First Steps In Music Theory Guide

If notes are the "what," rhythm is the "when." Rhythm is organized by a called the beat.

The most basic chord is a triad, built by taking a starting note and adding the 3rd and 5th notes above it. First Steps in Music Theory

The starting note of your scale determines the "Key" of the song. If you start on C and follow the formula, you stay on the white keys. Start on G, and you’ll need to use one "sharp" (F#) to keep the pattern correct. 4. Intervals and Chords If notes are the "what," rhythm is the "when

Different shapes tell you how long to hold a note. A whole note lasts four beats, a half note lasts two, and a quarter note lasts one. 3. The Magic of Scales If you start on C and follow the

To visualize these notes, we use the —five horizontal lines and four spaces.

Theory takes the "mystery" out of the mechanics, but it leaves the of the music intact. By learning the language, you gain the power to communicate your own musical ideas more clearly to the world.