Deborah Jamini's Approach to Teaching Music Theory

Deborah Jamini's Approach
to Teaching Music Theory

What better way to demonstrate the efficacy of a product than to present it with results? Harmony and Composition is unique in that its paradigms include not only standard traditional excerpts and popular contemporary ones, but in addition features high-quality examples by students who have trained according to the method presented here. The DVD that accompanies this book includes an introductory quiz in which the viewer is invited to guess which, among the seven excerpts presented, are by eminent composers and which are the works of students following this program. The answers just might surprise you!

Different elements require different amounts of time and attention to be adequately learned. For this reason, Harmony and Composition includes a variety of user-friendly drills and exercises as each new element is taught. In addition, all lessons conclude with a summary that highlights the key points of that lesson. It clearly defines what to practice, what to memorize, and the vocabulary learned in that lesson.

Books of this kind generally fit into one of two categories. Some are aimed at beginners and cover the rudiments in order for them to better understand how music is structured. Others are geared for the more advanced musician at the high school or college level, and are generally too arcane for the average reader. Harmony and Composition covers all elements of music theory and harmony that AP and undergraduate programs are typically expected to know, but begins with absolute basics and follows an easy, step-by-step approach that even the total beginner can understand.

Many approaches recognize the importance of keyboard skills for musicians, but few, if any, include keyboard assistance. Harmony and Composition integrates keyboard studies into every lesson, and in addition includes an instructional DVD. The DVD addresses keyboard skills for the non-pianist, but also includes ear training assistance, demonstrations and, of course, the introductory quiz.

Every discussion, exercise, drill, and review aims to develop a thorough comprehension of the many styles of music based on the common principles of Western harmony. Harmony and Composition starts you from the basics and then extends beyond the scope of the 17th- through 19th-century common practice period into jazz and pop. It's clear, it's complete, and it's fun!

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