They break down music into sort of a “math” to be able to play in all the different keys. There are also strict rules on what is called “voice leading” for classical composers, and the theory of this is a lot of what makes up music theory.

If you’re gifted and musical, you can play and make music without knowing music theory. It comes naturally to you. Some musicians have an interest in music theory, and some don’t. For teachers and students doing the grind, however, they have to learn music theory.

Music theory is the study of the practices and possibilities of music. Because of the ever-expanding conception of what constitutes music (see Definition of music), a more inclusive definition could be that music theory is the consideration of any sonic phenomena, including silence, as they relate to music.

First of all, despite what everybody says, music theory is not “hard”. It is certainly “complex” i.e. there are many things that you need to understand, but each single one of these things is easy, and you do not need to understand the whole thing before you can use it. You can learn it one piece at a time.

It is well known that many musicians, from amateurs to famous professionals, are largely and sometimes exclusively self-taught. Most of the time, these musicians tend to put music theory aside, but there comes a time when many become curious about this science and understand its utility and potential.

How To Learn Music Theory 10 Times Faster

1. It’s all in your head.
2. Context is key.
3. Applicable music theory.
4. Memorize all key signatures.
5. Understand how chords are constructed and where they fit in a key.
6. Be able to instantly name any interval from any root note.
7. Practice this exercises to develop essential music theory.