Do I really NEED to know MUSIC THEORY

This video explores the necessity of learning music theory as a composer. I think I may have given the impression that theory wasn't as useful as it is while trying to argue that it's not absolutely necessary. Let me know what you think in the comments.

[@arryaxx263]

First word cracked me up. So true. Music theory comes naturally to me, and was a crutch to cover some pretty basic flaws in my skill set. There's a story about Jim Hall when he was on tour, and he sat down with a guy in the audience and started having the wonderfully deep conversation about music. He assumed it was a local pro that had shown up, all the way until the guy got up, and as if in passing, casually said, 'though I still really have a hard time playing in B flat'. I feel so much empathy for that guy.
The ironic thing is that despite only studying its theory at a shallow level, everything I compose comes out sounding Baroque, because that's what I played the most of. At the end of the day, even if you have a tin ear, it's the thing that really counts.

[@amberelmmusic]

Thanks for the comment! Listening and playing really is the best way to understand how something functions. Theory really gives you the vocab to discuss it and write about it.

[@nosferatu--]

Whatever sounds good is good. Don't need to follow the rules

[@amberelmmusic]

Totally. One thing I’ll say for theory thought is that if you want to intentionally break rules, it’s helpful to know what rules you are breaking.

[@francishenderson7867]

Promo SM 🤪