• Provide clear and concise explanations regarding the basic language of

music;

• Address appropriate subject matter for use by the instructor of college-

level introductory/developmental theory courses, as well as typical
Music Theory I courses;

• Add other relevant information, usually acquired informally by the

student outside the classroom;

• Support each learning objective or skill set with reinforcement in the

form of exercises;

• Prepare the student for a continuing study of music theory at

intermediate to advanced levels.

The format of the text and its scope will easily adapt itself to any of these
circumstances for the instructor or for the student. The modular approach and the
complete flexibility in terms of the online access and individualized customization
enhance the facility with which the text may be employed.

For example, a typical Fundamentals class may not require an examination of the
SATB style and part-writing procedures. In contrast, these would be critical skills
for a Music Theory I course. The Instructor can freely choose what material suits a
given need without resorting to an additional text. The multiple methods of access,
electronically and in print, offer both instructor and student an elastic approach to
the subject matter.

Introduction

A Definition of Music

In it’s broadest possible sense, music is defined as “organized sound.” This open-
ended and safe definition is coherent regardless of era, style, culture, or the
mechanics of musical organization. Each successive historical era produces
musically artistic expressions of its own time, its own musical aura. The study of
Music Theory is the means by which we investigate this.

A Definition of Music Theory

Music Theory is the study of music and its organizational characteristics. We define
and examine aspects of music:

• How do we perceive music aurally?
• How do we experience music aesthetically and?
• How do we symbolize music visually?

Preface

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