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George W. Russell, Jr.

After a tremendous response from learners on Coursera, Berklee Online has created a Developing Your Musicianship specialization, and this course is the second course in the series. If you have a basic knowledge of music theory or if you have completed Developing Your Musicianship I, this course will continue to help you understand key musical concepts, enabling you to create and perform contemporary music. Taught by Berklee College of Music professor George W. Russell, Jr., the course includes four lessons that delve into the next level of harmony and ear training.

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After a tremendous response from learners on Coursera, Berklee Online has created a Developing Your Musicianship specialization, and this course is the second course in the series. If you have a basic knowledge of music theory or if you have completed Developing Your Musicianship I, this course will continue to help you understand key musical concepts, enabling you to create and perform contemporary music. Taught by Berklee College of Music professor George W. Russell, Jr., the course includes four lessons that delve into the next level of harmony and ear training.

The course will introduce you to new key signatures, including minor tonalities, and how they are constructed. You will train your ear to hear minor intervals and 7th chords. You will learn how to build 7th chords, and how to build common chord progressions. You will also learn the major pentatonic scale and how to construct melodies using this scale.

The course culminates with an assignment that asks you to compose and perform an 8-measure composition using popular chord progressions and the Major pentatonic scale. Just like Developing Your Musicianship I, the course is designed to impart the joy of creating music and sharing it with others.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome to Musicianship: Chord Charts, Diatonic Chords, and Minor Keys!
Welcome to Musicianship: Chord Charts, Diatonic Chords, and Minor Keys (also known as Developing Your Musicianship II)! Here we will cover all the details about the course and what you'll need to know to get the most out of your course experience.
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Lesson 1
In this lesson, we will spend a little time reviewing the material from Developing Your Musicianship I. We will learn about the Key of F Major and its related minor key, D minor. We will also practice training our ears to hear minor 2nd and 3rd intervals and major and minor 7th chords.
Lesson 2
In this lesson, we will explore diatonic 7th chords in the key of G major and F major. We will learn four new popular chord progression using diatonic triads. We will continue to train our ears, reviewing the intervals and chords from the previous lesson while adding minor 6th and 7th intervals and the dominant 7th chord.
Lesson 3
In this lesson, we will learn about the key of G major. We will play with the popular chord progressions from the last lesson by adding the 7th. We will continue to train our ears, reviewing the intervals and chords from the previous two lessons while adding the tritone and the half diminished (or the minor 7 flat 5) chord.
Lesson 4
In this final lesson, we will explore the major pentatonic scale. We will also learn how to write a chord chart using the popular chord progressions from this course. We will continue to train our ears, reviewing all of the intervals and chords from the course.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Continues to help build strong foundation for intermediate learners
Taught by George W. Russell, Jr. who is recognized for their work in music
Taught by Berklee College of Music professors who are recognized for their work in music
This is the second course in its specialization series
May be less helpful for absolute beginners
Uses common chord progressions found in many genres

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Reviews summary

Enjoyable course with knowledgeable instructor

Learners say this course is a joy to take because of its knowledgeable instructor. According to students, this course is well-structured and helped them to learn about chords and their structure. Students highly recommend this course.
Learners suggest that others take this course.
"I will not hesitate to recommend this course"
The course content is well-structured and informative.
Learners enjoy learning from this course's instructor.
"A good course with a fine instructor..."
"A very pleasant coursewith an equally pleasant instructor."

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 Musicianship: Chord Charts, Diatonic Chords, and Minor Keys with these activities:
Compile and Review Course Materials
Compiling and reviewing your course materials will reinforce your understanding of the key concepts.
Browse courses on Review
Show steps
  • Gather all of your course materials, such as notes, handouts, and assignments.
  • Review the materials regularly, highlighting important concepts and making connections between them.
Review the Major Scale and Intervals
Reviewing the major scale and intervals will provide a solid foundation for understanding the concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on Major Scale
Show steps
  • Review your notes or textbooks on the major scale.
  • Practice identifying intervals within the major scale.
Follow Tutorials on Music Theory and Ear Training
Following tutorials will provide additional instruction on music theory and ear training, reinforcing your understanding of the concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on Music Theory
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on music theory and ear training.
  • Follow the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the techniques demonstrated.
  • Ask questions in the comments section or discussion forums if you need clarification.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Review 'Harmony and Theory' by George W. Russell, Jr.
Reviewing 'Harmony and Theory' will introduce the minor scale and how they are constructed, as well as how to use both major and minor scales to construct melodies.
Show steps
  • Read the first three chapters of the book.
  • Take notes on the different types of scales and how to construct them.
  • Practice writing melodies using the major and minor scales.
Compile a Glossary of Musical Terms
Creating a glossary will help you retain and recall key musical terms.
Browse courses on Music Theory
Show steps
  • Start a document or spreadsheet.
  • As you encounter new musical terms in the course, add them to your glossary.
  • Include the term, its definition, and an example.
Practice Ear Training Exercises
Practicing ear training exercises will improve your ability to identify and distinguish between musical intervals and chords.
Browse courses on Ear Training
Show steps
  • Find online ear training exercises.
  • Practice regularly, listening to and identifying the different intervals and chords.
  • Track your progress and identify areas where you need more practice.
Join a Study Group or Find a Music Theory Mentor
Connecting with peers or a mentor can provide support, encouragement, and different perspectives on music theory concepts.
Browse courses on Music Theory
Show steps
  • Find a study group or mentor through online forums, social media, or local music schools.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course material, practice ear training exercises, and provide feedback on each other's work.
Compose a Song Using Popular Chord Progressions and the Major Pentatonic Scale
Composing a song will provide a practical application of the major pentatonic scale, and popular chord progressions.
Browse courses on Harmony
Show steps
  • Choose a chord progression from the course.
  • Write a melody using the major pentatonic scale.
  • Record your song.
Create a Video Tutorial on How to Train Your Ear to Hear Minor Intervals
Creating a video tutorial will reinforce your understanding of minor intervals and how to train your ear to hear them.
Browse courses on Ear Training
Show steps
  • Plan your tutorial, including the topics you will cover and the steps you will demonstrate.
  • Record your tutorial.
  • Edit your tutorial and add any necessary visuals or audio.
  • Publish your tutorial on YouTube or another video-sharing platform.

Career center

Learners who complete Musicianship: Chord Charts, Diatonic Chords, and Minor Keys will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Music Producer
A Music Producer oversees the recording, mixing, and mastering of music. This course can provide a strong foundation in music theory and ear training, which are essential for Music Producers to understand and manipulate musical elements effectively. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can also contribute to the development of a strong musical vocabulary and the ability to create compelling and engaging music.
Music Arranger
A Music Arranger adapts and modifies existing music for different instruments or ensembles. This course can be particularly helpful for Music Arrangers who wish to enhance their understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can contribute to the development of skills in reharmonizing and transposing music.
Music Teacher
A Music Teacher instructs students in the fundamentals of music, including music theory, ear training, and performance techniques. This course can be particularly helpful for Music Teachers who wish to enhance their understanding of chord progressions, diatonic chords, and minor keys. The course's emphasis on ear training and practical application can also contribute to the development of effective teaching methods.
Musician
A Musician performs music using instruments or vocals. This course can be beneficial for Musicians who wish to improve their understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can also assist in developing a deeper understanding of musical structure and harmony, which can enhance musical performance and improvisation.
Musician and Educator
A Musician and Educator combines performing and teaching music. This course can be particularly beneficial for Musicians and Educators who wish to enhance their understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can contribute to the development of a strong musical foundation for both performance and teaching.
Music Theory Scholar
A Music Theory Scholar researches and writes about music theory. This course can be useful for Music Theory Scholars who wish to enhance their understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can provide a strong foundation for conducting research and developing new theories.
Music Director
A Music Director oversees and coordinates all musical aspects of a production, such as an opera, musical, or film. This course may be useful in providing a foundation in music theory and ear training, which are essential for a Music Director to understand and interpret musical scores. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can also assist in developing a deeper understanding of musical structure and harmony.
Composer
A Composer creates original music. This course may be useful for Composers who wish to enhance their understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can provide a strong foundation for developing a unique musical style and composing compelling and engaging music.
Music Professor
A Music Professor teaches music at a college or university. This course may be useful for Music Professors who wish to enhance their understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can contribute to the development of a strong foundation for teaching music theory and musicianship.
Music Librarian
A Music Librarian manages and organizes music collections in libraries and archives. This course may be helpful for Music Librarians who wish to gain a deeper understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can provide a strong foundation for cataloging and classifying music materials.
Sound Engineer
A Sound Engineer works with audio equipment to record, mix, and master sound for various purposes. This course may be helpful for Sound Engineers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can provide a strong foundation for understanding and manipulating musical elements in sound engineering.
Music Therapist
A Music Therapist uses music to improve the physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being of individuals. This course may be helpful in providing a foundation in music theory and ear training, which can contribute to a deeper understanding of the therapeutic effects of music. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can also provide insights into the emotional impact of different musical elements.
Music Copyist
A Music Copyist prepares and transcribes musical scores. This course may be helpful for Music Copyists who wish to develop a deeper understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can provide a strong foundation for accurately transcribing and reproducing musical works.
Music Critic
A Music Critic evaluates and writes about music performances and recordings. This course can be beneficial for Music Critics who wish to develop a deeper understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can provide a strong foundation for analyzing and interpreting musical works.
Music Journalist
A Music Journalist writes and reports on music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. This course may be useful for Music Journalists who wish to develop a deeper understanding of music theory and ear training. The course's focus on chord progressions and minor keys can provide a strong foundation for analyzing and interpreting music for journalistic purposes.

Reading list

We've selected 13 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 Musicianship: Chord Charts, Diatonic Chords, and Minor Keys.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about music theory and how it is used in practice.
This classic textbook on harmony and voice leading valuable resource for students who want to develop a deeper understanding of these topics. It provides a thorough treatment of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords, and it includes numerous exercises to help students practice their skills.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory, history, and performance, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about music and how it is used in practice.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory, history, and performance, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about music and how it is used in practice.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Western music history, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of Western music and how it has evolved over time.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Western music theory, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of music theory and how it has evolved over time.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to supplement their learning in this course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of jazz harmony, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about jazz harmony and improvisation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of modal jazz composition and harmony. It includes coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords, and it provides numerous exercises to help students practice their skills.
Provides a comprehensive overview of jazz theory, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about jazz harmony and improvisation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about music theory and how it is used in practice.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory, including coverage of diatonic chords, minor keys, and seventh chords. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about music theory and how it is used in practice.

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