Do you believe that you need to understand music theory as a singer? Many people say that it is simply a waste of time and stunts creativity, but I would beg to differ. 

Music Theory Defined:

  Music theory is defined as the study of elements that construct a musical composition.The grammatical rules and structures that form the musical sounds we hear. Although there are rules set in place, the best artists know how to use these rules and form something completely new. These rules aid their creativity, they do not hinder it.   

Playing by the Rules:

  Think about music theory rules like rules for playing a sport. You abide by those rules but you still add your own flair to meet your goal, to get those points. Michael Jordan was not the best player in the NBA because he completely ignored the rules of basketball. He knew how to utilize those principles properly and creatively and became a world phenomenon.

So why is music theory important to understand? Here are three reasons why:

  Studying music theory allows you to understand the meaning behind the composition. You need to know which symbols represent what and acknowledge why certain intervals, scales and keys are placed together. Once you master this you will be able to read music quickly and get even more familiar with the pieces that you perform. Sight reading will be trouble-free and you will be able to perform pieces that are in genres like Musical Theatre, Jazz and Classical which are based heavily off of the comprehension of music composition.

Improving Your Ability to Write Songs:

  This skill is even more pertinent if you are a songwriter. Has a beautiful harmony ever just come to your mind and you feel like you have no way to actually record this idea? Personally, I experience these epiphanies a lot but because I lack the knowledge of music theory I have no way of recording the notes that are in my head. I settle for recording a voice memo but when the time comes for me to explain how I want the music to sound, all I have is a recording. So I have to hope that who I am working with can pick up on keys by ear. Which is very rare. The most I could do is pay someone to compose my vision by ear but this is not labor that I can get for cheap. And then I am back to square one.  Learning music theory will allow you, as a songwriter, to be more independent and confident in your musical creations. Instead of recording your idea on Snapchat or via voice memo you will be able to write it down on staff paper. 

Walking the Walk and Talking the Talk:

Additionally, you will be able to communicate your vision better with those who will assist in bringing your vision to life. If you can not communicate with musicians effectively then there is a possibility that your music will not come out the way you want it to. You need to be able to speak a musicians language. Referring to a note by its proper key name is better understood versus you just singing the note and hoping the musician understands. Understanding music theory will allow you to refer to certain points in the music properly, giving a clear definition on what you need done.   

Creativity on A New Level:

  Your creative boundaries can absolutely be pushed by learning the principles of music theory. You will be able to take those principles and create something new out of it in your own way. You will be able to not only sing but to be more involved in the music creation process. You will be speaking the universal language of musicians fluently. This is what it means to be a well rounded artist, differentiating yourself from those who can just sing. You will have the knowledge that can take you to new heights. If you need some help with learning music theory, book a intro lesson at Voicercise Online or in Studio . Written by: Airis Kemp (IG @ULoveAiris)