The Magic of Music Theory

The Magic of Music Theory Pre-Reading series are a workbooks for the young string student who is learning to play their instrument by ear. This series introduces the concepts of music notation and theory apart from playing the instrument.  The Magic of Music Theory teaches these concepts from the perspective of the fingerboard. Following the order of teaching points in the literature this series introduces pitches beginning with the upper two strings and moving to the lower two strings. Students learn to recognize and draw notes, rests, clefs, dynamic symbols, line notes and space notes, before being introduced to the staff. 

In addition to reading and writing notation, lessons introduce the music alphabet forwards and backwards, the string family – using stories, coloring pages and suggested listening. Composition activities are meant to spark the student’s creativity. 

Knowing that each minute of lesson time is valuable, The Magic of Music Theory workbooks are designed for students and practice partners to do together at home. Even the non-musically-trained practice partner will be able to understand and help their student complete the worksheets, games, and activities. A glossary with term definitions is in the back, and removable flashcards and music alphabet cards can be used for review games. 

Aural skill lessons are sprinkled throughout teaching listening skills by identifying high and low notes, loud and soft sounds, open strings, same or different patterns, notes going up and down, long and short. These lessons can be done in the private lesson, or completed at home using free mp3 tracks, or online videos. The these aural skills pages include samples using violin, viola or cello. Helping the student make the connection between what they hear and their instrument. The answer for each question of aural skills is given on the video or mp3 at the end of each question. This helps the student and practice partner learn and know if they are correct.