Practical Theory, Volume 1: Book

This series refuses to treat theory as separate from playing. Students encounter concepts in the workbook, then immediately apply them in the lab or rehearsal, which means the knowledge actually sticks. The structure across three volumes allows you to pace theory instruction alongside your ensemble's growing technical demands without ever feeling rushed.

Band directors, orchestra teachers, and general music instructors looking for a structured, self-contained theory curriculum that works in classroom settings. Students benefit from the flexible approach, whether they complete workbook pages in class or review concepts in a computer lab.

• Assign workbook sections in sync with repertoire your ensemble is learning; a lesson on key signatures lands better when students are sight-reading a new march in Bb.
• Use the software diskettes as a station rotation tool during sectional rehearsal time, freeing you to work with small groups while others reinforce concepts independently.
• Space lessons across the academic year rather than frontloading them; 28 lessons spread methodically prevents theory fatigue and gives concepts time to take root.

Start Volume 1 in the fall as your theory foundation, advancing through the series in sync with your ensemble repertoire difficulty. The workbook format works equally well as in-class instruction or independent homework, making it adaptable to how you structure your program.

• Music notation fundamentals and staff reading
• Key signatures and their identification
• Interval recognition and construction
• Scale structure and chord building
• Basic harmonic analysis
• Time signatures and rhythmic notation