What do I listen for in a song in order to learn about music theory?


I’m in an AP music theory class at my highschool. I used to play an instrument but now I just fool around on piano and guitar. There’s so much music out there. What songs/composers do I listen to and what do I listen FOR in those songs? I just need a place to start.

There is a good list of tasks right here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_Placement_Music_Theory

The best way to increase your knowledge is to find a college harmony textbook.
See how far you can get through the book before you encounter unfamiliar musical terms.
If the task seems overwhelming, remember that college students spend four years on this course.

The best way to increase your dictation skills is probably to write down melodies which you are already familiar with–Yankee Doodle, Three Blind Mice, Mary Had a Little Lamb.
Then see if you can harmonize those melodies.

2 Responses

  1. Amy Says:

    Hi, I’m also taking AP music at my highschool.
    I think the best composer to listen to is J.S. Bach because his pieces have all kinds of harmonies and chords that you will need to know for theory. Try listening for the different chord progressions and cadences (tierce de picardie).
    Hope this helps :)
    References :

  2. suhwahaksaeng Says:

    There is a good list of tasks right here:
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_Placement_Music_Theory

    The best way to increase your knowledge is to find a college harmony textbook.
    See how far you can get through the book before you encounter unfamiliar musical terms.
    If the task seems overwhelming, remember that college students spend four years on this course.

    The best way to increase your dictation skills is probably to write down melodies which you are already familiar with–Yankee Doodle, Three Blind Mice, Mary Had a Little Lamb.
    Then see if you can harmonize those melodies.
    References :

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