Why is Music Theory So Hard?

What if I told you that music theory being hard is only an illusion?

It’s a myth that most people buy into. Usually, the reason why you think it’s difficult is because the material isn’t presented well. It’s completely disorganized, or the teacher is using convoluted words to talk over everyone’s heads.

Been there, done that.

It makes you feel like you’re not smart enough, or you lose patience with yourself and give up. Not so fast.

It’s much easier to say it’s too hard rather than thinking deeper about what’s really going on. In fact, one of the biggest things you can gain by learning music theory is problem-solving skills. That is because it works both sides of the brain equally making you a better balanced person overall.

Let’s find out why many people feel music theory is too hard.

why is music theory so hard

Why is Music Theory So Hard?

Music theory can be hard to understand because it uses music notes and symbols to describe what we hear. It also includes elements like harmony, rhythm, melody, counterpoint, form, and composition. These concepts help us understand why certain sounds fit together well, and why other combinations sound terrible.

According to Wikipedia, these rudiments are important for understanding music notation. The basic building blocks of music.

Music theory isn’t about translating notes and symbols into words. It’s about understanding the relationships between them and learning how to use them together to create a song. It sounds more complicated than it really is because it describes things visually.

Is Music Theory that Hard?

Music theory is not that hard overall. There are some parts that are fairly complex, but they’re not too difficult or hard to follow. Learn the smallest components first and then work on understanding how everything fits together to create what you hear.

If you are naturally creative, this will challenge the analytical side of your brain which may feel weaker. Don’t worry if you don’t get it right away. Just keep practicing until you do!

When Music Theory is Hard to Learn

If you find music theory hard to learn, there is a good chance it’s not you that is the problem. It is the teacher, author, or the way the materials are presented. Everyone learns differently. What works for one person will not work for another.

Creatives that primarily use the right side of the brain will find it useful to use color and learn the art side of music. Analytical brains that use the left side most will enjoy exploring the math and science behind music theory. This is the best way to start learning music theory. Gradually push yourself to get out of your comfort zone.

Visual people will need to see explanations using pictures. Kinesthetic will need to do it and experience the feeling in the body. Aural learners need to hear explanations paired with listening to the music.

Ideally, everyone needs music theory concepts presented and experienced in all three ways when possible. This makes it easier to understand and has a bigger chance of sticking. Experiment with seeing, hearing, and doing all material to find out what works best for you.

Why Music Theory is Hard Summary

Music theory is not as hard as your imagination says it is. Be smart and start learning music theory right away while you learn how to play an instrument. It takes time to learn and understand, so have patience with yourself.

Music theory is very useful for musicians because it helps them understand what they’re playing. It’s also helpful for reading sheet music, writing songs, composing music, and improvising. In fact, many professional musicians say that knowing music theory is the most important thing they learned about music while studying in college.

You don’t have to take a college course to learn music theory though. Just search this site where you will find many tutorials for absolutely free.

More Reading on Music Theory

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What is AP Music Theory?

Is Music Theory Hard?

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