Online Music Theory Lessons

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What is Music Theory?

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Music Theory is the study of the fundamentals of musical structure, including the notation of notes and rhythms, analysis of musical form, part writing, and ultimately musical composition itself. Music theory is important because it teaches us not only how a piece of music is built, but also how that piece relates to other compositions, and how its attributes may reflect the time during which it was written. Music theory gives us a deeper understanding of a piece, and what the composer's intentions may have been.

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How Do Online Music Theory Lessons Work?
 

Prospective Music Theory students begin with a free online interview, on Google Meet,for Dr. Doll to assess the student's starting level. Dr. Doll will then tailor each lesson to the student's age, level, and pace of learning.

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• Online Theory Lessons available for ages 7 and up*

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• Classwork is shared to the student's screen and also emailed prior to the lesson

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• We use Google Classroom to manipulate notes and rhythms during class time

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• Students may also be given homework assignments, depending on level

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• Preparation for the AP Music Theory Exam is also available

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What Topics are Covered?

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Topics covered will depend on the student's level, but may include: musical notation, ear training, form and analysis, harmony, part writing, and composition basics. For more complex topics such as Shenkerian Theory, students will be referred to Dr. Doll's husband, Dr. Christopher Doll, who is an Associate Professor of Music Theory at Rutgers University.

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Please reach out to Dr. Doll with any questions at zbdoll@gmail.com

 

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* For very young students, the initial online interview will determine whether they are ready for online theory lessons. Students younger than 7 may be admitted if the interview shows them to be ready. Lessons for very young students will include many games to help make the fundamentals more fun!

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