Fundamentals of Music Theory
University of Edinburgh
This course, revised in 2022, will introduce you to the theory of music, providing you with the skills needed to read and write Western music notation, as well as to understand, analyse, and listen informedly. It will cover material such as pitches and scales, intervals, clefs, rhythm, form, metre and time signatures, phrases and cadences, and basic harmony. This course covers the fundamentals of Western music theory, from the absolute basics to some more advanced concepts. As such, it delivers material for beginners and offers much to experienced musicians alike. Learners can apply for Financial Aid directly with Coursera to assist with the cost of accessing the full course and gaining a certificate for successfully completing the course.
More resources on Music Theory
Listening to Music — MUSI 112 (Yale / Open Yale Courses)
23 full video lectures by Professor Craig Wright on how Western music is constructed — rhythm, melody, harmonic progressions, and form. Free. Transforms how you approach any instrument.
Developing Your Musicianship specialization (Berklee / Coursera)
Four courses by George W. Russell Jr. covering major/minor tonalities, chord scales, song forms, and ear training — free to audit individually. A comprehensive musicianship foundation from Berklee.
PianoTV (Allysia Van Betuw)
Beginner-friendly theory integrated with piano learning. ~148K YouTube subscribers, also runs the companion site pianotv.net.
Adam Neely
Deep music theory essays — rhythm, harmony, and form explored with intellectual rigour and rare clarity. ~1.81M subscribers.
Open Music Theory
Learn music theory and analysis with Open Music Theory, a comprehensive and accessible online course. Explore harmony, form, and more!
Introduction to Music Theory
Learn music theory fundamentals! This free Alison course covers scales, chords, rhythm, and notation. Start composing today!