Basic Music Theory: How to Read, Write, and Understand Written Music

Basic Music Theory

All you really need is your instrument and desire. The rest will come.
However, here are some things which will make your experience much
more pleasant and more successful in a shorter time. In order of
importance they are:

• instrument: If you’re a singer, you won’t have any problems
  with forgetting it somewhere. Get the best instrument you can
  afford and treat it well.


• metronome: Apart from your instrument, this is the most
  useful tool you can own as a musician. Get one early on and use it
  often. I’ll discuss its use later in this chapter.


• music: This may be method books, sheet music, or both. Not
  every practice session will require music. There are many things
  that can be done without it.


• music stand: There are many different types, from
  inexpensive fifteen dollar wire stands which fit in an instrument
  case to beautiful and expensive hardwood stands which aren’t so
  portable.


• pencil: This will be used to mark up your music with notes to
  yourself and also to record your sessions if you choose to do so.
  Keep several in your case so you’ll have one when needed.


• practice journal: A spiral notebook in which to keep a record
  of what you play, how long you play, and how you feel about
  your playing. This is a valuable tool to look back on. Not a
  requirement, but a good idea.


• tape/CD player: A very useful tool. Not only to provide good
  music to listen to, but also something you can try playing along
  with. Trying to figure out a favorite song is good training for your
  hand-ear coordination.


• tuner: A tuner can tell you exactly what pitch you play, and
  whether it’s in tune or not. You’re now in the world of sound and
  a small change of pitch is audible to most listeners.