Since you will see the language of written music throughout this book, you must be able to read it. Using the accompanying CD will reinforce many of the concepts, but there is no way around an inability to read notation. You may be thinking, “I can read just fine,” but how well do you read in other clefs?

Music theory explores what has been done in other music in order to reach a greater understanding overall. You will need to read in multiple clefs, since standard notation uses treble and bass clefs at a minimum and often throws in alto clef, too. Here is a basic review to help you make sense of what you are reading. There is also a somewhat detailed review of rhythms because it can be a difficult concept to understand; even if you know how to decipher the notes on a staff, you may still be uneasy with the counting aspect. If this chapter is already scaring you, try picking up The Everything®Reading Music Book and keeping that around; it will help you greatly in understanding this material!