Music Theory Basics

Piano Keys

• Learn the white keys: C, D, E, F, G, A, B.
• Notes repeat in octaves: C down here and C up here sound different due to octave differences.
  • Octave: Same note at different pitches; higher C has double the frequency of lower C.
• Black keys: C#, D#, F#, G#, A# (sharp notes); can also be referred to as flats.

Scales and Steps

• C Major Scale: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C.
  • Important scale with specific pattern: whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, whole step, half step.
• Half Step: Distance to the next immediate note.
• Whole Step: Skips a note or key.

Chords

• C Major Chord: Play 1, 3, 5 (C, E, G).
• Minor Chord Example: A minor scale starts at A within the C major scale, has a different feel (gloomy/moody).
• Chord Progression: Sequence of chords creating movement in music. Example: start at 1, jump to 2, then to 5, etc.

Modes

• Different starting points within the scale:
  • Ionian Mode: Starting from C.
  • Dorian Mode: Starting from D.
  • Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, Locrian: Different modes within the scale based on starting notes.
  • Aeolian Mode: Functions as a minor scale.

Circle of Fifths

• Shows relationships between notes.
• Neighboring notes in the circle are musically harmonious.

New Scales

• G Major Scale: Follow whole step, half step pattern starting from G.
• D Major Scale: New sharp (C#) added.
• A Major Scale: New sharp (G#) added, previous notes change role (e.g., A becomes major).

Inversions and Other Chords

• Inversions: Rearrange order of notes in a chord.
  • Example: A major chord starting from C# or E creates different inversions.
• Suspended Chords: Different note patterns (1, 2, 5 or 1, 4, 5) create suspended second or fourth chords.

Pentatonic Scale

• Simplified scale using five notes, often played using just black keys.
  • F Major Pentatonic: Example of simplified application.

Practice and Application

• Continuous practice recommended: Make chords, try inversions, and have fun.
• Note: This is a personal interpretation of music theory, may not align with formal teachings.