Good theory reference books?

[FretFire]

I'm getting to a point where my lack of theory knowledge is holding me back, instead of my technique and ability. I'd really like to start getting into theory, but don't have time to go to a lesson once a week or anything like that. What books, if any, would you guys recommend? They don't necessarily have to be guitar related, I have access to a keyboard if it would be easier to start learning music that way.

 

[innerdreamrecords.co]

Re: Good theory reference books?

I think if you are just interested in the nuts and bolts of music theory the keyboard makes a great learning tool because it is designed in a very easy to understand layout. I don't remember the books used in my college days but there are tons of books for basic theory - you might consider some classical music books. If you're interested in writing songs I like Rikky Rooksby's book "How To Write Songs On Guitar" it's a lame title but a very good book.

 

[SpiderVenom]

Re: Good theory reference books?

Well, I'm not entirely sure a keyboard would be so helpful for you. I played piano for two years, and really, while you'll understand music theory in a more general sense, it probably won't do all that much for your playing.

The way I understand it, you want theory that will improve your guitar playing, as opposed to theory that will let you know more. There's certainly a different approach there.

Seems to me, you'd be better served understand things like guitar chord theory, scale/chord interrelationships, and what notes to play over chords - at the most basic level, what notes to play. Stuff like some of Troy Stetina's books, and Marty Friedman's "Melodic Control" would serve well, imo.

 

[innerdreamrecords.co]

Re: Good theory reference books?

you'd be better served understand things like guitar chord theory, scale/chord interrelationships, and what notes to play over chords - at the most basic level, what notes to play.

It's all the same, guitar or keyboard. But you are right if he's looking to expand his playing on guitar stick with guitar.

 

[FretFire]

Re: Good theory reference books?

Well, first of all I want to be able to read and understand music, that's goal #1. Applying theory to my playing is a second priority.

 

[innerdreamrecords.co]

Re: Good theory reference books?

Well, first of all I want to be able to read and understand music, that's goal #1. Applying theory to my playing is a second priority.

I studied classical theory, piano, voice in college and all that time played guitar (self taught on guitar for the most part). I still buy books on a regular basis and I think the easiest way to learn is on a keyboard - it's far more logical. You can then apply that to your guitar playing. Just my opinion.

 

[Mincer]

Re: Good theory reference books?

Look no further: Eldy's Music Theory for Practical People
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/09...103-2050179-8608626?n=507846&s=books&v=glance

it makes learning fun! (it really does!)

 

[FretFire]

Re: Good theory reference books?

Thanks for the suggestion Mincer, next time I'm at the bookstore I'll take a peek at it.