Music is one of the most unique and beautiful arts there is. It’s a universal language that we can all understand, no matter where we come from or what our cultural background may be. But as with any language, learning the basics is the first step in understanding how to speak it fluently. In this blog article, we will explore 10 basic and advanced music theory terms you need to know as a songwriter. From intervals to mode to key, read on to start your music education today!
What is Music Theory?
When you’re writing a song, it helps to understand the basic music theory concepts that underlie its melody and harmony. These concepts include intervals, scales, intervals in scales, chords and chord progressions, and more. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some key terms and concepts related to music theory.
- Intervals:
In music theory, an interval is a distance between two notes in a scale or any musical sequence. For example, the interval between the notes C and D in a scale is a semitone (one-half step), while the interval between G and A in a scale is an octave (two whole steps). The distance between two notes can be measured in any note name (e.g., semitone, half step, whole step) or numeral system (e.g., cents, semitones). - Scales:
A scale is a set of twelve notes that are played together as steps on one or more instruments (or sometimes just sung). Each note in a scale is called a scale degree or semitone. The name of each scale comes from the first letter of its corresponding note: A = 1st degree; B = 2nd degree; etc. Scales are always listed starting from the lowest note (i.e., C) and working up to the highest note (i.e., G). - Intervals in Scales:
An interval is a distance between two consecutive notes within a given scale. For example, the interval between the notes C and D in the C major scale is a semitone. The interval between the notes E and F in the same scale is a fourth (or fifth) because these notes are two semitones.
10 Basic & Advanced Music Theory Terms You Need to Know as a Songwriter
Below are the 10 Basic & Advanced Music Theory Terms You Need to Know as a songwriter:
1. Tonality
Tonality in music is the organization of sound around a central note, called the tonic. It is a system that organizes the notes of a musical scale into a hierarchy of relationships, with the tonic note at the top of the hierarchy.
In Western music, tonality has been the dominant system of the musical organization since the Baroque period. The tonic note is usually the first and last note of a piece of music or a section of music, and the other notes of the scale are arranged around it in a specific pattern of intervals, or distances between the notes. This pattern of intervals is known as a key, and each key has a distinct emotional or expressive character.
Tonality is an important aspect of musical composition and performance, and it affects the way listeners perceive and respond to music. Changes in tonality can create a sense of tension, release, or resolution, and can convey different emotions or moods. Tonality also plays a role in melody, harmony, and form, and can be used to create a sense of unity and coherence in a musical work.
There are a few fundamental tonalities that most songs will fall into. These tonalities are known as the major or minor keys, and they correspond to specific sets of rules about how to build chords.
The key of C Major is the most commonly used key for pop and rock music. In C Major, every chord is comprised of at least one note from the C scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, B). Chords in other keys will also contain notes from other scales, but there will be some notes that are missing. For example, a chord in the key of E Minor would only contain notes from the E scale (E, F#, G#, A#), and a chord in the key of G Major would only contain notes from the G scale (G#, A#, B1).
To write a song in any given key, you simply have to know which chords are in that key and which notes go with each chord. Once you know this information for one key, it’s easy to figure out which chords go with other keys by simply reversing the order of the notes in each chord. For example: If a song is written in the key of C Major and you want to transpose it to the key of F Major, all you have to do is reverse all of the chords so that F becomes C and C becomes F. Chords and Chord Progressions
There are three main types of tonality:
- Functional tonality: In functional tonality, chords are built based on their function (i.e. what they do in the context of the song). For example, a chord in the key of C Major might be built on the C major scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, B), but it might also be built on a G major scale (G, A, Bb, C#, D#). This type of tonality is used in classical music and some jazz styles.
- Centric tonality: In centric tonality, chords are built around a central tonal center (usually the root note of the song). For example, in the key of C Major, all chords are based around the notes C, D, E. If you want to change the key of a song to the key of G Major, all you have to do is shift the root note up a semitone (G becomes A).
- Atonal tonality: In atonal tonality, chords are never based on any specific notes. Instead, they’re constructed using random intervals and combinations of notes. This type of tonality is used in modern classical music and electronic music.
- Modal tonality: In modal tonality, chords are based on specific modes (i.e. scales) of music. For example, in the key of C Major, all chords are based on the Ionian mode (I-III-IV-V-I), but in the key of G Minor all chords are based on the Dorian mode (Dorian I-II-III-IV-V).
One common way to write songs in different keys is by using modal tonality. In modal tonality, every song is written in one of several specific modes, and the chords that are used to write the song are based on that mode. For example, in the key of C Major, all chords are based on the Ionian mode (I-III-IV-V-I). To write a song in the key of G Minor, all you have to do is shift the root note up a semitone (G becomes A).
2. Harmony
Harmony is the quality of having different elements come together in a pleasing or cohesive way. In music, harmony refers to the simultaneous combination of sounds, often multiple notes played or sung at the same time, that creates a sense of chordal richness and depth. In art, harmony can refer to the use of color, shape, and other visual elements to create a sense of balance and unity.
Harmony can also refer to a state of peaceful coexistence or agreement between people, groups, or nations. It is the state of being in agreement, cooperation, or mutual support, and can involve a sense of unity, understanding, and goodwill. In this sense, harmony is often used to describe relationships or interactions that are free of conflict and characterized by a sense of balance, respect, and collaboration.
3. Rhythm
Rhythm is a fundamental aspect of music that refers to the pattern of sounds and silences over time. It is what gives music its sense of movement and forward motion. Rhythm is created by the duration of notes, the placement of accents, and the use of rests and pauses.
In Western music, rhythm is typically organized into regular, recurring units called beats. These beats are grouped together into larger units called measures or bars. The duration of each beat is typically divided into two or three equal parts, giving rise to the basic rhythmic patterns known as the duple and triple meter.
In addition to meter, rhythm can also be characterized by syncopation, which involves placing accents on off-beats or unexpected parts of the measure. Syncopation can add a sense of tension and excitement to the music.
Overall, rhythm is a crucial element of music that can contribute to its emotional impact and create a sense of movement and energy.
Rhythm is one of the most essential elements of music. Without it, a song would sound pretty pointless. Rhythm can be found in almost every song, whether it’s the beat that’s being played on the instruments or the way words are sung. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most important terms related to rhythm and give you some tips on how to use them in your songs.
- Beats per Minute (BPM):
The first term we’re going to discuss is beats per minute (BPM). BPM is simply how many beats are being played per minute. It’s usually measured in time signature notation (4/4, 3/4, 2/2, etc.), and it can be helpful when figuring out how to sync your beats with other instruments or by rhythmically singing yourself. - Time Signatures:
Another important term related to rhythm is time signatures. A time signature indicates how many beats there are per minute, as well as which note value takes up each beat (e.g 4/4 means there are four beats per measure and each beat has a quarter note value). Time signatures come in lots of different varieties, but the most common ones are 4/4 and 3/4. When writing a song in any time signature, always make sure you know what notes fall on which beats! - Syncopation:
Syncopation is a technique used to add an extra layer of rhythm to a song.
4. Chords
When you’re writing a song, it can be helpful to understand music theory terminology. This article provides a basic overview of some key terms you may use when writing songs.
- Chord: When you hear the word “chord,” what comes to mind? Chords are musical notes that are played together to create a melody or song. In simplest terms, a chord is simply two or more notes played together. There are many different types of chords, and each has its own sound and meaning.
For example, the chord C major consists of the notes C (the first note), D (the second note), E (the third note), and G (the fourth note). The chord sounds deep and powerful because all four notes are played simultaneously. - Scale: A scale is a set of twelve notes arranged in three groups of six tones each. You can think of a scale as a blueprint for creating melodies. When you play a scale, you’re playing the same sequence of notes over and over again, but with different pitches.
For example, the basic C major scale consists of the following notes: C, D, E♭, F♯, G♮,, A♭,. . . The next time you play this scale starting on G♮ instead of A♭, it will sound different because G♮ lies above A♭ on the musical keyboard. This is called intervals between keys (or degrees of dissonance), and it’s a key part of music theory. - Chord progression: A chord progression is a series of chords that are played together in a specific order. The order typically depends on the genre of music you’re writing (e.g. pop, rock, etc.), but it can also be based on the mood or feeling of the song. For example, in a sad song, you might want to use chords that create a feeling of sadness (like minor chords in the key of C).
- Harmony: Harmony is the combination of notes from different chords to create a harmonic sound. When you listen to a song, you’ll often hear certain chords being played together more than others. This is called harmonic content, and it’s one of the most important elements of music theory.
Tonality: Tonality is the basic melodic structure of a song—for example, in the key of C Major, all chords are based around the notes C, D, E. This basic structure is always present no matter what other variations occur throughout the song (i.e. modulations).
5. Melodic Lines
In order to write great songs, you need to be familiar with music theory. This includes understanding basic melodic lines and how they are constructed. In this article, we will discuss the following concepts: major and minor keys, chord progression, triads, seventh chords, and more.
- Major and Minor Keys:
Most popular songs are written in a specific key. This is usually based on the composer’s mood or theme. Songs in major keys are generally happy and upbeat, while those in minor keys are typically more subdued. For example, the song “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen is written in a major key but features a melancholy main melody in the minor key.
- Chord Progression:
A chord progression is simply a series of chords played one after the other. It provides harmonic structure to your song and can help to create a mood or feeling. Chord progressions can be quite simple or very complex, but they all have one thing in common: each chord follows one of the fundamental rules of harmony (called “chords”). These rules govern how notes interact with one another within a chord structure. To learn more about these rules and how to apply them to your own music writing, check out our guide on building chord progressions step-by-step.
- Triads:
A triad is simply three notes played together (aeiou). Triads are the foundation of many popular melodic lines used in pop/rock music.
6. Form
1. Form Basics
A form is a specific structure or pattern that a song follows. There are four main forms of popular music: the AABA format, the AABB format, the CAB format, and the x2A format.
The AABA format is the most common form in pop and rock music. It consists of four verses and a chorus. The first verse is typically sung by the lead singer, and the other three verses are sung by different members of the group. The chorus usually features all of the singers together.
The AABB format is similar to the AABA format, but it has one extra verse. It also has a bridge between the second and third verses, which are usually sung by a different member of the group.
The CAB format is similar to the AABB format, but it has two extra verses. The final verse of a CAB song always contains a solo section for one of the singers.
The x2A form is rarer than any of the other formats, but it’s especially common in electronic music. It consists of two halves (or “epics”), each with its own chorus.
7. Tonal Signatures
When you’re writing a song, it’s important to have a firm understanding of the basic music theory terms that govern the harmonic language of music. These include tonal signatures, key signatures, and intervals.
Tonal Signatures:
A tonal signature is simply a set of notes that are used to identify a type of chord progression or melody. For example, in the key of C major, the tonal signature would include the notes C, D, E, F#m, G#m, and A#m. This means that any chords or melodies based on these notes will be in the key of C major.
Key Signature:
A key signature is simply a number at the beginning of a piece of music that identifies which note(s) are used to play in the key indicated by that number. In most cases, there are only two keys (C major and D minor), but sometimes more is indicated (e.g., maj7 in A minor). When more than two keys are involved, they’re usually indicated by numbers above or below the staff (e.g., 6/9 indicates “sixths below” – which means all chords written within this range will be in the key of A minor).
Intervals:
An interval is simply a distance between two musical notes. The smallest interval is called a semitone (or half step), while the largest interval is called an octave. Many intervals can be combined together to create larger intervals (e.g., an interval of a fifth combined with an interval of a fourth creates an interval of a third).
8. Scales and Modes
- Scales and modes are two fundamental concepts in music theory that every songwriter should know. A scale is a set of notes that are played together in ascending or descending order, and a mode is a particular scale with a specific set of intervals between its notes.
- There are many different scales and modes available to use in your songs, and it’s important to understand which one is best suited for the specific genre or style you’re writing in. For example, the minor key is often associated with sad or depressing music, so a minor scale would be a good choice for writing songs in this genre.
- Once you’ve chosen a scale or mode, it’s important to learn how to use it properly. Scales and modes can be used to create harmonic properties within your songs, so it’s important to understand how they work before you start incorporating them into your compositions.
9. Musical Notation
Basic music notation includes the written symbols that indicate the pitches, rhythms, and chord progressions of a song. Advanced music notation can include intricate details such as tempo markings, key signatures, and other instrumentation.
Pitch: The basic unit of sound in music. Pitch is measured in terms of frequency or cycles per second (Hz). This can be thought of as how high or low a sound is pitched.
Rhythm: The basic unit of time in music. Rhythm is measured in beats per minute (BPM). This can be thought of as the “beat” or pulse at which the music moves.
Chord: A series of notes played together to create a melody or harmony. Chords are often written on staffs with Roman numerals indicating the position of each note within the chord.
10. Cadence
Cadence is the pattern of strong and weak beats in a musical phrase or sentence. It’s important to Cadence because it helps keep a song moving, creating an engaging rhythm. There are two main types of cadences: Imitative and Action/Action-Reaction.
Imitative cadences involve one chord following the same pattern as the previous chord. For example, in the progression C-E-G, the first two chords are in an imitative cadence. The next chord (G) is not in the same pattern, so it’s called an “action” chord. The term “action” refers to how forceful G is—it’s not just there for decoration! This type of cadence is common in ballads and other slower songs.
Action/Action-Reaction cadences are more exciting because they involve two different chords going at once. For example, in the progression C-E-G, after G comes D-F#-A#m7. D is an action chord because it clashes with E (the regular chord before it) dramatically. F# is an action chord because it doesn’t follow the melody quite as closely as A#m7 does. This type of cadence is common in rock songs and other faster tunes.
11. Scale
When it comes to learning music theory, there are a few terms you’ll want to be familiar with. This post will provide a basic overview of two of the more important music theory terms: scale and key.
Scale is a musical structure or format that is used frequently in songs. It’s made up of intervals (two notes separated by a certain number of semitones), and can be used to create beautiful melodies. Every song has at least one scale, but sometimes your song will use different scales in different parts. For example, in the key of A major, the scale used most often is the Ionian mode.
But sometimes you’ll want to change things up a bit and use a different scale for a different part of your song. That’s where the key comes in! The key is essentially a code that tells your ear which scale to use when you hear a song. There are 12 keys in all, and each one has its own unique set of scales that sound great together. So if you’re writing a love song in the key of A major, make sure to use the Ionian mode as your primary Scale, but switch it up for the chorus using the Aeolian mode!
Both scale and key are incredibly important when it comes to learning music theory, so be sure to pay attention!
12. Arpeggio
Arpeggios are a crucial part of any musician’s toolkit, and you should be familiar with the basics and advanced terminology associated with them. Here are some essential things to know:
A basic arpeggio is made up of notes played consecutively one after the other. To create an arpeggio in your song, use the notes in the key your song is written in as starting points, then work your way up or down the scale. Be sure to include enough variety within each note so that your arpeggio doesn’t come off sounding too sameness.
Advanced arpeggios are made up of more than one note, and can be very complex. They can be used to create rhythmic effects or add a layer of complexity to a melody. Again, variety is key here – make sure each note in your arpeggio has its own distinctive sound.
13. Inversion
- Inversion is a term used to describe the reversal of the usual order of chords in a song. For example, if you typically play A-B-C-D-E-F in a song, inverting the order might be D-E-A-B. This can create some pretty interesting new chord progressions and rhythms.
- Another use for inversion is when you want to change the tonality or key of a song. For example, if you normally write songs in a major key (e.g., C Major), inverting the order of the chords could make your song feel more minor (e.g., D Minor).
- Inversion can also add an extra layer of complexity to your songwriting by creating new chord progressions and melodies that would not be possible without it. So don’t be afraid to experiment with inversion – it can really help make your music stand out!
Also Read: How to Write a Song Like Bohemian Rhapsody – Guides For Songwriters
14. Interval
Interval is simply the distance between two notes on the staff. It’s measured in beats or groupings of three. The smaller the interval, the closer the two notes are. For example, a semitone is one-half of a whole step (two intervals), while a major third is three-quarters of a step (four intervals).
Although intervals are essential to music theory, they’re not always easy to understand. That’s where terms like “microtone” and “macro tone” come into play. A microtone is a tiny bit smaller than a semitone, while a macro tone is significantly bigger than a semitone.
Knowing how to use intervals can help you write more melodic and harmonic music. For example, by adding microtones to your melodies, you can create rich and textured sounds. And by using larger intervals, you can create dramatic climaxes and sonic moments.
In short, interval knowledge is essential for any musician looking to write songs that sound their best. Be sure to get acquainted with these basic and advanced music theory terms!
15. Dynamics
- Dynamics is the term used to describe the intensity, volume, and pace of a song. It can be applied to both vocal and instrumental music.
- A dynamic range is the difference between the softest and loudest sounds in a piece of music.
- Pitch is how high or low a sound is in terms of musical notes.
- Harmony is the use of chords and melodies together to create a musical composition.
- Meter refers to the way that time is measured in music, usually using 4/4 time or 6/8 time.
Conclusion
In this article, we have covered 10 basic and advanced music theory terms that you need to know as a songwriter. These terms will help you understand how music works, what chords are and how they are used in popular songs and some of the more advanced concepts behind melody writing. By understanding these concepts, you will be able to better write your own songs and make them sound their best. Keep learning!
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