• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Learning more theory?

L

lwknives

May 6, 2012
332
2
#1
Over the past year I have spent quite a bit of time learning theory but im not really sure where to go next.
I understand scales, chord tones and harmony, I understand where modes come from (ive never really used them though). I have a basic understanding of harmonies (parallel 3rd and 6th a little counter movement). I understand time sigs. I understand poly-rhythms to an extent (mathematically) but haven't ever needed to use that knowledge.

So, where do I go from here? What other theory is out there?
 
#4
Have you taken formal classes? Applying the knowledge by analyzing pieces is very helpful - especially to see how chords function. It's not just about naming the notes of the chord but to also see how they function and relate to harmonies before and after.

Test yourself by playing things - for example, play arpeggios to chord progressions.
 
#5
First of all: well done.

Like MostlyBass, I would suggest learning songs and analyzing the theory behind them. Jazz tunes, especially bebop, are extremely helpful for that.
 
#6
MostlyBass said:
Have you taken formal classes? Applying the knowledge by analyzing pieces is very helpful - especially to see how chords function. It's not just about naming the notes of the chord but to also see how they function and relate to harmonies before and after.

Test yourself by playing things - for example, play arpeggios to chord progressions.
Click to expand...

No formal training in theory. Lessons are not a practical option until I graduate.

I do play on the PW team at my church and can play arpeggios along with the chord charts.

So im mostly hearing that I just need to gain more understanding of how to use what I know by using it in songs?
 
#8
Theory is a mix of

- physics and psychoacoustic principles
- terminology
- stylistic knowledge

it's always worth learning more basic physics and psychoacoustic principles. When it comes to terminology and stylistic knowledge - just learn the stuff that applies to the styles you are into, or want to know more about.
 
#10
If you can identify key centers in simple to bebop reharmonization of standards, that's about as good a practical application of theory as it gets.

I thought I knew my theory until I needed to apply it. One of my guides let me know it's where the progression is going, not where it's been. It's pretty easy to get confused, but the simplest solution is almost always the 'right' one.
And some you just haveto let it go for the time being. If you can still get your fingers moving to match the chords you'll be fine.
 
#12
I'd say you're doing okay. You have a good grasp of theory, and sometimes people think that knowledge is everything. It's important, but experience trumps knowledge when it comes to playing live with a band. You have the basics down, so go and learn how to apply that knowledge. Textbooks can only teach you so much - playing with musicians week in and week out will improve your skills faster than anything else.
 
#13
I'd recommend solidifying and expanding your knowledge if 'common practice' theory before expanding into serialism, et. al. Perhaps study jazz along side it to recognize the differences and similarities,

For exercises, make little flash cards or pieces of paper with random chords to play. Like, okay a German Aug 6th chord jn the key of DB. Confused? Keep studying.
 
#14
Big +1000 to studying jazz and bebop tunes and analyzing chord sequences and substitutions.
Also great is taking Bach pieces and analyze those chord sequences and the melodic structure of the piece. After you're good at that try learning how to read figured bass. If you can do that...
 
#15
lwknives said:
No formal training in theory. Lessons are not a practical option until I graduate.
Click to expand...
You may have more options than you think.

My local university does adult evening classes in music theory for 2hrs, 1 night a week. I think they're either free or seriously discounted for actual students of the University.

I don't know what you're studying- or where - but it may be worth seeing if your institution, or somewhere else local, offers somthing similar.
 
#17
It's just my opinion, but it sounds like the OP has a decent knowledge of theory already. I'd go out and jam with every musician I could find. Theory is one thing, but you have to learn to put it into practise. Go forth young man, and play music with anyone and everyone as often as possible. That's the fastest way to improve your playing.
 
#19
MarkMgibson said:
I'd say you're doing okay. You have a good grasp of theory, and sometimes people think that knowledge is everything. It's important, but experience trumps knowledge when it comes to playing live with a band. You have the basics down, so go and learn how to apply that knowledge. Textbooks can only teach you so much - playing with musicians week in and week out will improve your skills faster than anything else.
Click to expand...

True, Im playing with as many people as I can. Im just wanting to continue my theory learning as I go.
 
#20
gavinspoon said:
You may have more options than you think.

My local university does adult evening classes in music theory for 2hrs, 1 night a week. I think they're either free or seriously discounted for actual students of the University.

I don't know what you're studying- or where - but it may be worth seeing if your institution, or somewhere else local, offers something similar.
Click to expand...

I have to much going on to dedicate 2 hours a week at a consistent time. It is $100 dollars to take a semester of theory and I would have to start with theory I.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back