Ask Us a Music Theory Question!

Ask A Question at MyMusicTheory.com has been quiet for a while. We've had lots of interesting questions, but not many that are not too simple (e.g. "Can you please write out G major Bass clef for me?") or too advanced ("What's the next step after grade 8?") for the main Ask page on the site.

We try to answer all questions by email so please fire away if something is niggling you. Please check the site search first though, as often the answers are right there in the first place!

Here's the latest question sent to questions@mymusictheory.com:

When a song is written in a specific key signature e.g. C Major with no sharps or flats, what rule in music theory allows the piece of music to contain sharps and flats?

When those sharps or flats appear in the piece of music doesn't that indicate the use of a different key other than what's shown? Thank you. Steve. (19th December 2009)



Well Steve, there are 3 main reasons for using accidentals:

1) Chromaticism
2) Modulation &
3) Minor Keys

To read the FULL answer to this question, complete with musical examples in score and audio, visit http://www.mymusictheory.com/ask.html

Do you have a question for us? Ask here on the blog, or email us at questions@mymusictheory.com

Lessons in Figured Bass (Grade 6)

The ABRSM introduces Figured Bass to the music theory exams at Grade Six.

Lots of people are daunted by Figured Bass - it looks strange, like a code; it seems complicated and even unmusical. The system of numbers seems impenetratable to many.

But help is at hand! Mymusictheory.com has finally got round to publishing the first lesson on figured bass for grade 6 theory students, and the good news is, it's not hard! :o)

Figured Bass Lesson

As usual, we've adopted a step-by-step approach - gently introducing you to Figured Bass, bit by bit. Nothing is too complicated and everything is explained clearly with examples.

Take a look at the lesson and let us know what you think!

Next to be published will be a step-by-step realisation of a Figured Bass, so you can see exactly how to tackle the question in your Grade VI exam and maximise your marks!