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Music Theory and History

What makes that musical moment so amazing? Why did Bach write so many cantatas?

Learn what makes the music move in a history or theory class. Students enrolled in a full 16-week term of individual lessons or Suzuki Program may register for theory classes at no cost.

Adults listen to a music history lecture
choral singers sing from their folios
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Upcoming Classes

painting of a quartet

Preparing to Hear Masterworks

Fall 2022: October 25-November 15
Tuesdays 1:30-3:30 pm
UVMC Bach Room

Explore the history and music of three Bach cantatas through listening and discussion.

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student violinists with conductor

Music Theory for Performers

Fall 2021: September 20-January 17
Mondays 5-5:45 pm

Explore the principles underlying the interplay of the basic building blocks in a musical work.

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Sheet music

How Music Works: Part 1 and 2

Thursdays 10:45 am - 12:45 pm
Fall 2022: September 22-November 10

Unlock the mysteries of music in this introduction to music theory.

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student violinists with conductor

Note Reading Explorers

Not currently offered

Boost your music-reading skills in a fun environment with other students.

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girl playing piano

Music Theory for Piano Students

Not currently offered
Online via Zoom

Use the Royal Academy curriculum to deepen theory knowledge for piano students.

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folks playing music outside

Black Dots Boot Camp

Not currently offered. Please contact us if you are interested in this class!
Online via Zoom

Gain the skills to lift a basic tune off of the page and into your voice or instrument.

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Theory and Composition for Traditional Musicians

Not currently offered. Check back for dates in an upcoming term.
Wednesdays 7-8:30 pm
Online via Zoom

Students will compose tunes and discuss elements of music theory that relate to the compositions.

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Putting Together the Puzzle of Musical Style

Please contact us if you are interested in this course!

Using Bruce Adolf’s “Piano Puzzlers” as a starting point, students 16 and up will investigate how the elements of melody, rhythm, and harmony combine to create distinct compositional styles.

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Theory and History Faculty

Mark Nelson faculty in music theory and history

Mark Nelson

 Jane woods music theory faculty

Jane Woods