Author Description

Do you want a simple guide to how music is put together? Do you want to read and play melodies, rhythms, chords by sight, master an instrument faster, or write music of your own? How Music Works is a fun, richly illustrated course in music theory for curious readers of any age. Volume 2 (ages 11+) applies the engaging style of volume 1 to more advanced topics of harmony and musical form. You will learn: More advanced rhythm and singing skills (following volume 1) Foundations of harmony (including chord progressions, cadences, figured bass, and Bach chorales) To recognize common musical forms Fun, challenging music to perform with others or by yourself To compose your own music more easily (including writing for different instruments and combinations) Fundamentals of tone color To master your instrument faster To enjoy music of all kinds How Music Works moves at a manageable pace developed and tested in actual theory classes for student comprehension. Each chapter ends with exercises that apply new information and skills, ensuring steady progress. Ensemble pieces YOU perform are also included that apply new theory skills to real music at every step. No reader is left behind! Soon you will read and play music by sight, understand rhythm, instrumental registers, tone color, harmony, musical forms, and how they work together in the music of others and your own! The author draws upon four decades as music teacher and performer. 435 musical examples tests end each chapter to ensure comprehension blank space and staves included for student writing (no need for separate composition book or staff papers) 21 ensemble pieces of progressing difficulty apply theory skills to real music (12 singing studies and 9 rhythm studies for individuals or ensembles) 49 delightful and engaging drawings by renowned artist Nancy Jackson 15 original e