[HANASHIR:1630] Re: music theory

[Rglauber <Rglauber...>]

I'm in agreement with those who favor developing one's music theory abilities,
both in terms of reading, and harmony.  It doesn't make you a better person,
but what it will do is give you the ability to COMMUNICATE with other
musicians.  Quite simply, it is our language, and if you don't speak the
language, then you are limited in your ability to interact with those who do.

One of the problems in learning music theory is the fact that it is usually
presented in a very traditional framework, one that is not really suited to a
songleader's needs.  As this one author (I can't remember his name, sorry)
stated...."Learning music theory will prepare you to get a gig.....in Germany
in the 18th century"

I'd be in favor of sharing some "practical music theory" ideas which are
specifically geared to the work that we do.  I could name a few areas that I
think people should have familiarity with, and I'd be interested to see other
people's ideas.

For the purposes of being a Jewish music educator in 1998-99, one should know
about these areas (among others)  : 

The difference between major and minor  (scales and chords)
The concept of  "relative minor"   ie  A minor is the "relative minor" of C
major
Basic chord progressions in major and minor keys
Comfortable singing ranges for girls, boys, women, and men
How to describe and utilize musical dynamics
Reading melody lines 
Rhythm skills, syncopation, ostinato patterns etc
Transposition

There could be quite a few more but this is where I would begin.  If there is
interest in discussing these topics, I'm quite happy to share what I know.

Rich Glauber

PS to my "ii  V  I"  interest group.  I held off explaining that for the time
being, because it didn't feel totally germane to the topic of Jewish Music.
It's more about American popular music.  But hey, I said that I would explain
it, and I will do so tomorrow.  I just needed to focus on Jewish music
first....