Music Theory 101

Hear more. Play smarter. Understand why songs work.

Music Theory 101 is a friendly, confidence-building introduction to how music works. Students learn rhythm, melody, harmony, scales, intervals, chords, and song structure—connecting concepts directly to songs they know and love. The tone is practical: theory as a tool for playing, composing, and hearing more clearly, not a pile of abstract rules.

We use ear training, simple writing, and hands-on exercises (keyboard-friendly but not required). Students learn to recognize patterns—why certain chord progressions feel satisfying, how melodies outline harmony, and how rhythm creates energy and emotion. Even small breakthroughs here can dramatically improve a student's ability to learn songs and play with others.

Students come away with a "map" of music that helps them learn faster, communicate with other musicians, and appreciate what makes a song hit emotionally. It's a foundational course for performers, songwriters, and curious listeners alike.

Key Points

Learn core concepts: rhythm, scales, intervals, chords, harmony, structure
Develop ear skills: recognize patterns, hear chord movement, internalize rhythm
Apply theory to real songs (so it feels practical, not abstract)
Communicate better with other musicians using shared theory language

What You'll Learn

1

Core seminar + guided practice

2

Student-led research and writing

3

Feedback loops and revision cycles

4

Portfolio-ready final deliverable

Choose Your Path

Select the level of support that works best for your learning style and goals.

Just the Course

Music Theory 101

$16

per session

$224 for 14 sessions

- Live online instruction
- Interactive coursework
- Community Q&A

Pod Learning

$36

per course

- Online or In-person
- Small group cohorts
- Feedback on submissions
- Weekly live sessions

Select a Pod

1:1 Enrichment

$58

starting at

- Dedicated coaching
- Custom pacing plan
- Partner instructors nationwide

Join a Pod

Pods are small learning groups that meet regularly to work through the course together. Choose a rigor level and schedule that fits your needs.

Pod enrollment is coming soon! Sign up for a course tier to get notified when pods are available.