Music Theory That Matters – Level 1

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Introduction

Music theory is often described as a tool for understanding music, not a set of rigid rules to follow. While this is true, its descriptive nature offers invaluable insights into what works musically and why. This course, Music Theory That Matters, is designed to bridge the gap between abstract theory and practical application, empowering you to create music that is both logical and creative.

Unlike traditional approaches that throw you into the deep end with modes and complicated chords, this course emphasizes the foundational element of harmony that is specific to the guitar world—the humble power chord. It is a two-note chord that we can use as a vehicle to understand keys, chord progressions, intervals, and more.

This course is not about overwhelming you with every possible concept in music theory. Instead, it’s about equipping you with the most essential tools to start making music right away. Many theory resources assume prior knowledge or fail to connect theory to practical playing. This course, however, has been field-tested with actual high school students, ensuring that the concepts are clear, actionable, and directly tied to the fretboard.

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for guitarists who are ready to move beyond simply playing songs and want to understand the why behind the music. Whether you’re comfortable with open chords, can play a few riffs, or are starting to explore scales, this course will help your understanding of harmony, the fretboard, and music.

What You’ll Achieve

By the end of this course, you will:

• Gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of harmony with a focus on practical application.
• Master the E, A, and D strings, enabling you to play power chords and navigate chord progressions with ease.
• Understanding the difference between Major and Minor keys and creating fun chord progressions that lift from both worlds.
• Use pentatonic and diatonic scales to create melodies that complement chord progressions.

Why This Approach Works

There’s no shortage of music theory resources available, but many fail to prioritize what truly matters for practical musicianship. This course is built on a carefully curated roadmap that balances theory with hands-on fretboard application. Each concept is paired with practical exercises, ensuring that you not only understand the theory but can also use it in your playing.

The course is structured to minimize overwhelm and maximize results. By focusing on the most relevant concepts first, you’ll quickly build a strong foundation that will serve as a springboard for further exploration. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player looking to fill gaps in your knowledge, this course will provide the tools and confidence you need to take your playing to the next level.

The Difference That Experience Makes

This course is the result of years of teaching and collaboration. Originally developed as a book for high school guitar classes, it has been refined through real-world experience with students of all levels. Unlike many online resources that lack practical testing, this course has been proven to work in the classroom and beyond.

If you’re ready to move beyond shapes and patterns and start making music that matters, this course is your next step.