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Music Theory Courses

Music theory courses can help you learn chord progressions, scales, rhythm, and harmony. You can build skills in reading sheet music, analyzing compositions, and creating original pieces. Many courses introduce tools like notation software and digital audio workstations, that support composing and arranging music. You'll also explore concepts such as counterpoint, form, and orchestration, allowing you to apply your knowledge in various musical genres and styles.


More to explore:

Popular Music Theory Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    T

    The University of Edinburgh

    Fundamentals of Music Theory

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Music, Classical Music, Musical Composition

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.8K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • M

    Michigan State University

    Getting Started With Music Theory

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Music, Musical Composition, Classical Music

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    758 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    Developing Your Musicianship

    Skills you'll gain: Musical Composition, Music Theory, Music, Peer Review, Music Performance, Instrumental Music, Creativity

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.6K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    How to Play Guitar

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Music, Musical Composition, Music Performance, Instrumental Music, Creativity, Coordination, Mental Concentration

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.6K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    Music Production

    Skills you'll gain: Music, Musical Composition, Post-Production, Peer Review, Media Production, Music Performance, Creativity, Instrumental Music, Automation, Editing, File Management, Writing, Digital Signal Processing, Timelines, Electronic Media, System Configuration, Technology Solutions

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    3K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    C

    California Institute of the Arts

    Approaching Music Theory: Melodic Forms and Simple Harmony

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Music, Musical Composition, Classical Music, Music History, Instrumental Music, Music Performance, World Music

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    168 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Musical Composition, Music, File Management, Storytelling, Instrumental Music, Music Performance, Media Production, Automation, Editing, Technical Support, Writing, Creativity

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.1K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    Guitar for Beginners

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Music, Musical Composition, Instrumental Music, Music Performance

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.3K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    Y

    Yale University

    Introduction to Classical Music

    Skills you'll gain: Classical Music, Music History, Music, Music Theory, Instrumental Music, Musical Composition, Art History

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    4.1K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    B

    Berklee

    Piano Techniques for Modern Music

    Skills you'll gain: Journals, Music Theory, Music, Instrumental Music, Music Performance, Creativity, Coordination

    5
    Rating, 5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    23 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    Music Education for Teachers

    Skills you'll gain: Music Theory, Musical Composition, Music, Instrumental Music, Peer Review, Music Performance, Education Software and Technology, World Music, Teaching, Classroom Management, Oral Expression, Storytelling, Cultural Responsiveness, Media Production, Active Listening, Writing, Creativity, Collaboration, Technology Solutions

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    3K reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    B

    Berklee

    Electronic Music Production

    Skills you'll gain: Musical Composition, Music Performance, Music, Media Production, Music Theory, Instrumental Music, File Management, Performing Arts, Post-Production, Creativity, Digital Signal Processing, Electronic Media, Editing, Design Software, Peer Review, Automation, Patch Management, Technical Support, System Configuration, System Requirements

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.3K reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular music theory courses

  • Fundamentals of Music Theory: The University of Edinburgh
  • Getting Started With Music Theory: Michigan State University
  • Developing Your Musicianship: Berklee
  • How to Play Guitar: Berklee
  • Music Production: Berklee
  • Approaching Music Theory: Melodic Forms and Simple Harmony: California Institute of the Arts
  • Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music: Berklee
  • Guitar for Beginners: Berklee
  • Introduction to Classical Music: Yale University
  • Piano Techniques for Modern Music: Berklee

Frequently Asked Questions about Music Theory

Music theory is the study of the practices and possibilities of music. It encompasses the analysis of music's structure, including elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and form. Understanding music theory is important because it provides a framework for musicians to communicate, compose, and perform effectively. It helps learners grasp how music works, enabling them to create their own compositions and interpret existing works with greater insight.‎

Careers in music theory can be diverse and fulfilling. You might consider roles such as music educator, where you teach music theory in schools or private settings. Other options include music composer, where you create original pieces for various media, or music analyst, focusing on the study and critique of musical works. Additionally, positions in music production or sound design often require a solid understanding of music theory to create compelling audio experiences.‎

To learn music theory effectively, you should focus on several key skills. These include reading musical notation, understanding scales and chords, and recognizing rhythmic patterns. Additionally, developing ear training skills will help you identify intervals and harmonies by sound. Familiarity with music composition techniques and the ability to analyze musical pieces are also essential for a comprehensive understanding of music theory.‎

Some of the best online music theory courses include Getting Started With Music Theory, which provides a solid foundation for beginners, and Fundamentals of Music Theory, which dives deeper into the essential concepts. For those interested in specific aspects, Approaching Music Theory: Melodic Forms and Simple Harmony offers targeted insights into melody and harmony.‎

Yes. You can start learning music theory on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many music theory courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in music theory, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning music theory can be approached through a combination of structured courses and self-study. Start with foundational courses, such as those mentioned earlier, to build your knowledge. Supplement your learning with practice by analyzing music you enjoy, composing your own pieces, and engaging in ear training exercises. Joining online communities or forums can also provide support and motivation as you progress.‎

Typical topics covered in music theory courses include the basics of musical notation, scales and intervals, chord progressions, rhythm and meter, and the analysis of musical forms. Advanced courses may explore counterpoint, harmony, and orchestration. These topics equip learners with the tools to understand and create music effectively.‎

For training and upskilling employees in music theory, courses like Fundamentals of Music Theory and Getting Started With Music Theory are excellent choices. They provide foundational knowledge that can enhance creativity and collaboration in various music-related roles, making them valuable for workforce development.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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