Music Theory for Electronic Musicians 4: Twists and Turns from Udemy

Welcome to the

This course is "5-Star Certified" by the International Association of Online Music Educators and Institutions (IAOMEI). This course has been independently reviewed by a panel of experts and has received a stellar 5-star rating.

In this class we are going to focus on turning chord progressions into an expressive element of the track, and not just "blocks" of harmony. We will add some new chords, look at passing tones and a few kinds of suspensions, and a kind of "out of the box" chord progression called a Sequence. This will make writing chords a whole lot easier.

If Your Music is Missing Something, This is Probably It.

If you are finding that you are writing track after track, and while they sound good, there is something they are missing - then this it. You are missing the sense of harmony that professional producers have. In this class, I'll arm you with all the tools you need to produce those tracks just like you imagine them.

Who should take this course? Anyone interested in producing their own music. This will get you up and running and give your tracks a unique sound in no time.

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

Structure This course consists of video lectures, which all contain a session in Ableton Live 10. If you are using a different program (or none at all), no worries. This isn't a class on how to use Ableton Live, and the concepts can be applied to any DAW.

Topics include:

Non-chord Tones in Chords
Passing Tones
Neighbor Tones
Passing Chords
Neighbor Chords
Suspensions
Appoggiaturas
Cadences
Half Cadences
Plagal Cadences
Sequences
Progressions by a Fifth Sequence
Progressions by a Fourth Sequence
Progressions by a Third Sequence
... And much more.

The course is a roadmap to finding the missing piece in your tracks, or just getting started making great tracks.

All the tools you need to make, produce, and start your music career are 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 start making great tracks today.

I guarantee that this course is the most thorough music theory course available ANYWHERE on the internet - or your money back (with the Udemy 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

By the end of this course, you will have improved your tracks by understanding how to build chords and melodies that work together.
How to use non-chord tones to make great chord progressions
Using suspensions on the midi grid
Getting away from "blocky" sound chord progressions

Crafting perfect cadences
Writing easy chord progressions using sequences
Finding a quick key change in a sequence

By the end of this course, you will have improved your tracks by understanding how to build chords and melodies that work together.
How to use non-chord tones to make great chord progressions
Using suspensions on the midi grid
Getting away from "blocky" sound chord progressions
Crafting perfect cadences
Writing easy chord progressions using sequences
Finding a quick key change in a sequence

Syllabus

Introduction

Tools You Will Need

How to Use This Class

Let's look at getting away from those "blocky" chord progressions.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on using chord progressions expressively, which can help electronic musicians create more engaging and dynamic tracks

Covers cadences, which are essential for creating a sense of closure and direction in musical compositions

Explores sequences, which are useful for quickly generating chord progressions and finding key changes

Includes a section on non-chord tones, which are essential for adding color and complexity to chord progressions

Features lessons using Ableton Live 10, but the concepts are applicable to any DAW, making it accessible to a wide range of producers

Examines suspensions and appoggiaturas, which are essential for creating tension and release in musical compositions

Reviews summary

Advanced music harmony for producers

According to learners, this course is a highly recommended fourth installment that dives into advanced harmony concepts specifically tailored for electronic musicians. Students highlight the instructor's ability to explain complex topics clearly and provide practical examples using a DAW, making the material immediately applicable to music production. While some found certain sections challenging or dense, many feel the course successfully helps them move beyond basic chord progressions and add expressiveness to their tracks.

Assumes prior knowledge; builds effectively.

"This course is definitely for those who have completed the previous parts or have a solid foundation in music theory."

"It assumes you understand basic chords and scales before diving into these more advanced topics."

"If you've followed the series, this is a logical and valuable next step."

"Great continuation from the earlier courses, adding layers of complexity."

Covers advanced topics like sequences, suspensions.

"I learned so much about non-chord tones, suspensions, and sequences – things I hadn't explored before."

"The sections on sequences alone were worth the price of admission, they make writing progressions so much easier."

"The detailed breakdown of different cadence types was very insightful."

"Explores harmonic techniques beyond basic diatonic harmony effectively."

Instructor makes complex topics easy to grasp.

"The instructor explains the material in a very clear and concise way, breaking down difficult ideas."

"Jason Allen is fantastic at simplifying complex music theory for producers."

"Even advanced concepts like sequences and suspensions were presented understandably."

"His teaching style is very engaging and easy to follow, even for intricate topics."

Concepts are directly applicable to production.

"This course helped me understand how to apply these concepts directly to my tracks in a DAW."

"The examples shown in Ableton Live were incredibly useful for seeing how the theory works in practice."

"I can immediately start using these techniques to make my chord progressions more interesting."

"Really helped bridge the gap between abstract theory and actual music production."

Content can be dense; requires focus.

"Some parts felt a bit rushed, requiring me to rewatch lectures multiple times to fully grasp the concepts."

"The amount of information packed into some videos is high, definitely not a passive listen."

"It's not difficult theory, but the pace can feel quick sometimes with new concepts introduced rapidly."

"You really need to sit down and practice the examples to make the theory stick."

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 Electronic Musicians 4: Twists and Turns with these activities:

Review Basic Music Theory

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Solidify your understanding of fundamental music theory concepts to better grasp the advanced topics covered in this course.

Browse courses on Music Theory

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Review scales, chords, and key signatures.
Practice identifying intervals and chord qualities.
Complete online quizzes on basic music theory concepts.

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

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Gain a broader understanding of music theory principles to enhance your ability to create compelling electronic music.

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

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Read the chapters on harmony, melody, and rhythm.
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.
Apply the concepts learned to your own music production.

Analyze Chord Progressions with Peers

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Reinforce your understanding of chord progressions by analyzing existing songs with fellow musicians.

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Form a study group with other electronic musicians.
Choose several songs with interesting chord progressions.
Analyze the chord progressions, identifying non-chord tones, suspensions, and cadences.
Discuss your findings and share insights.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Compose a Short Piece Using Sequences

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Apply your knowledge of sequences by composing a short piece of electronic music that utilizes different types of sequences.

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Choose a key and tempo for your piece.
Create a chord progression using sequences learned in the course.
Add a melody and rhythm to your chord progression.
Arrange and mix your piece.

Study 'Tonal Harmony' by Stefan Kostka

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of tonal harmony to create more sophisticated and nuanced electronic music.

View Kostka, Tonal Harmony, 2018, 8e, Student... on Amazon

Show steps

Read the chapters on chord progressions, voice leading, and modulation.
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.
Analyze the harmonic structure of complex musical pieces.

Remix a Song Using New Techniques

Show steps

Apply the techniques learned in the course by remixing an existing song, focusing on incorporating non-chord tones, suspensions, and sequences.

Show steps

Choose a song to remix.
Identify the key and tempo of the original song.
Create a new chord progression using the techniques learned in the course.
Add new melodies and rhythms to your remix.
Arrange and mix your remix.

Create a Tutorial on Sequences

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of sequences by creating a tutorial for other electronic musicians.

Show steps

Choose a specific type of sequence to focus on.
Create a clear and concise explanation of the sequence.
Provide examples of how to use the sequence in electronic music.
Record a video tutorial or write a blog post.

Career center

Learners who complete Music Theory for Electronic Musicians 4: Twists and Turns will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Electronic Music Composer

An electronic music composer creates original musical pieces using electronic instruments and software. This course in music theory is particularly useful for an electronic music composer seeking to enhance the harmonic richness of their work. The course delves into using non-chord tones, suspensions, and sequences to create more interesting and dynamic chord progressions. By learning how to develop a sense of harmony, use cadences effectively, and move beyond basic progressions, the composer is poised to create unique and expressive electronic compositions. The topics covered in the course directly address the harmonic elements that add depth and interest to electronic tracks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electronic Music Composer

Music Producer

A music producer shapes the sound of a musical piece, often overseeing the entire recording process. This Music Theory course can help a music producer make informed choices about harmony and chord progressions, allowing them to move beyond basic chord blocks to create unique and expressive tracks. The course's focus on techniques like passing tones, suspensions, and sequences helps refine the producer's ability to craft sophisticated harmonic structures. Learning to manipulate cadences and explore chord progressions using sequences allows the producer to add depth and complexity to their productions, leading to a more polished and professional sound.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Producer

Songwriter

A songwriter crafts original songs, focusing on both lyrics and music. This course is particularly helpful to a songwriter, providing them with the tools to enhance the harmonic content of their songs. Learning how to use passing tones, suspensions, and sequences, assists a songwriter in creating more interesting chord progressions. The training in moving beyond basic chord patterns and using cadences effectively can significantly improve the overall musical structure, giving the song a unique sound. Understanding how harmony works allows the songwriter to create stronger and more expressive pieces.

See salaries and explore the career path for Songwriter

Remixer

A remixer takes existing tracks and reinterprets them, often adding new elements or altering the structure. This Music Theory course helps a remixer by providing tools to enhance the harmonic aspects of their remixes. Knowledge of chord progressions, passing tones, suspensions, and sequences allows the remixer to add creative layers of harmony while understanding how these new additions affect the overall piece. The course's approach to moving beyond blocky chord progressions and using cadences effectively can allow a remixer to add a unique signature to their work. A remixer who understands harmony can make more effective and compelling edits.

See salaries and explore the career path for Remixer

Arranger

An arranger takes an existing piece of music and adapts it for a different instrumental or vocal setting. This course helps the arranger by providing the tools to work with harmony in a more sophisticated manner. The course deals with techniques like passing tones, suspensions, and sequences. These concepts are incredibly useful for enriching the harmonic interest of a piece. The arranger can use the knowledge of cadences to shape the musical form. Their work is enhanced by a more in-depth understanding of harmony.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arranger

Video Game Composer

A video game composer creates music and soundscapes for video games. This Music Theory course can help a video game composer by offering a new perspective on harmony and chord progressions. The course's focus on techniques like passing tones, suspensions and sequences is particularly useful when creating interactive music for games. The video game composer can use their understanding of how chord progressions are constructed as well as their knowledge of cadences to evoke specific emotions or to fit the narrative of the game. The ability to write chord progressions quickly through sequences is also quite useful when time is a consideration.

See salaries and explore the career path for Video Game Composer

Sound Designer

A sound designer crafts audio elements for various media, such as films, video games, or interactive installations. While often focused on texture and effects, a sound designer can benefit from a strong understanding of music theory. This course can help a sound designer approach their work with a more musical perspective, using harmonic concepts to create more compelling soundscapes. The course's exploration of chord progressions, cadences, and sequences can be used to create a more nuanced sonic palette, especially in sound design work that involves music or musical elements. The understanding of how harmony can impact the emotional response to a piece is very useful for a sound designer.

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Session Musician

A session musician is a skilled instrumentalist hired to play on recordings or live performances. This course is useful for a session musician, providing them with a solid understanding of chord progressions, cadences and sequences. The ability to quickly learn parts and improvise within a set chord structure greatly benefits from the knowledge contained in a course like this. By understanding the harmonic framework of the music, session musicians can be more adaptable to the needs of the recording or the band.

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Musical Director

A musical director oversees the musical aspects of a performance or production, including rehearsals, arrangements, and performances. This course may be useful for a musical director, as it delivers deep training in harmony, chord progressions, use of non-chord tones, suspensions, and sequences. This knowledge of cadences can give the musical director tools to convey their vision in a detailed, specific manner. The musical director can use their deeper understanding of music theory to bring out the best in their performers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Musical Director

Film Composer

A film composer creates original music for films, aiming to enhance the emotional impact of the scenes. This course may be useful for a film composer, who can use the harmonic concepts taught in the course in order to create more poignant pieces. The course tackles techniques like passing tones, suspensions, and sequences. In addition, the study of cadences from the course can help the composer control the emotional direction of a scene. The composer would achieve a more polished work by using elements of the course to create more sophisticated harmonic structures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Film Composer

Audio Engineer

An audio engineer focuses on the technical aspects of recording and mixing music. While their role is often more technical than creative, an understanding of music theory can greatly benefit an audio engineer. This course may be useful for an audio engineer as it provides a deeper understanding of how harmonic elements work together. It covers how chord progressions are constructed, how to use non chord tones, and also how to use cadences to achieve specific effects. An improved understanding of musical structure makes it easier for an audio engineer to make informed mixing decisions, and to understand the artistic intentions of a composer or producer.

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Orchestrator

An orchestrator is a composer who specializes in writing out music for the orchestra, taking into account instrumental ranges, timbres, and other practical considerations. This role typically requires an advanced degree. This course may be helpful for an orchestrator, who can use the knowledge of chord progressions, cadences, passing tones, and sequences to enrich their arrangements and compositions. This course may teach techniques that orchestrators can use to add new complexities to their orchestrations, in terms of harmony. These principles can help an orchestrator create unique, compelling scores.

See salaries and explore the career path for Orchestrator

A DJ selects and plays music for an audience, often blending tracks together. While DJing is often about beatmatching and track selection, a knowledge of music theory can be an advantage. This course may be useful for a DJ as it can help them understand the harmonic relationships between songs. The DJ can use their understanding of chord progressions, cadences and sequences to make more seamless and effective transitions. The DJ can use this improved awareness to craft more innovative mixes, and to understand the harmonic nuances of songs.

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Touring Musician

A touring musician performs live music, often as part of a band or as a solo artist. While much of the job centers on live performance, a touring musician can benefit from a strong understanding of music theory. This course may be useful to the touring musician, who seeks to add depth to their work by way of chord progressions, passing tones, suspensions and sequences. Understanding cadences also gives the musician more control over the emotional content of their music. This course may allow a touring musician to become more confident while performing live.

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Music Educator

A music educator teaches music theory, performance, or history to students of all ages. This course may be useful to a music educator, helping to give them a new perspective on harmony and composition. While this course focuses on practical applications for electronic music, the concepts of cadences, chord progressions, and sequences readily translate to teaching. This course could also act as a valuable refresher of harmonic concepts. The educator can draw from this knowledge in order to teach students in new and creative ways.

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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 for Electronic Musicians 4: Twists and Turns.

Tonal Harmony

Save

Standard textbook for undergraduate music theory courses, providing a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of tonal harmony. While it may be more detailed than necessary for some electronic musicians, it offers a rigorous foundation in harmonic principles. It is particularly useful for those who want to delve deeper into the theoretical underpinnings of chord progressions and voice leading. This book useful reference tool for advanced concepts.

Kostka, Tonal Harmony, 2018, 8e, Student Edition,...

Hardcover

$$$

Music Theory Note by Note

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Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory concepts, from basic notation to more advanced harmonic principles. It's particularly useful for electronic musicians who may not have formal training in music theory. The book's clear explanations and practical examples make it an excellent resource for understanding the underlying principles of harmony and melody. It serves as a valuable reference for reinforcing concepts covered in the course.

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

Kindle Edition

Music Theory for Electronic Musicians 4

Twists and Turns

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Advanced music harmony for producers

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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