Music Theory

Music theory is the study of how music works: the rules and patterns behind rhythm, melody, harmony, and composition that have developed across centuries of Western and global musical traditions. It was formalized by theorists from ancient Greece through medieval Europe and continues evolving today, with composers like J.S. Bach demonstrating its principles so perfectly that his works are still used as teaching tools today. Learning theory alongside an instrument (or voice) helps learners understand why music sounds the way it does, makes them faster learners on their primary instrument (if they have one), opens up opportunities for composing and arranging, and gives them a deeper appreciation for all the music they hear in daily life.