The 5 Best Music Theory Books Worth Reading If You're An Artist

Understanding music theory can elevate your songwriting, composition, and overall musicianship as an artist. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting, delving into music theory can unlock new creative possibilities. Here’s a curated list of the five best music theory books worth your time, each offering unique insights to enhance your artistry.

1. “The Complete Musician” by Steven G. Laitz

This comprehensive book is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of music theory. "The Complete Musician" covers a wide range of topics, including harmony, melody, and rhythm, while integrating ear training and keyboard skills. It’s designed for beginners and advanced musicians, making it a versatile resource.

Why It’s Great:

• A comprehensive approach to theory and practice.

• Engaging exercises that reinforce concepts.

• Ideal for self-study or as a course textbook.
  

2. “Tonal Harmony” by Stefan Kostka and Dorothy Payne

“Tonal Harmony” is a staple in music education, known for its clear explanations and practical examples. This book focuses on traditional Western harmony, guiding readers through the principles of chord progression and voice leading. It’s particularly useful for composers and songwriters looking to create rich harmonic textures.

Why It’s Great:

• In-depth exploration of harmony and voice leading.

• Extensive exercises and musical examples.

• Useful for both composition and analysis.
  

3. “The Jazz Theory Book” by Mark Levine

If you're interested in jazz or improvisation, "The Jazz Theory Book" is essential. Mark Levine presents complex jazz concepts in an accessible way, covering everything from basic scales to advanced harmonic techniques. The book is filled with practical exercises and real-world examples, perfect for musicians looking to expand their jazz vocabulary.

Why It’s Great:

• Comprehensive coverage of jazz theory.

• Clear explanations with practical applications.

• Great for both aspiring and experienced jazz musicians.
  

4. “How to Write Songs on Guitar” by Rikky Rooksby

Rikky Rooksby’s book is an invaluable resource for artists who primarily play guitar. "How to Write Songs on Guitar" focuses on songwriting, combining music theory with practical tips for crafting melodies and harmonies. It’s an excellent guide for guitarists looking to enhance their songwriting skills.

Why It’s Great:

• Specifically tailored for guitarists and songwriters.

• Provides actionable strategies for writing songs.

• Encourages creativity while grounding you in theory.
  

5. “Music Theory for Dummies” by Michael Pilhofer and Holly Day

Don’t let the title fool you; this book is a fantastic introduction to music theory for anyone, regardless of skill level. "Music Theory for Dummies" breaks down complex concepts into digestible sections, making it a great starting point. The book covers everything from notation to chords, rhythms, and scales, with a friendly and approachable tone.

Why It’s Great:

• Easy-to-understand explanations of music theory concepts.

• Practical exercises and online resources for further learning.

• Suitable for complete beginners and those looking to refresh their knowledge.
  

Investing time in music theory can greatly enhance your abilities as an artist. Each of these books offers unique perspectives and tools that can help you understand the underlying principles of music. Whether you want to improve your songwriting, deepen your compositional skills, or explore new genres, these resources will guide you on your musical journey.