Customer Reviews

Music in Theory and Practice Vol 1 w/ Anthology CD

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(9)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

This book is an excellent work, written by Bruce Benward and Gary White. The explanations are limited to the indispensable minimum and written in a schematic way that makes it very easy to grasp, followed by plentiful musical examples, mostly from music literature that say more than a thousand words, and that is what I like best about this book, despite the theory you have to learn, you know you're talking about real music. It is divided in three parts. The first part, on the first volume, concentrates on the fundamentals of music and it explains very well the concepts of notation, scales, tonality, key, modes, intervals, chords, in a way understandable for any one; the second part, also in volume one concentrates on the structural elements of music like melodic organization, voice leading in four-part chorale writing, harmonic progression and modulation. There are lots of exercises in this book but for people who have no experience at reading music I would recommend, a specific book for that, because the ones on the first part of the book though helpful, aren't enough and you will need that ability to study the rest of the book. (This review concerns the 5th edition of the 1st vol.)

The third part of the book, in the second volume was written by Bruce Benward; it concentrates on analysis methods and analysis of musical examples from the 16th century until present day. I strongly recommend you to also take this part. After you do, a musical piece is no longer just a bunch of notes, or a beautiful melody, you see it as a meaningful organized whole. (see more)

As a graduate student in music theory, I have had to review different textbooks used to teach music theory. Even to the average musician, music theory can sometimes be hard to grasp. However, with the simple but sufficient explanations, this book is definately the best one on the market today. Used with the workbook and possibly a supplimental anthology, students can get a thorough grasp of the theoretical concepts from early music to 20th century music including a bit of jazz, pop, and modern music genres. I highly recommend it.

The CD helps with the theory part. I find most theory book lacks practical application. This book will be a good source for those who are interested in applying music theory into real world music playing.

It is an excellent resource for basic theory and form. This book got me through 2 semesters of theory in college and I am currently using it for Form and Analysis. Its a bit pricy but has a vast amount of theory knowledge in one place. If you would like more advanced theory look into their Second Volume!

I have used this text successfully for several years with first-year college theory students, both in the classroom and in directed study. It offers many clear examples and a variety of exercises for students to complete. I intend to continue using it and would recommend it not only as a classroom text but as a vehicle for independent study for practicing musicians without an extensive knowledge of music theory.

Definetely the best theory book I have seen. Everything is explained very thouroghly, and there are lots of exercises and examples given. If you go in order of the book, it takes you right from where you need to start, with notation, intervals, triads, etc., and progressively covers more things. I would reccomend this to anyone.

I wouldn't recommend this book for self-study unless you are well acquainted with music theory and are using this as a review. Some of the concepts are not that well explained. However, it is designed as a classroom text, and for that and with a good teacher, it is excellent. Well organized and logical in it's progression. An intro to music notiation would be very helpful before taking a class using this book. It progresses very quickly. The accompanying workbook is highly recommended for reinforcement.

My class worked with Dr. Benward on this book--we were his test class. Although this may not be the best book for everyone, it is a very comprehensive text that requires the instructor's input. As Benward told us, if we were to teach theory we must work towards the student's understanding of the concepts and not allow the text to work magic. Hence, we must illustrate and re-inforce the principles with our examples and experiences.

I hope I am lucid enough to help.

Good book.

Ian

This is a great basic theory book perfect for those who want to know more about music theory, and also for those pursuing a career in music. Covers a lot of basic classical theory so you can get started in understanding the fundamentals of music. Great reference book for musicians, as well. Whether you play guitar, sing, or even if you're just an avid music listener, this book will help you understand a little bit more what you're listening to or playing.

This Music study book is challenging but I wanted to learn some theory behind the music. It also has all the scales which I find beneficial. I am happy with my purchase.