Introduction to Music Theory

Basics of Piano Keys

• The piano keyboard starts with the letter C.
• White keys: C, D, E, F, G, A, B.
• Black keys: C#, D#, F#, G#, A# (also referred to as sharps or flats based on context).
• The sequence of notes repeats in octaves.

Understanding Octaves

• An octave is when a note is repeated at a higher frequency.
• For example, one C has half the frequency of the next higher C.

Piano Note Layout

• There are 7 white keys and 5 black keys.
• The C major scale is the sequence of C, D, E, F, G, A, B.
• E to F and B to C have no black keys in between (half steps).
• Other white key pairs, like D to E, have black keys in between (whole steps).

Scales and Steps

• Whole Step: Distance covering a black key between two white keys (e.g., C to D).
• Half Step: Distance without a black key between two white keys (e.g., E to F).
• Major scales consist of a pattern of whole and half steps.

C Major Scale

• Pattern: Whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, whole step, half step.
• Assign numbers to notes: C=1, D=2, E=3, etc.

Chords

• C Major Chord: Using notes 1, 3, 5 (C, E, G) from the scale.
• A Minor Chord: A similar pattern but starts on A with notes 6, 1, 3 (A, C, E).

Scale Modes

• Each note in a scale is a mode:
  • 1st (C): Ionian
  • 2nd (D): Dorian
  • 3rd (E): Phrygian
  • 4th (F): Lydian
  • 5th (G): Mixolydian
  • 6th (A): Aeolian (also a minor scale)
  • 7th (B): Locrian (scariest mode)

Chord Progressions

• Different progressions give music different "voices."
• Use Roman numerals to represent chords: Capitalize major (e.g., I) and lower case for minor (e.g., vi).

Advanced Concepts

• Circle of Fifths: Shows relationships between notes.
• New Scales:
  • G Major Scale (starts on G): Introduction of F#.
  • D Major Scale (starts on D): Introduction of C#.
  • A Major Scale (starts on A): Introduction of G#.
• Inversions: Playing chords in different orders (first, second inversions).
• Suspended Chords: Use patterns like 1-2-5 or 1-4-5.

Pentatonic Scale

• Uses 5 notes instead of 7.
• Often represented by just the black keys on the piano.
• Provides a "safe" scale where all notes sound harmonious.

Practice and Application

• Practice with different chords and scales.
• Explore making music using these concepts.

Note: These notes cover a basic introduction to music theory as applied to piano, emphasizing personal learning and creative application.