Music Theory Resource Book [Spiral-bound] Review

"Music Theory Resource Book" by Harold Owen is a fantastic, creative approach to teaching music theory that emphasizes the development of musical skills that students can apply in a practical manner in any setting they choose, whether it be in the music industry or in graduate school. The book not only covers issues such as renaissance and medieval theory and notation in-depth, but also provides knowledge about MIDI note numbers and how to read piano-roll style notation in a sequencer. While this book would be a great book for a first-time student of music theory in a college or university, it is also good for people wishing to review (such as graduate theory review, a course I've taught). In addition, it's a fantastic review for those who teach theory and composition -- the chapter on notation (Chapter 2 - The Notation of Music) is something every composer should have at their disposal -- especially beginning composition students in a college setting. Especially useful for composition students (and all music students for that matter) are the two chapters on the music of the twentieth century -- the first on techniques developed in the first half of the century and the second on techniques developed in the second half of the century. Every chapter has something for everyone -- the chapter on "The Anatomy of Chords" not only describes the type of chord nomenclature found in the typical college theory classroom (Roman numerals and figured bass), but also includes a thorough section on chord symbols used in jazz and popular music -- something all musicians are bound to encounter in the real world. As someone who teaches music theory in a university setting, I've found this book to be a valuable resource. Too often, theory books use short excerpts to demonstrate a chord or principle. However, every chapter in this book begins with complete sections (and often entire movements) of musical works from the literature -- this helps to put the chord or principle being studied into context, something I find very important. I highly recommend this book.

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Product Description:
Music Theory Resource Book covers all the topics typically studied in the basic music theory sequence. Concise and accessible, it features a basic anthology of musical examples--most of them complete compositions--from a broad range of periods and styles. Each chapter begins with these musical examples, which are followed by thought-provoking discussion questions that encourage readers to learn through a "discovery" approach. A succinct outline follows the discussion questions, summarizing the principles of music theory for easy reference and review. Exercises at the end of each chapter engage readers in a variety of analytical and practical tasks ranging in difficulty from simple to challenging. This volume includes subjects not usually found in standard theory books including basic acoustics, contrapuntal techniques, jazz harmony, musics from non-Western cultures, and music since 1950.

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Mel Bay Jazz Theory Handbook Book/CD Set [Perfect Paperback] Review

There are many jazz theory books out, but Peter Spitzer's new Jazz Theory Handbook (complete with CD) stands out as the most thorough, yet easiest to comprehend.It's a must-read BEFORE reading any of the others. Mr. Spitzer carefully defines all his terms, then leads the musician step-by-step to the kind of clear understanding that leads to hands-on playing.The layout and typography are inviting, not overloaded as some books are.As a piano teacher, performer, and jazz lover for some 30 years, I simply can't say enough good about it.

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Product Description:
Jazz Theory Handbook is a complete guide to all the essential topics of jazz theory, suitable for all treble instruments. Its approach is clear and concise, realistic and practical. This book will help you to understand how contemporary jazz players think, and to apply theory concepts in your own playing. Subjects are introduced progressively, with each new one based on those introduced before. Topics include chord building, harmonic movement, modes, II-V-I licks, polychords, blues, rhythm changes, how to learn tunes, practice techniques, playing outside, and more. All of the book's musical examples are performed on the accompanying CD, along with sample solos and 3 play-along tracks with a great rhythm section. Jazz Theory Handbook is designed for both self- study and classroom use.

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