it down into such digestible and practical chunks."

"A perfect course for beginners! I had zero prior knowledge of music theory and now feel like I have a strong grasp of chords, progressions, and melodies."

"Amazing instructor! He makes complex topics feel so simple. The instructor's teaching style is excellent, making complex ideas easy to grasp."

"Excellent course that truly breaks down music theory in an accessible way."

May be too basic for those with prior knowledge or seeking advanced production techniques.

"If you have any prior musical background, some sections might feel redundant. It's definitely geared more towards absolute beginners."

"I was hoping for more advanced production techniques linked to theory. While it covers theory, the 'producer' aspect felt a bit light."

"If you already know scales and basic chords, this might not be for you."

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

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Keeping a music theory journal will help you track your progress and identify areas where you need more practice

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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

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Gathering resources on music theory will provide you with a valuable reference for future learning

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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

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Watching tutorials on how to use music theory in songwriting will provide you with additional insights and perspectives

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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

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Practice writing chords

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Writing chords in different keys can significantly enhance your grasp of music theory

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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

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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

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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

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Practicing identifying chords by ear will develop your aural skills and improve your overall musicianship

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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

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Creating a song that uses music theory concepts will help you apply your knowledge and skills in a practical setting

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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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Music Theory for Songwriters

From Beginner to Producer

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Practical music theory for songwriters

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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