Pursuing an advanced degree in music education is a significant step for any musician or educator. A music education degree not only imparts musical understanding but also equips graduates with the skills to inspire the next generation of musicians. One of the core components of this journey is the study of music theory.
Music theory serves as the foundation for understanding the language of music, and mastering it can profoundly impact your ability to teach and perform. At Lamar University, the online Master of Music (M.M.) in Music Education program provides an opportunity to delve into musical concepts in a rigorous and inspiring way.
What Is Music Theory?
Music theory is the study of the fundamental principles that underlie all music, encompassing the rules and conventions musicians use to create, interpret and understand music. In music theory, students analyze melodies, harmonies, rhythms and forms, enabling them to dissect musical compositions and why they evoke certain emotions or atmospheres.
Music theory isn’t just about understanding how music works; it’s about communicating musical ideas effectively, as Play Music Today explains. Performers, composers and educators all require a strong foundation in music theory to connect with others through the universal language of music.
What Do You Learn in Music Theory Courses?
Music theory classes teach students to read and write music and delve into the study of scales, chords and key signatures, which are the elements of musical composition. Beyond these basics, music theory involves understanding concepts like harmony, counterpoint and melody. Courses in Lamar University’s online M.M. in Music Education, such as Basic Concepts in Music Education and Survey of Music Teaching Methods, support future educators in conveying the power and beauty of music.
How to Learn Music Theory
“Music theory will not show you how to understand music,” write the authors of the Niagara Conservatory of Music blog, “but with music theory you will be able to communicate musical ideas, explore music in whole new ways, and redefine the tremendous scope that entails the magical world of music. Music theory allows you to voice your opinion with others in the field [and] expand your musical horizon.”
Learning music theory can be an exciting and rewarding journey but requires dedication and practice. The best way to learn music theory is to start with the basics — such as note reading and understanding scales — and then gradually progress to more advanced topics. Practical application is also crucial. For example, applying what you’ve learned in theory to your instrument or in a classroom setting can reinforce these concepts and make them more intuitive.
To truly master music theory, engaging with it both academically and practically is essential. By studying music theory in a structured program like Lamar University’s online M.M. – Music Education, graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject they can apply in teaching or performance careers. The program’s courses integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, giving teachers the tools to inspire and enlighten.
Why Is Music Education Important?
Music education plays a vital role in developing a range of skills in students, from cognitive abilities to emotional expression. It’s more than just teaching students to play an instrument or sing — music education fosters creativity, improves critical thinking and enhances students’ ability to collaborate.
Learning music theory in addition to an instrument can be extremely beneficial as well. As pointed out by Thrive Piano, “No matter what you happen to play, whether it is piano, guitar, drums, or vocals, learning music theory can help you better your craft. […] Understanding how the rules work lets you break them when you see fit.”
Therefore, a strong understanding of music theory is essential in providing high-quality music education. Music theory allows teachers to explain the complexities of music in a way that is accessible and engaging for students. Through the online M.M. – Music Education program from Lamar University, educators gain the skills to help students develop their understanding and appreciation of music, enabling them to express themselves more fully and creatively.
Learn more about Lamar University’s online Master of Music in Music Education program.
