Is knowing music theory a must for creating great music? Or is it a killer of your originality? Some say it sparks creativity, while others think it just boxes you in. Let’s find out and let’s get creative!
Music theory is like a map for making music—it can guide you and save time, but it’s not the only way to create a hit song. Some musicians think theory helps them be more creative and avoid wasting time, while others feel it limits their style and makes their music sound too common. In the end, whether you know music theory or not, what matters most is if your music sounds good to you and your listeners.
11 Music Theory Tips
Here are some things that you need to keep in mind.
- Genre-Specific Theory Knowledge: Recognize that different genres may require varying levels of music theory knowledge, with genres like jazz or orchestral music often demanding more from the start compared to singer-songwriter, pop, or certain rock styles.
- Creativity vs. Rules: Understand that some believe music theory can limit creativity and lead to generic music, while others find it provides a framework for innovation.
- Inspiration and Time-Saving: Use music theory as a source of inspiration and a way to save time by avoiding aimless experimentation (“noodling”) on an instrument.
- Frameworks for Composition: Employ music theory to provide frameworks for composition, such as modes, scales, or progressions, which can guide the creative process and help refine ideas.
- Efficient Search for Musical Elements: Utilize music theory to quickly identify and exclude certain techniques that may not suit the intended mood or style of a piece, thus saving effort and time.
- Recognition of Patterns and Innovation: Leverage knowledge of music theory to recognize patterns in music and distinguish between truly innovative elements and those that are not.
- Improved Communication: Use music theory to enhance communication about music, allowing for more precise explanations of musical ideas and intentions.
- Critical Evaluation: Apply music theory to develop a more critical view of your own work and that of others, helping to assess the uniqueness and quality of musical compositions.
- Music Theory as a Tool, Not a Judge: Remember that music theory should serve as a tool to aid in the creation of music, not as the sole judge of its quality. Good music can exist with or without music theory knowledge.
- Theory Follows Music: Acknowledge that music theory is often a post-hoc explanation of musical practices that already exist, suggesting that theory follows the music, not the other way around.
- Continuous Learning: Consider exploring music theory books and resources to gain inspiration and deepen your understanding of music theory.
Conclusion: Should You Learn It?
Music theory is a useful tool for writing music, but it’s not essential. It can guide you and save time, but creativity and your own style are what truly make music great. Whether you know music theory or not, if your music sounds good, it’s good. Remember, theory is just a way to understand music, not a rule that music must follow.
