Music Theory and Composition Step by Step

This is a reference/textbook every musician needs. It covers theoretical subjects thoroughly & is organized so that all topics follow in a logical, easy-to-understand format. There are many graphics & music examples that provide extra help to the reader. The opening chapter is a review of the fundamentals for the amateur learning to read music notation & the basic rudiments of music. The next chapters present scale constructions, intervals & their inversions, tune writing & song form outlines, diads (two-part) harmony & counterpoint, triads (three-part) & chords (four-part), their types, inversions, extensions, progressions, substitutions, rules, etc. Chapter Five focuses on modal & other scale types including scales of other cultures. The awkward steps of the scale & the chromatics are pointed out. Their usefulness for modulation to other keys is demonstrated. Finally, various methods that the musician can use in transposition are presented. Quotes from reviewers: "...presents a comprehensive overview of the structure of music." "...one of the best laid out theory books." "I recommend its use on all levels." "The reader is never overwhelmed." "...has diverse applications from schools of music to the general public...the amateur, folk & rock musician."Tomei, Joseph A. is the author of 'Music Theory and Composition Step by Step', published 1991 under ISBN 9780962997303 and ISBN 0962997307.