Recommended Harmony Book/Text?

[Aaron]

I've received a fair grasp of jazz theory from transcription, studies from private teachers, and Levine's book in particular, but I want to start learning more about classical theory. I know there is a lot of overlap, but I'd like to start to learn the different vocabulary and practices. I'm looking for a book that will help me learn topics along the lines of functions of German/Italian/French 6 chords.

A book that also goes into various classical forms might also be helpful.

I'm not looking for something that is incredibly expensive, but maybe I could get a past edition for cheap. I doubt Beethoven's music has changed much in 180 years.

[chop_1992]

Originally Posted by Aaron

I'm looking for a book that will help me learn topics along the lines of functions of German/Italian/French 6 chords.

Paul Hindemith:
"Elementary Training for Musicians"
"Traditional Harmony" Bks 1 and 2
"The Craft of Musical Composition" Bks 1 and 2
I think they are all published by Schott.

I would recommend that you start with "Elementary Training" (It's not really so elementary...it's a great book if you have some theoretical loose ends), while at the same time checking out "Traditional Harmony, Bk 1."

Good luck,

John

[Aaron]

Thanks-

I enjoy his music, so hopefully his books are on par with his compositions. :-)

I checked out the table of contents of Elementary Training - I think I can probably skip that book. I might need to brush up on learning "church modes", but that was about it. I don't plan on writing too many Gregorian Chants.

[Alex Scott]

The fundamentals in that book are well worth the review, even if you are familiar with the contents. I would check it out at a music store nearby before dismissing it.

Which book is it (Craft?) Where he talks about what scales can be derived from the overtone series and comes up with a Lydian scale?

Pretty close parallels if you ask me.

[bassphase]

You don't mean George Russell's "Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization" do you? http://georgerussell.com/

Definitely NOT a Classically oriented text.


bob