I have a music theory question!

[opus]

Ugh... Gotta get some aspirin after reading thru this... Sorry, I'm self taught and play by ear!

Steve, I play by ear too, but reached the point where I felt I could not grow anymore unless I learned a) to sight read, and b) more about the mechanics of music.

Plus I wanted to communicate it with other musicians, being able to express what I liked and didn't like. ("Hey, that sounds good, but I think a minor third in the middle of the second verse would sound absolutely fantastic!")

[villenadecorte]

Kelly you have so many talents. I am impressed.

[another view]

Steve, I play by ear too, but reached the point where I felt I could not grow anymore unless I learned a) to sight read, and b) more about the mechanics of music.

Plus I wanted to communicate it with other musicians, being able to express what I liked and didn't like. ("Hey, that sounds good, but I think a minor third in the middle of the second verse would sound absolutely fantastic!")

I took a theory class in college and it just didn't work for me. So being at the point that you describe, several years ago I tried again. Same result - I guess I'm just not cut out for that. I know I've not been able to do some things that I'd like to do (jazz gigs for one) because of it, but I guess that's my limit.

When working out arrangements with my band (we do covers), we usually say "hey, how about this (and then play it)?". Bass, especially 5-string, is very easy to transpose on too.

Good for you for taking this class, I know how hard theory is. I got to the point that I really learned just how much I don't know! ;)

[Genuinefreelovism]

I took music theory as a frosh in high school, i got to the circle of 5ths and my grade went from a A- to a D+ by the end of the term. i can play any inst. i pick up but the stupid scales get me every time