Music theory basics: scales and keys
Music theory is not just learning to read notes, but a tool that helps you understand why songs sound the way they do. Once you have mastered scales and keys, learning new songs and improvising become quicker. This guide moves from notes to chords.
You will need
- A piano, keyboard or piano app
- A music notebook or notes app
- A picture of the circle of fifths
- 15–20 minutes a day
Steps
Learn the note names
In Finland the notes are C, D, E, F, G, A and H, and the flattened form of H is B. In English-language sources H is called B and B is called Bb, so check which naming system is being used.
Understand semitones and tones
Build a major scale
Build a natural minor scale
Learn the circle of fifths
Form basic chords
Recognise I–IV–V
Practise by listening
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