Your hands-on guide to to decoding the basics of music theory Whether you're a student of music or a music lover, Music Theory For Dummies presents you with essential information on how to read, write, and understand music, as well as helpful hints on composing, arranging, and creating original melodies, harmonies, and chords. Don't get discouraged by the seemingly complicated subject of musical theory. With Music Theory For Dummies , understanding music has never been easier! Find your rhythm - discover the rhyme and reason of rhythm - the most basic component of any type of music - and understand how it can make or break a performer Take note - get plain-English guidance on how to read notes, mnemonics to help remember the order of notes on the grand staff, and basic chord progressions and musical cadences Start making some noise - find out how to put it all together to read and play a variety of music, from classical fugues and sonatas to blues, rock, and pop Open the book and find: The birth of music and theory A look at notes, rests, staves, time, and beat How to read music notes Ways to master the major and minor scales Information on chords and chord progressions The building blocks of musical form Ways to create sound through tempo and dynamics Music theorists you should know about Valuable resources to add to your library Bonus CD Includes Tracks of example notes, chords, melodies, and more that are discussed in the book Learn to: Compose, deconstruct, and comprehend music Play with musical forms and genres Follow alongside musical excerpts on the audio CD.