13 best music theory books
Music theory is a fundamental aspect of understanding and creating music, and there are many excellent books available on the subject. Here are some notable music theory books:
"Tonal Harmony" by Stefan Kostka and Dorothy Payne - This comprehensive textbook is widely used in music theory courses and covers topics ranging from basic principles to advanced harmonic concepts.
"The Study of Orchestration" by Samuel Adler - While primarily a book on orchestration, it also delves into music theory by explaining how various instruments work and interact in an orchestra.
"Harmony" by Walter Piston - A classic text that explores harmony in depth, including chord progressions, voice leading, and harmonic analysis.
"Counterpoint" by Johann Joseph Fux - Originally written in the 18th century, this book remains a timeless guide to counterpoint, a crucial aspect of music composition.
"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Composition" by Michael Miller - This beginner-friendly guide introduces music theory and composition concepts in a straightforward manner.
"The Jazz Theory Book" by Mark Levine - For those interested in jazz, this book provides a thorough understanding of jazz harmony and improvisation.
"Modal Jazz Composition & Harmony" by Ron Miller - A specialized book that explores modal jazz theory and composition techniques.
"A Geometry of Music" by Dmitri Tymoczko - This book takes a unique approach to music theory by applying geometric principles to harmonic analysis.
"How to Write Songs on Guitar" by Rikky Rooksby - Geared towards guitarists, this book covers songwriting and basic music theory for creating songs on the guitar.
"The Complete Singer-Songwriter: A Troubadour's Guide to Writing, Performing, Recording, and Business" by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers - This book combines music theory with practical advice for aspiring singer-songwriters.
These books cover a range of topics within music theory, from classical to contemporary and from beginner to advanced levels. Depending on your specific interests and goals, you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best music theory books on the market
Music Theory For Dummies
Wiley
Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory: A Complete Self-Study Course for All Musicians (Book & 2 CDs)
Alfred
Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert - The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide to Understanding and Learning Music Theory Effortlessly (Essential Learning Tools for Musicians)
Berklee Music Theory Book 1
Berklee Press
Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 1
Alfred Music
Music Theory for Guitarists: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask (Guitar Method)
Hal Leonard
Product features
Music Theory for Guitarists – Hal Leonard Guitar Method
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask
by Tom Kolb
Guitarists of all levels will find a wealth of practical music knowledge in this special book with online audio access. Veteran guitarist and author Tom Kolb dispels the mysteries of music theory using plain and simple terms and diagrams. The accompanying recordings provide 94 tracks of music examples, scales, modes, chords, ear training, and much more!
Take a Closer Look!
Get a sneak peek inside this comprehensive theory book.
Take a Closer Look!
Get a sneak peek inside this comprehensive theory book.
Take a Closer Look!
Get a sneak peek inside this comprehensive theory book.
Take a Closer Look!
Get a sneak peek inside this comprehensive theory book.
Berklee Music Theory Book 2
Hal Leonard
Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory, Complete (Lessons * Ear Training * Workbook)-------------- (CD's Not Included)
The Practical Guide to Modern Music Theory for Guitarists: The complete guide to music theory from a guitarist's point of view
www.fundamental-changes.com
Music Theory for the Bass Player: A Comprehensive and Hands-on Guide to Playing with More Confidence and Freedom
CapCat Music Publishing
Music Theory 101: From keys and scales to rhythm and melody, an essential primer on the basics of music theory (Adams 101)
Adams Media
The Chord Wheel: The Ultimate Tool for All Musicians (TOUS INSTRUMENT)
Hal Leonard Publishing Corporation
Product features
The Chord Wheel
No music reading necessary!
This convenient, spinnable wheel puts the most essential and practical applications of chord theory directly into your hands.
Music Theory for Computer Musicians
Cengage Learning PTR
Product features
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