Music Theory
Music theory is the backbone of all music studies. Understanding proper notation, key signatures, intervals, chord progressions, and more all allow for the best possible outcome in the pursuit of playing any instrument. In most situations, private instrumental teachers are forced to spend precious lesson time on these elements - which is why it is vital students to take Theory as a separate course allowing a more in-depth understanding of music, as well freeing up their instrumental teachers to focus on what they are most passionate about - teaching students to play the instrument!
LMA Core Theory courses are divided into groupings of levels 1-10, starting from the very beginner level, through expert compositional level courses. Beyond the 4 core offerings, there are also elective courses which can be taken if students pass out of earlier levels.
Every student must take a placement exam in order to be enrolled in the appropriate level.
Music Theory 100
An introductory course covering levels 1-3 perfect for people who have never taken Theory. Subjects covered include introduction to basic pitch and notation, beginner scales and keys, fundamental rhythm identification, chords, and melody writing.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks
Music Theory 200
An intermediate course covering levels 4-6 building on all the topics covered in Theory 100. Topics covered will include more complex rhythms and chord identification, continuing the introduction of key signatures, as well as chromaticism and melodic notation.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks
Music Theory 300
An intermediate to advanced course covering levels 7-8 which continues the in depth exploration of all major and minor key signatures, chordal progressions including dominant 7th chords, transpositions, double dotted rhythms, and more.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks
Music Theory 400
Advanced level theory covering levels 9-10. This is a course which covers much of what will be expected in college level theory level courses including fugue analysis, understanding all cadences, melodic composition above given base lines, and more.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks
Composition
For advanced students who have passed the Music Theory 400 exam, and are interested in pursuing creative composition of original material.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks
Arranging/Instrumentation
A course dedicated to the art of taking original music and arranging it for different instrumentations across varying genres. Ex. taking a pop song and arranging it for string quartet.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks
Jazz Theory
A course for students interested in broadening their understanding of theory beyond the classical sound spectrum. Explores topics such as harmonization, complex chordal structuring and voicing, improvisation and more.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks
Film/Video Game Scoring
A course dedicated to the art of accompanying and accentuate what one sees on the screen with music. A highly prolific industry with many opportunities to build an exciting career or side passion.
Credits: 5
Course Duration: 12 weeks