Introduction to Music Theory

Class Syllabus – Mr. Wilson

I. Intro

This course introduces the fundamentals of writing and notation. The course is designed
primarily for students planning to study music at the post high school level, or who wish to
further their understanding of the fundamentals of music theory. Throughout the 9 weeks,
we will apply this newfound knowledge to playing instruments like guitars and pianos, as
well as within basic music composition.

II. Schedule (Tentative)

a. Week 1
i. The Staff, Notes & Pitches
ii. Treble Clef & Bass Clef
iii. The Grand Staff & Ledger Lines
b. Week 2
i. Note/Rest Values
ii. Measure, Bar Line & Double Bar Line
iii. 4/4 Time Signature & Note Values
c. Week 3
i. 2/4 & 3/4 Time Signatures
ii. Dotted Half Note
iii. Ties & Slurs
d. Week 4
i. Repeat Sign, 1st & 2nd Endings
ii. Eighth Notes/Rests
iii. Dotted Quarter
e. Week 5
i. Dynamics
ii. Tempo
iii. Articulation
iv. D.C.,D.S., Coda & Fine
f. Week 6
i. Flats & Sharps
ii. Naturals
iii. Whole Steps, Half Steps & Enharmonic Notes
g. Week 7
i. Tetrachords & Major Scales
ii. The Sharp Scales – G & D Major
 iii. The Flat Scales – F& Bb Major
iv. Key Signatures
h. Week 8
i. Remaining Major Scales & Key Signatures
ii. Chromatic Scale
iii. Intervals
iv. Circle of 5ths
i. Week 9
i. Perfect & Major Intervals
ii. Minor Intervals
iii. Augmented & Diminished Intervals
iv. Solfege & Transposition

III. Grading

Participation (90 pts) – 10 points per week for participation and attendance.
Quizzes (160 pts) – 20 points per quiz.
Activities (90 pts) – 5 points per activity, ~2 graded activities per week.
Final Exam (60 pts) – A final assessment of the course.
Total Points – 400

IV. Classroom Rules

1. Be respectful!
a. Treat books/instruments/materials with care
b. Respect the teacher and follow instructions
c. Keep cell phones away during instruction and quizzes
d. Do not touch instruments without permission
e. No foul language or derogative speech
f. Do not lean on music stands
2. Be prepared!
a. Bring a pencil and paper with you to class every day
b. Complete assignments on time
c. Make up missed days and work within one week
3. Be responsible!
a. Study for quizzes
b. Keep track of your grade
c. Be on time for class
d. Pay attention during lectures
e. You must have a signed agenda to leave the classroom
f. In addition to the agenda, you must sign out in the in/out binder
g. I will NOT sign your agenda to go to the vending machines