Music Theory
Theory Series Vol 1

Jacob Chriss

1/28/2004

Review by Molly

Musician, music teacher Chriss’ book of 27 lessons covers everything from The Musical Alphabet, Staff and Tones in The Staff, to Intervals, and Perfect fifths, Octaves, Unison, Fourths, to Major and Minor Thirds, Sevenths, Seconds, Sixths and Major and Minor Triads. Seventh Chords, Chord building, The Circle of Fifths, Diatonic Modes and The three Minor Scales. Advanced Chord building is introduced along with Melodic and Harmonic minor, Mode lists, Chord Lists, Common Progressions and Musical Expressions. The Appendix offers notes information about German Notation, Chord Notation and Typical Expression.

Author Chriss states in his preface "The purpose of this book, (Music Theory, Theory Series Vol 1 ) is to give you a chance to deeply learn the most common and relevant terms in the subject of music theory."

I found Music Theory, Theory Series Vol 1 presents fundamentals of music in a coherent, readable manner. Lessons are short, running to 5 pages or so, print is large enough to see without squinting even without my reading glasses and is presented in plain terms with lots of illustrations to hammer home the information being taught. I particularly like the wide margins offered on the page: I, as many others, am one who likes to write notes in the margin as I study.

The 122 page work is not really the average young child’s ‘beginning piano book’, rather Music Theory, Theory Series Vol 1 is a work presented to guide older kids and adults who may want to sharpen their skills and advance at their own pace with a clear understanding of the basics of music itself.

Writer Chriss says "The course is primarily aimed at musicians in the non-classical field, but classical musicians can benefit tremendously from it too." When I first received the book for review I thought I might review then pass on to my key boardist son. On the other hand, I think I will keep the book, use it and perhaps surprise son when MOM sits down at the keyboard and manages something more than a scale or two.

The book product itself is produced on a good hardy paper with sturdy wire binding. Covers are heavy stock. Trying it out on the piano I find the book lays flat, pages turn easily, lessons are presented in concise, understandable language. Music Theory, Theory Series Vol 1 will offer the music teacher of older students another tool for honing their skills.

This book can be found at Trafford Books.