How Music Works: The Tools of Music Theory
Upcoming dates (0)
Not scheduled at this time. Join the mailing list.
Summary
This comprehensive study of music theory provides a complete set of tools handy for either a lifelong interest in music or preparing to take college entrance exams. Explore theoretical concepts in short, fun, real-world assignments and study pieces by famous composers. Learn notation, rhythm, melody, harmony and analysis. Students can choose to use what they've learned to compose their own music.
Overview
How this course works
Working entirely online, learn the basics of music theory in the context of real-world settings and projects. Practice the same composition exercises used by such musical giants as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms and Charles Ives. View an extensive video with the instructor and interact with other students via online discussions.
What this course covers
Notation: pitch, duration, volume and timbre
Rhythm: rhythmic values and rhythmic elements
Scales: key signatures, scale degrees, major and minor scales, relative and parallel keys
Intervals: including simple and compound, melodic and harmonic, and consonant vs. dissonant
Triads: and their inversions
Basic harmony: including qualities of major/minor chords and of seventh chords in major/minor keys
Melody: motives and themes, phrases and periods
Ear training
Putting it all together: relationships between harmony and melody, nonharmonic tones and types, cadences, musical analysis
Building your own music
Earn Continuing Education Hours
By participating in this class you will earn:
| Instructional Hours | 40 |
| University of Wisconsin Continuing Education Units | 4 |