If you’re a composer looking to learn more about music theory, you’ve come to the right place! Learning music theory can help open up new avenues of creativity and expression in your writing, as well as providing a better understanding of the music you hear. There are many music theory books available, and it can be difficult to decide which one to use. To make this process easier, we have put together a list of the best music theory books for composers. Each of these books covers the fundamentals of music theory, and includes additional tips and tricks for composing. With these books, you’ll be able to develop your skills as a composer and create amazing pieces of music.
Best Music Theory Book For Composers
| Rank | Product Name | Score |
|---|---|---|
|
1
 |
The Pianist’s Guide to Historic Improvisation
|
9. 7
|
|
2
 |
A Composer’s Guide to Game Music (The MIT Press)
|
9. 5
|
|
3
 |
John Williams’s Film Music: Jaws, Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and the Return of the Classical Hollywood Music Style (Wisconsin Film Studies)
|
9. 1
|
|
4
 |
The Vintage Guide to Classical Music: An Indispensable Guide for Understanding and Enjoying Classical Music
|
8. 8
|
|
5
 |
Contemporary Counterpoint: Theory & Application (Music Theory: Counterpoint)
|
8. 6
|
|
6
 |
Music Theory, 3E (Idiot’s Guides)
|
8. 2
|
|
7
 |
Alfred’s Music Playing Cards — Classical Composers: 1 Pack, Card Deck
|
8. 0
|
|
8
 |
The Everything Reading Music: A Step-By-Step Introduction To Understanding Music Notation And Theory
|
7 .7
|
|
9
 |
How to Read Music in 30 Days: Music Theory for Beginners – with exercises & online audio (Practical Music Theory)
|
7. 4
|
|
10
 |
Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert – The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide to Understanding and Learning Music Theory Effortlessly (Essential Learning Tools for Musicians)
|
7. 2
|
1. The Pianist’s Guide to Historic Improvisation
I recently read The Pianist’s Guide to Historic Improvisation and I must say, it was an incredible book. This book is written by Bradley Sowash and provides a comprehensive guide for all pianists who are looking to improve their historic improvisation skills. The book is easy to follow and is broken down into multiple sections, with each section providing an in-depth look at a different aspect of improvisation. From key and tempo changes to harmonization of melodies, this book covers all the essentials for any pianist looking to get better at improvisation.
The book also includes helpful exercises and techniques that can be used to improve your improvisation skills. Additionally, Bradley provides helpful tips on how to apply the techniques in real-world situations. I found this incredibly useful and it gave me a better understanding of how to use the techniques in a live setting.
Overall, I would highly recommend The Pianist’s Guide to Historic Improvisation to any pianist looking to improve his/her improvisational skills. This book is an invaluable resource that should be a part of any serious pianists library.
format
- Provides a comprehensive overview of historic improvisation techniques and styles
- Explains the fundamentals of improvisation and explores how to apply the techniques to a variety of styles
- Includes exercises, music examples and advice on developing your own unique improvisation style
- Guides you on topics such as harmony and rhythm, as well as scales, chords and bass lines
- Features an introduction to improvisation from the Baroque to the 20th century
2. A Composer’s Guide to Game Music (The MIT Press)
I recently got the opportunity to read A Composer’s Guide to Game Music (The MIT Press) and I must say that it was an incredibly satisfying and informative experience. The book is written in an easy to understand and concise way, making it accessible to both experienced and novice game music composers. It covers many topics, from the fundamentals of game music composition to more advanced topics such as sound design and orchestration. The author also provides many examples from popular games, allowing the reader to gain insight into how some of the greatest game music was crafted. Overall, A Composer’s Guide to Game Music (The MIT Press) is an essential resource for anyone looking to compose music for video games. Highly recommended!
- Comprehensive guide to game music composition techniques
- Includes detailed discussions of all aspects of game music creation
- Explains the fundamentals of game music design, production, and implementation
- Includes case studies and interviews with industry professionals
- Suitable for both amateur and professional game music composers
3. John Williams’s Film Music: Jaws, Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and the Return of the Classical Hollywood Music Style (Wisconsin Film Studies)
John Williams’s Film Music: Jaws, Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and the Return of the Classical Hollywood Music Style (Wisconsin Film Studies) is a must-have for anyone looking to understand the impact of music in film. Williams’s work revolutionized the way in which music was used to enhance the storytelling of film, and this book provides a comprehensive look into his process. Written by leading film music scholar, Thomas Schatz, the book covers the scores of four of Williams’s most iconic filmsJaws, Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Schatz does an excellent job at analyzing the compositional techniques used in each score and examining their influence on the storytelling. He also examines the influence of the classical Hollywood music style and its importance in Williams’s scores. This book is an essential resource for anyone interested in learning more about the power of music in film and John Williams’s incomparable legacy.
- Comprehensive coverage of John Williamss film music, including Jaws, Star Wars, and Raiders of the Lost Ark
- Exploration of the return of classical Hollywood music style
- In-depth analysis of Williamss process for creating film scores
- Thorough review of the influence of Hollywood composers on the music of today
- Insights into the artistry and innovation of Williamss film compositions
- Published by Wisconsin Film Studies
4. The Vintage Guide to Classical Music: An Indispensable Guide for Understanding and Enjoying Classical Music
I recently purchased the Vintage Guide to Classical Music and it is an invaluable resource for learning about classical music. It is well organized, with sections on music theory, history, and styles, as well as a comprehensive list of composers and their works. The book also provides a comprehensive overview of the major periods of classical music, from the Baroque to the Modern. I found the sections on music theory and history to be particularly helpful, as they provided a great foundation for further exploration of the classical music world. The book also included helpful illustrations and photographs that enhanced the information. Overall, the Vintage Guide to Classical Music is an indispensable guide for anyone interested in exploring the world of classical music.
- A comprehensive guide to classical music, featuring a timeline of music history and an in-depth look at major composers and their works.
- Easy-to-follow, step-by-step advice on getting started with classical music.
- Tips for understanding and enjoying classical music, with helpful suggestions for further exploration.
- A collection of playlists, featuring classical music from a range of eras and styles.
- An exploration of the major musical forms and genres, with recommendations for recordings.
5. Contemporary Counterpoint: Theory & Application (Music Theory: Counterpoint)
Contemporary Counterpoint: Theory & Application (Music Theory: Counterpoint) is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning about the fundamentals of counterpoint. It provides an in-depth look at the history and theory of counterpoint, as well as an exploration of its application in modern music. The authors do an excellent job of explaining the concepts in an accessible and engaging way, making it an ideal resource for both novice and experienced music theorists. The book provides clear and concise examples of various types of counterpoint, and it also offers helpful tips and guidance on how to create effective musical compositions. Overall, Contemporary Counterpoint: Theory & Application is an excellent resource for any aspiring music theorist.
- Comprehensive guide to contemporary counterpoint theory and its application
- Provides an in-depth look at modern-style counterpoint, focussing on the music of John Adams, Steve Reich, Philip Glass and Terry Riley
- Includes exercises, practical examples and illustrations
- Explains the concept of harmonic rhythm and provides a comprehensive overview of musical elements
- Focuses on topics such as polytonality and polyrhythm, voice leading, texture, canon and imitation
6. Music Theory, 3E (Idiot’s Guides)
I recently purchased Music Theory, 3E (Idiot’s Guides) and I am so happy I did. This book provides an excellent introduction to the fundamentals of music theory. It is well-structured, easy to understand and clearly explains concepts in a concise and straightforward manner. I especially appreciate the integration of audio examples throughout the book, which make the concepts easier to understand. Additionally, the online resources provide a great way to review and practice the material covered. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of music theory.
- A comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of music theory
- Step-by-step explanations of the different aspects of music theory, including basic music notation, chords, scales, improvisation, and more
- Practical exercises to help you apply what youve learned
- Examples of popular songs and pieces to help illustrate different music theory concepts
- Presented in an accessible, easy-to-follow format tailored for beginners
- Updated 3rd edition with additional content and images
7. Alfred’s Music Playing Cards — Classical Composers: 1 Pack, Card Deck
I recently purchased the Alfred’s Music Playing Cards — Classical Composers card deck and I’m extremely impressed with the quality of the product. The cards feature classical composers from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic eras, with a brief biography of each composer on the back of the card. It’s a great way to learn more about some of the world’s most influential composers and their works. The cards are also a great way to learn the basics of music theory. For example, the cards feature different terms such as tempo, dynamics, and form, which are all important concepts to know when analyzing and performing music. The cards are also very durable and well made, and they come in a nice case that can be easily stored away. Overall, I highly recommend Alfred’s Music Playing Cards — Classical Composers to anyone interested in learning more about music theory and composers.
format
- Alfred’s Music Playing Cards – Classical Composers: 1 Pack, Card Deck
- 52 cards including composer biographies, musical trivia, and sample compositions
- Great introduction to classical music
- Ideal for parents, teachers, and music educators
- Can be used as a game or educational tool
- Colorful and fun design
- Made of high-quality, durable card stock
8. The Everything Reading Music: A Step-By-Step Introduction To Understanding Music Notation And Theory
The Everything Reading Music: A Step-By-Step Introduction To Understanding Music Notation And Theory is a comprehensive and invaluable resource for beginner and intermediate music readers. This book is an excellent starting point for those looking to gain proficiency in reading and understanding music notation. The text is easy to understand, and the accompanying diagrams and illustrations make it easy to follow along. The book takes readers through the basics of music theory and notation, and provides clear examples and explanations of each element. It also includes exercises to help build confidence and hone skills, as well as tips and advice to make the learning process enjoyable. Overall, the Everything Reading Music is a great way to get started with learning to read music.
- Designed as an easy-to-follow introduction to understanding music notation and theory
- Includes simplified explanations of key concepts
- Contains over 400 diagrams, pictures, and illustrations to help explain the materials
- Provides exercises that can be completed with access to an acoustic or electric keyboard
- Includes a CD with audio examples to help reinforce the material covered in the book
- Covers topics such as chords, scales, intervals, cadences, rhythm, and transposition
- Features step-by-step instructions for mastering sight-reading and developing aural skills
- Suitable for both children and adults
9. How to Read Music in 30 Days: Music Theory for Beginners – with exercises & online audio (Practical Music Theory)
I recently started trying to learn music theory and I found this book, “How to Read Music in 30 Days: Music Theory for Beginners – with exercises & online audio (Practical Music Theory)” to be an invaluable resource. I was able to learn the basics within a few lessons and found the exercises to be very helpful in reinforcing the concepts I was learning. The online audio was also incredibly helpful in understanding and applying the theory I was learning. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking to learn music theory. It is comprehensive and easy to understand, yet in-depth enough to really help teach the fundamentals.
- Learn how to read music in just 30 days
- Includes exercises and online audio
- Covers music theory for beginners
- Provides practical music theory
- Worksheets and quizzes to test your knowledge
- Gives step-by-step instructions on deciphering notes and chords
- Offers guidance on applying your knowledge to playing a musical instrument
- Includes tips and techniques to help you learn faster
- Provides helpful illustrations and diagrams to aid understanding
10. Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert – The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide to Understanding and Learning Music Theory Effortlessly (Essential Learning Tools for Musicians)
I recently purchased the book 10. Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert – The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide to Understanding and Learning Music Theory Effortlessly (Essential Learning Tools for Musicians) and it has been a great help in my journey of learning music theory. The book is an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide that walks you through the basics of music theory and explains t
