Music Theory Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Welcome message and introduction of Pat, a beginner in music.
• Promotion of discount code (RB 300) for books and ear training course.
• Goal: Beginner's guide to music theory.

Basics of Music Theory

Intervals

• Definition: Distance from one note to the next.
• Examples:
  • C to C# (or Db): Minor Second
  • C to D: Major Second
  • C to Eb: Minor Third
  • C to E: Major Third

Major Scale

• Major scale notes: C D E F G A B C (in the key of C)
• Intervals within major scale:
  • 1 to 2: Major Second
  • 1 to 3: Major Third
  • 1 to 4: Perfect Fourth
  • 1 to 5: Perfect Fifth
  • 1 to 6: Major Sixth
  • 1 to 7: Major Seventh
• All intervals in major scale are major or perfect.

Building Chords

Major and Minor Chords

• Major Chord: Root, Major Third, Perfect Fifth
• Minor Chord: Root, Minor Third, Perfect Fifth
• Example in C:
  • C Major: C E G
  • C Minor: C Eb G

Chord Progressions

• Common progression: 1 (C), 4 (F), 5 (G), 6 (Am)
• Chords in Key of C:
  • F Major: F A C
  • G Major: G B D
  • A Minor: A C E
• Roman numeral notation:
  • Major: Uppercase (I, IV, V)
  • Minor: Lowercase (ii, iii, vi)

Music Theory Applications

Melody Writing

• Good melody notes for C major: 1, 2, 3, 5
• Avoid parallel root movement in melodies.

Scales and Modes

• Natural Minor (Aeolian): Flat 3, Flat 6, Flat 7
• Modes of Major Scale:
  • Ionian (Major)
  • Dorian (Flat 3, Flat 7)
  • Phrygian (Flat 2, Flat 3, Flat 6, Flat 7)
  • Lydian (Sharp 4)
  • Mixolydian (Flat 7)
  • Aeolian (Natural Minor)
  • Locrian (Flat 2, Flat 3, Flat 5, Flat 6, Flat 7)

Applications in Songwriting

• Use modes to create interesting compositions.
• Avoid using only 1, 4, 5, 6 chord progressions for creativity.

Conclusion

• Memorization is key in music theory.
• Ear training enhances recognition of chords and progressions.
• Encouragement to use the discount code and explore further learning resources.
• Importance of creativity in music.

Additional Notes

• Discount code for book and ear training: RB 300
• Encouragement to subscribe and support the channel for more content.