Without an instrument? Or would i need one to do examples whilst learning?
Matt
Full Version: Can I Teach Myself Theory Level 1..
It's possible to do all eight grades of theory without an instrument. It's more beneficial and easier to remember if you do play something though. It's like only taking the theory test and then not learning how to drive on a motorbike/in a car.
Thanks 
i'm only considering doing level 1 whilst i save up for my viola of choice and hey it's nice to have something to be working towards.
Matt
i'm only considering doing level 1 whilst i save up for my viola of choice and hey it's nice to have something to be working towards.Matt
You're right: doing something is always better than doing nothing!
What attracted you to the viola?
What attracted you to the viola?
mmm i think i just find violin/violas quite erm it's hard to explain, it's quite an emotional instrument. Well in my opinion lol. I did consider violin but i just prefer the sound of the viola and so i decided to take it up, i wanted to start it about 18 months ago but times flew by really quickly and i'm not sure whats happened to it. What do you play John and why?
Matt
Matt
QUOTE(JohnS @ Dec 23 2005, 03:38 PM) 
It's possible to do all eight grades of theory without an instrument. It's more beneficial and easier to remember if you do play something though. It's like only taking the theory test and then not learning how to drive on a motorbike/in a car.
You might also find that knowing and applying the theory are 2 different things.
QUOTE(sbhoa @ Dec 23 2005, 04:23 PM)
QUOTE(JohnS @ Dec 23 2005, 03:38 PM)
It's possible to do all eight grades of theory without an instrument. It's more beneficial and easier to remember if you do play something though. It's like only taking the theory test and then not learning how to drive on a motorbike/in a car.
You might also find that knowing and applying the theory are 2 different things.
So i should wait til i'm playing then...?
Matt, I'm taking grade 1 theory first session, i'm booked.... I started learning it this week, get your hands on eric taylors two books, first steps in music theory grades 1 - 5 and the part 1 of ab guide to music theory. Also theres a workbook for theory and sample papers - these are all ABRSM publications.
I think learning grade 1 prior to starting your instrument will give you greater comprehension when you start playing
I think learning grade 1 prior to starting your instrument will give you greater comprehension when you start playing
Not necessarily, it might help you to be able to clap basic rhythms, for example, before you start playing the viola (an excellent choice of instrument btw, it shows good taste!) but it always helps to be able to apply the knowledge you learn to something practical. Remember, we're always here to help you.
QUOTE(Rainbow @ Dec 23 2005, 04:36 PM)
Not necessarily, it might help you to be able to clap basic rhythms, for example, before you start playing the viola (an excellent choice of instrument btw, it shows good taste!) but it always helps to be able to apply the knowledge you learn to something practical. Remember, we're always here to help you.
Though if you are a complete beginner to music you might need help in understanding the idea of how different note values work in practice.. it doesn't make immediate sense to everyone who understands it theoretically.
Learning some basic theory before starting to play might help you to make sense of the music when you dp start to play.
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