Let's Talk Resources

Hi,

I am wondering about good books/software programs/websites (or affordable online courses) etc. that teach theory and harmony concepts (from A to Z, and cover the advanced and obscure concepts as well). Basically a complete, user-friendly way to ground one's theory/harmony skills - ideally heavy on the information rather than the exercises, but if the information is there, exercises are great. I'm looking for the authoritative manual on the subject, if it's out there. If you've heard tell of something like this, throw it my way and I'll be much obliged!

And while we are on the subject, I could use some good resources on composition (particularly arranging and orchestration) as I am preparing to take a program in the winter and would like to do some in-depth study besides analyzing scores.

get as many different books as you can!

composition books should only focus on composition. not arranging nor orchestration! Get three books on harmony - three on composition - three on orchestration. You should of course start of with one in each field.

Ooo though if you're still about, there's the very nice Principles of Orchestration online + examples series that'd I'd reccomend to almost everyone!! :D

There's also the orchestration series Tokke's doing over here at YC - check it out!!

get a tutor mate, or a music school. its the best way to present your music and talent for beginners, unless you're already a working musician with contacts and all.

books require you to be your own mentor, which is a bit contradiction, to many people. again, unless you're already feel mature enough and confident that you can do things and learn ***properly*** by yourself, without cheating yourself because of laziness(as most normal people :happy: )

hehe, just out of interest, do you get tutoring J?? (or been to a music school)

you bet, it was ten years ago,on a whole different game for 3 exciting years, and i just got a few orchestrating lessons from a master in my country. i wouldn't go back to school at my age though.

Sweet!! That musta been fun. I always think of a Professor marching in with a whole pack of scores and books on orchestration ;) ...

On a side note, I'm going to start getting free piano lessons when I get back to school, yay!! It's something to look forward to :D