16 Best Music Theory Courses to Learn in 2023

• Author: Manno Notermans
• Published: September 27, 2023

Understanding the basics of music is like having a superpower that enhances your skills in songwriting, guitar playing, piano playing, music production, and overall musicianship. It’s like unlocking a secret code that reveals the magic behind every melody, rhythm, and harmony. 

But we get it; learning music theory can initially be overwhelming. With all those concepts and their seemingly unrelated nature, it’s easy to feel confused and frustrated. But fear not! We have a solution for you: the best music theory courses out there! 

These top music theory online courses are designed by super knowledgeable educators who have cracked the code and want to share their wisdom with you. They’ve broken down the complex stuff into simple, step-by-step video lessons that will make your learning journey a breeze. 

Whether you’re a beginner or someone seeking advanced knowledge, these courses have got you covered. So, get ready to unravel the mysteries of musical notes and embark on an exciting adventure with the top notch music theory courses around. Get ready to rock!

Before selecting our best picks for music theory classes online, we recommend checking out music composition, Carnatic music, Rock guitar, and Ableton live courses to understand further how music is structured and composed.

We’re sure you’re looking forward to the list of the nine top music theory courses – here are the topic picks!

List of Best Courses to Learn Music Theory Online

Now let’s explore the best online music theory courses with our detailed analysis. Investigate an extensive set of music theory courses covering everything from beginner basics to advanced concepts. Elevate your musical knowledge and skills from the comfort of your own home. So, let’s dive in!

Check out our nine best picks of online music theory lessons that can help you understand the language of music!

Best Music Theory Courses	Platforms	Duration	Cost	Flexible Schedule
Best Course to Learn Music Theory Basics	Earmaster	4 – 6 weeks	$6	8.5/9
Practical Music Theory Course for Guitar	Justinguitar	14h	$9.99/mo $89.99/y	8.3/9
Most Affordable Online Music Theory Class	Berklee	12-week	$1,265	8.8/9
Complete Course for Grades 1 to 5 Music Theory	Mmcourses	Flexiable Schedule	$184	8.5/9
Most Valued Introductory Music Theory Class	Conted	14 Week	$310	8.9/9
Comprehensive Course for Music Theory	Thinkspace	12h	$49	8.6/9
Self Pace Online Music Theory Class	Coursera	11h	$49	8.7/9
An In-Depth and Straight Forward Approach to Understanding Music	Udemy	5h 3m	$17	9/9
A Short Lesson to Learn Basics of Music	Udemy	1h 52m	$17	8.5/9
6 Weeks Music Theory Course	Edx	3.5h	$49	8/9
Popular Music Theory Class	Yalemusic	8/9	Not Available	8/9
Bestseller Music Theory Course with Certification	Udemy	12h	$16	8/9
Top Rated Class of Music Theory	Coursera	22h	$59.00	8/9
13 Hours Musical Theory Class for Intermediates	Coursera	4 weeks	$16.00	8/9
Fundamentals of Music Theory for Beginner Level	Coursera	12h	$9.99	8.5/9
Learning Universal Music Theory Principles	Udemy	2h 58m	$9.99	8/9

Although various e-learning sites claim they offer the best music theory classes, that is untrue. It is hard to find online courses to help you understand the subject.

This is why our pick of music theory courses is the best. So, without any further delay, let’s start the journey of knowledge and music.

1. Best Course to Learn Music Theory Basics – Earmaster

Embark on an exciting musical journey with the EarMaster Music Theory Online Course. This most affordable music theory program, with a self-paced duration of approximately 4 – 6 weeks, is designed to deepen your understanding of music theory and enhance your musical skills. This course brings music theory to life with a user-friendly interface and interactive lessons.

Priced at $5.5 for a one-month subscription, the EarMaster Music Theory Online Course offers excellent value for aspiring musicians and music enthusiasts. 

Dive into a wealth of content that covers a wide range of topics, including scales, chords, intervals, rhythm, ear training, and more. With engaging exercises and quizzes, you’ll develop your musical ear and strengthen your theoretical knowledge.

The course is designed and developed by a team of music educators and experts at EarMaster. The instructors, led by renowned music educators, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the course. 

Unfortunately, their profiles are not available on the site, but their passion for music theory shines through in the course material, ensuring a high-quality learning experience. Each lesson is presented clearly and concisely, making complex concepts accessible to learners of all levels.

Student reviews highlight the effectiveness of this course. One student praised, 

“The EarMaster Music Theory Online Course has been a game-changer for me. It’s helped me understand music on a deeper level and improved my overall musicianship.”

With its comprehensive curriculum, user-friendly interface, experienced instructors, and positive student feedback, the EarMaster Music Theory Online Course earns a solid rating of 8.5 out of 9. 

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Chapter 1. Notation
• Chapter 2. Definitions
• Chapter 3. The Physical Basis
• Chapter 4. Notes and Scales
• Chapter 5. Harmony and Form
• Chapter 6. Challenges

Enroll today and unlock the secrets of music theory, sharpen your ear, and take your musical skills to new heights. Embrace this opportunity to become a more knowledgeable and confident musician!

2. Practical Music Theory Course for Guitar – Justinguitar

Are you looking to build a solid foundation in music theory? Look no further than justinguitar’s Practical Music Theory Course. With its hands-on approach and practical learning techniques, this course is designed to make music theory accessible and enjoyable for all learners.

If you want to learn what is music theory from the basics, then this is the right course for you !? It’s the backbone of understanding how music works. It offers incredible value at just $9.99/month or $89.99/year. With 7 grades of comprehensive content, you’ll learn essential topics like scales, chords, intervals, and progressions. 

This course takes a practical approach in its 14 hours duration, cutting out unnecessary jargon and emphasizing the direct application of theory to your instrument. Gain a solid foundation in the basics of music theory and elevate your musical skills with this affordable and practical course.

Justin Sandercoe, a renowned guitarist and experienced instructor, leads the course. Justin makes learning music theory a breeze with his friendly and engaging teaching style. His vast experience and passion for teaching shine through in each lesson, making complex concepts easy to understand.

Students rave about the effectiveness of this course. One student shared, 

“JustinGuitar’s Practical Music Theory Course is hands down the best music theory resource I’ve come across. It has transformed my playing and opened up a world of possibilities.”

Given its concise yet comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction from Justin Sandercoe, and positive student feedback, we rate justinguitar’s Practical Music Theory Course 8.3 out of 9.

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Notes, Sharps & Flats & Octaves!
• Neck Notes, Tab, Chord & Scale Diagrams
• Major Scale Theory & Key Signatures

Enroll today in this one of the best music theory courses for beginners and unlock the power of music theory to take your playing to the next level. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of music and elevate your musicality!

3. Most Affordable Online Music Theory Class – Berklee

Unlock the secrets of music theory with Berklee College of Music‘s Music Theory 101 course. This online program provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundations of music theory, making it a perfect starting point for beginners or musicians looking to solidify their theoretical knowledge.

Priced at $1,265 for a 12-week duration, this comprehensive music course offers a deep dive into music theory essentials. Explore topics such as scales, chords, intervals, key signatures, and more through interactive lessons and practical exercises. The course materials are meticulously curated by Berklee’s esteemed faculty, ensuring a high-quality learning experience.

A panel of instructors conducts this course, but Paul Schmeling is the principal author and instructor. Your instructor, Professor Paul, is a highly respected music educator with years of experience. 

His clear and concise teaching style makes complex concepts easy to grasp, guiding you through each lesson with clarity and enthusiasm. 

With Professor Schmeling’s expertise, you’ll develop a strong foundation in music theory as well as music composition basics. This is why we recommend that you take a look at the best music composition courses as well.

Student reviews for this course are unfortunately not available on the course page. But given the platform’s repute and faculty profiles, we assure you of its excellence.

Considering its excellent curriculum, expert instruction from Professor Paul, and teaching approach, we rate Berklee College of Music’s Music Theory 101 course 8.8 out of 9. 

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Lesson 1: Rhythm Part I
• Lesson 2: Rhythm Part II
• Lesson 3: Pitch Notation
• Lesson 4: Major Scales
• Lesson 5: Minor Scales
• Lesson 6: Intervals
• Lesson 7: Chords I: Triads
• Lesson 8: Triad Inversions
• Lesson 9: Chords II: Basic Seventh Chords
• Lesson 10: Inversions and Voice Leading of Seventh Chords
• Lesson 11: Using the Lead Sheet
• Lesson 12: Melody Writing

Enroll in this college-level music theory course today to gain a solid understanding of music theory and unlock new possibilities in your musical journey. Take advantage of this chance to learn from one of the most renowned music institutions in the world!

4. Complete Course for Grades 1 to 5 Music Theory (Save 20%) – Mmcourses

MM Courses’ Music Theory Grades 1 to 5 is a comprehensive program designed to help you master the essential concepts of music theory and prepare for graded exams. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your theoretical knowledge, this course provides a structured and systematic approach to learning music theory.

With a price of $184 for lifetime access, this course offers incredible value. Covering music theory topics from Grades 1 to 5, you’ll delve into notation, scales, key signatures, chords, rhythm, and more. The course material is presented in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand and apply to your musical endeavors.

Led by experienced music educator Gareth Green, this course provides expert instruction. Gareth’s passion for teaching, combined with his over 35 years of experience in the field, makes this best music theory course stand out. With his guidance, you’ll gain a solid foundation in music theory and develop the skills necessary for success in graded exams.

Students have found MM Courses’ Music Theory Grades 1 to 5 invaluable in their musical journey. One student shared, 

“I have recently purchased your videos on Music theory as I am currently doing my grade 5 theory. I really like the way you explain things in simple terms. The videos are brilliant.”

Given its flexibility, faculty feedback and course content, we rate MM Courses’ Music Theory Grades 1 to 5 8.5 out of 9.

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Grade 1
  • Rhythm and time values
  • Bar-lines and time signatures
  • Notes on the stave
  • The treble and bass clefs
  • Rests
  • Ties and dots
  • Accidentals
  • Semitones and tones
  • Major keys and scales (C, G, D, and F)
  • Degrees of the scale and intervals
  • Tonic triads
  • Composing an answering rhythm
  • Performance directions
• Grade 2
  • Ledger lines
  • Time signatures (2/2, 3/2, 4/2, 3/8)
  • Major keys and scales (A, B♭ , and E♭)
  • Triplets
  • Minor keys and scales (A, E, and D)
  • Grouping of notes and rests
  • Intervals
  • Composing simple four-bar rhythms
  • Performance directions
• Grade 3
  • Demisemiquavers
  • Major keys and scales with four sharps or flats
  • Beyond two ledger lines
  • Transposition
  • Compound time
  • Minor keys and scales with four sharps or flats
  • Grouping notes and rests
  • Four-bar rhythms
  • Intervals
  • Simple phrase structure
  • Performance directions
• Grade 4
  • Time signatures
  • Alto clef
  • Double sharps and double flats
  • Breves, double dots and duplets
  • Major keys and scales with five sharps or flats
  • Minor keys and scales with five sharps or flats
  • Technical names of notes in diatonic scales
  • Four-bar rhythms
  • Triads and chords on I, IV and V
  • Intervals
  • Writing a rhythm to words
  • The chromatic scale
  • Ornaments
  • Instruments
  • Performance directions
• Grade 5
  • Irregular time signatures
  • Tenor clef
  • Major keys and scales up to six sharps and flats
  • Minor keys and scales up to six sharps and flats
  • Transposition
  • Voices in score
  • Irregular time divisions
  • Intervals
  • Naming chords
  • Composing a melody
  • Ornament
  • Chords at cadential points
  • Instruments and voices
  • Performance directions

Check out this best self-paced music theory course to strengthen your music theory knowledge and build a solid foundation for your musical pursuits. Don’t miss this opportunity to excel in your music theory exams and expand your musical horizons!

5. Most Valued Introductory Music Theory Class – Conted

Immerse yourself in the world of music theory courses with the University of Oxford’s Introduction to Music Theory course. Designed for beginners and music enthusiasts alike, this program offers a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of music theory.

With a duration of 14 weeks, this course provides a structured learning experience. Priced at $310, it offers a valuable opportunity to learn from one of the world’s most prestigious universities. 

Through a series of engaging lessons and interactive activities, you’ll explore topics such as notation, scales, intervals, chords, and musical analysis.

Your instructor, Dr. Peter Copley, is a highly regarded musicologist and educator. With his extensive knowledge and passion for music theory, he guides you through each lesson with clarity and expertise. Dr. Copley’s approachable and engaging teaching style makes complex concepts easily understandable.

Unfortunately, student reviews for this particular course are not available on the website. Still, given the repute of the university and the instructor, we assure you of its excellent content and a great learning experience.

Given its affiliation with the esteemed University of Oxford, expert instruction from Dr. Copley, and positive reputation, we rate the Introduction to Music Theory course 8.9 out of 9. These are, overall, the best music theory lessons based on our detailed analysis.

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Week 1: Clefs and staff notation. Duration of rhythm – note lengths.
• Week 2: Rhythm – dotted notes and rests. Clefs and staff notation – continued.
• Week 3: Scales and keys – I. Rhythm – time signatures.
• Week 4: Rhythm – a grouping of notes. Scales and keys – II.
• Week 5: Scales and keys – III. Rhythm – rests and grouping of notes.
• Week 6: Rhythm – time signatures. Scales and keys – IV.
• Week 7: Scales and keys – V. Rhythm – some more about rests.
• Week 8: Rhythm – more on the grouping of notes. Scales and keys – VI.
• Week 9: Intervals. Rhythm – syncopation.
• Week 10: Intervals continued. Rhythm – bars of unequal length and irregular rhythms.

Enroll in this best music theory course today to embark on a captivating musical journey and gain a solid foundation in music theory. Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions and broaden your understanding of music.

6. Comprehensive Course for Music Theory – Thinkspace

ThinkSpace Education’s Learn Music Theory course is a comprehensive online program designed for composers, producers, and musicians looking to enhance their music theory knowledge. 

This course provides a deep dive into advanced music theory concepts, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to elevate their compositional skills on their journey to becoming music composers.

Priced at $49 for a self-paced, lifetime access enrollment, this course offers excellent value for aspiring composers. With approximately 12 hours of content, you’ll explore harmony, counterpoint, orchestration, and more topics. 

The course provides a well-rounded understanding of music theory, equipping you with the tools to create captivating compositions. If you are wondering what are the best advanced music theory courses, this is one of them.

The course is instructed by a team of experienced composers and educators, ensuring a high level of expertise and guidance throughout your learning journey. Out of those, Guy Mitchelmore and Tom Janes are the most notable.

Their wealth of knowledge and practical experience shines through in the course materials, making complex concepts accessible and applicable to your own compositions.

Student reviews for the Learn Music Theory course are highly positive. One student shared, 

” I love Guy’s approach to teaching… it doesn’t feel like he’s talking down to you, it feels like you’re in the studio with him.”

Considering its comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction from a team of composers, and positive student feedback, we rate ThinkSpace Education’s Learn Music Theory course 8.6 out of 9. 

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• First fundamentals through to advanced concepts – it is a complete music theory journey.
• Tutorials to support every level of knowledge and curiosity – choose your own path.
• Over 12 hours of video tutorials explaining every aspect of music theory in Guy’s distinctive and uniquely accessible style.
• Music theory for guitarists.

Enroll today to take your compositional skills to new heights and unlock the full potential of your musical creations. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry professionals and join a community of passionate composers!

7. Self Pace Online Music Theory class – Coursera

Embark on a musical journey with Coursera’s Introduction to Music Theory course, offered by the prestigious University of Edinburgh. This online program provides a thorough introduction to the fundamental principles of music theory, making it an excellent choice for beginners or music enthusiasts seeking to expand their knowledge.

With a duration of 11 hours, a flexible schedule, and self-paced learning, this course allows you to study at your own pace. Priced at $49 per month, it offers exceptional value for the quality of education provided. 

Dive into notation, scales, chords, rhythm, and more topics through engaging video lectures, quizzes, and interactive exercises.

Led by a team of experienced instructors from the University of Edinburgh’s Reid School of Music, the University of Glasgow, and other reputed institutions, this course offers expert guidance and instruction. 

This is why you must benefit from their deep understanding of music theory, as they present the concepts in a clear and accessible manner. Their passion for music education shines through, making the learning experience enjoyable and engaging.

Student reviews rave about the Introduction to Music Theory course on Coursera. One student expressed,

” I loved this course. I learned a lot about music theory, so now when I play my instrument and read the sheet music, I not only understand the notes but also the reasons behind them.”

Based on this and similar reviews, we also recommend that you also check our guide on how to read sheet music.

Considering its comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction from the University of Edinburgh faculty, positive student feedback, and affordable pricing, we rate Coursera’s Introduction to Music Theory course 8.7 out of 9. 

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Week 1: Pitches, Scales, Modes, and Chords (2 hours to complete)
  • 7 videos (Total 50 min), 10 readings, 1 quiz
• Week 2: Keys, Minor Scales, Intervals, and Clefs (2 hours to complete)
  • 6 videos (Total 41 min), 5 readings, 1 quiz
• Week 3: Rhythm and Form (2 hours to complete)
  • 8 videos (Total 33 min), 6 readings, 1 quiz
• Week 4: Harmony 1: Functional Harmony (1 hour to complete)
  • 6 videos (Total 41 min), 5 readings, 1 quiz

Check out this best part-time course to learn music theory to deepen your understanding of music theory and unlock new possibilities in your musical journey. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a prestigious institution and join a global community of music enthusiasts!

8. An In-Depth and Straight Forward approach to Understanding Music – Udemy

Udemy’s best Music Theory course is perfect for beginner to intermediate level. The fact that 3,922 students are enrolled in this course proves just that!

Priced at $16.99, this course is an affordable one. It contains 3.5-hour on-demand videos with lifetime access to content. It’s affordable, considering you get 80 downloadable resources in 112 lectures.

This course will help you understand the basic definition and elements of music. You can also learn about music measurement unit classification, rhythmic notation, pulses, and sound waves.

You can complete this course in just 5 hours, which makes it perfect for individuals looking for a short crash course.

Taught by award-winning composer Jonathan Peters with 20 years of experience in music, this course will help you understand the music language and relate it to the melody. Also, he is on the list of top instructors for educating on online music composition.

The course bagged an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, indicating that the students love it. All of the course reviews were positive, and most of the students had to say this about this course:

“Can’t recommend this enough for an incredibly quick, detailed, well-structured class without any of the meandering, ums, and filler.”

Based on the course rating reviews, course material, and pricing, we rated this course 9.0/9.0.

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Relative Duration Sound
• Assign Values to Note Durations
• Meter
• Rests
• Dotted Notes
• The Tie
• Redesignating the Unit
• Cut Time
• Classifying Meters
• Triplets
• Duplets
• Pitch
• Introduction to Staff
• Learn the Name of Staff
• Intro to the Keyboard
• Sharp and Flats on Keyboard
• Sharp and Flats on Staff
• Introduction to Intervals
• Introduction to the Scale
• Major Keys
• Major Minor and Perfect Intervals

Ready to take your music skills to the next level? Join this music theory class today and unleash your full potential!”

9. A Short Lesson to Learn Basics of Music – Udemy

Here is another excellent music theory course for beginners on Udemy!

With over 7,000 enrolled students giving it a collective rating of 4.4 stars out of 5.0, this beginner-level course will teach you the fundamentals of music: Beat, Tempo, Bars, Time Signatures, and how to read sheet music.

Spanning over 6 sections and 50 lectures worth 1 hour of video, the course will take just 1hr 52 mins to complete.

The best part about the course is that the instructor Miguel Fajardo (Violinist), offers a lot of content quickly for maximized learning by utilizing his 20 years of experience in the music industry.

This online music theory lesson is perfect for you if you’re a beginner. Student reviews were also positive, with one student summing up the value of the course by stating:

“I have been singing and playing the lead or rhythm guitar for 50 + years by ear. I don’t know if my rating means anything. I got fed up with not knowing what I was playing and figured out the way to learn theory was to start [sic] at the very beginning.

This course would give a person who knew nothing about music a good start to build upon. This is what I am doing now that I should have done when starting.”

What else? It’s priced at $16.99, which might be the best value for a course you could get.

Due to the affordable price, the music theory class is rated 8.5/9.0.

Eligibility Criteria

• A keyboard
• A smartphone with a metronome app

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• How to Measure the Duration of Sound
• Basic Rhythms
• Advance Exercises
• Eight, Sixteen Notes
• Tied Dotted Notes
• Other Rhythmical Patterns

Ready to master the fundamentals of music? Enroll in our music theory basics course today! And don’t forget to check out piano music theory course for even more in-depth knowledge.”

10. 6 Weeks Music Theory Course – Edx

Berklee College offers a 6-week program that can help beginner-level students learn the basics of music theory. It is a 6-lesson course. Each music theory lesson can be completed in 3.5 hours so you can complete this entire course in just 21 hours. 

This exciting music theory class teaches beginners how to construct major and minor scales, create a standard chord progression – the I IV V, and much more for free!

Apart from that, you will also learn concepts such as major and minor triads, pentatonic scale, and dominant seventh chords (major and minor).

You’ll learn music theory online from Berklee College’s Music Professor, George W. ? George Russell, Jr. He has over 26 years of experience in teaching music.

There are around 100,315 students enrolled in the course, and the only prerequisite to becoming one of them is a passion for music – which means you’re pretty much there!

Students often hail Berklee as the best provider of music theory lessons online, with glowing reviews giving the course 5 stars. You’re lucky to be able to avail this Berklee course at a subsidized price (or for free!) from edX.

There are two tracks available at edX. The audit track, for free, gives you access to all material for a limited time without any certification. The other option is a $49 verified track which is a costly option.

Considering the number of enrolled students and the option of availing of this course for free, we give this course a score of 8.0/9.0.

The Following are the topics you can expect to learn:

• How to construct major and minor scales
• How to identify, analyze, and sing intervals
• How to identify the tonal center of a song
• How to build basic major, minor, and dominant seventh chords
• How to create a common chord progression – the I IV V
• How to recognize blues and AABA song forms

Are you ready to start your musical journey? Enroll in our beginner music theory course today and unlock your full potential as a musician!

11. Popular Music Theory Class – Yalemusic

Yale is offering Music Theory for beginner-level learners, and it is free!

With over 2,924 views, this course teaches you the entire music theory course online in 23 videos for around 1 hour each. You can complete this course in a day, but breaking the course material into a week is ideal for getting the most out of the concepts.

This course will help you gain a diverse theoretical knowledge of music theory online. Firstly, the course walks you through an introduction to musical instruments to familiarize you with the course.

It later builds on to topics such as rhythm, exploring jazz piano, piano classes, pop, and classical guitar, and then moves on to harmony, bass guitar, form, and fugue.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t find reviews for this course as the comments on the YouTube videos have been turned off, but based on the course content, we feel it’ll be great!

More than 10 Yale professors explored the likes of Mozart, Beethoven, and Mahler in this course, and we rated them 8.0/9.0 based on extensive course material.

The Following are the topics you can expect to learn:

• Elements of Musical Pitch and Tone
• Commercial and Popular Music Theory
• Meter, Rhythm, Musical Time
• Keyboard Skills for Tonal Music
• Introduction to Sound Studies
• Jazz Harmony
• Intermediate Musicianship
• Music Cognition

Looking for a comprehensive music theory lesson? We will guide you through the ins and outs of how to learn music theory. Enroll today and take the first step towards mastering the language of music!”

12. Bestseller Music Theory Course with Certification – Udemy

With over 92,209 students, “Music Theory Comprehension Class” is one of the best music theory courses on Udemy.

It consists of 157 lectures that can be completed in 12 hours. Furthermore, the course is affordable at $16.99, so you can master the theoretical concepts of music without spending much.

The online music theory course is taught by Jason Allen (Ph.D. / Ableton Certified Trainer), who teaches at Augsburg University in Minneapolis and has over 15 years of experience in the music industry.

This music theory course is extremely detailed and covers some aspects of music theory, including octaves, clefs, intervals, tempo, ties, solfege, and inversions.

The extensive music theory class layout is why it’s “5-Star Certified ” by the International Association of Online Music Educators and Institutions (IAOMEI). The course rating by Udemy students is 4.7 out of 5.0.

It also serves as a prep for music exams such as Praxis II. Beginners and Intermediates can benefit from enrolling in this course if they want something extremely comprehensive.

Even the reviews praise the course content and specifically appreciate the exercises given along with the solutions to practice music skills. Here is what the students had to say about the course:

“This instructor honestly makes learning fun. I have learned more from this class than I ever expected. very thorough and clear. The pace is perfect!“

“Great Great Great class”

Since the course reviews are impressive, we rate it 8.0/9.0.

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Read Music Using Proven Techniques
• Understand All the Symbols (Not Only the Notes) of a Music Score
• Read, Play, and Count Rhythms Accurately
• The elements of the Score
• Pitch Names
• Pitch Classes
• Octaves
• The White Keys
• The Black Keys (not the band!)
• Half-Steps and Whole-Steps
• Clefs
• Intervals
• Naming Octaves
• Identifying Notes on the Staff
• Identifying Notes on the Keyboard
• Beat and Beat Divisions

This music theory class will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to excel as a musician. And if you’re interested in learning how to become a composer, be sure to check out our dedicated page for more information. Enroll now and start your musical journey today!”

13. Top Rated Class of Music Theory – Coursera

This CalArts course on Coursera teaches you the beautiful merger of the theoretics and the esthetics of music in 69 videos and lectures.

This intermediate-level course is for learning music theory online, which builds the connection between music theory and melodious music in 22 hours.

You’ll learn melodic structures, pitched, cadence, and harmonic functions from Marc Lowenstein, a Disney Family Chair in Musical Composition.

With 33,000+ students rating this course 4.7 out of 5.0, you can be confident that it will be helpful for you.

The students praised the course and the instructors. We found the course reviews to be positive and shared one of the reviews here:

“Completely different approach to teaching music theory. Even if you have already studied music theory, it is worth taking [sic] this course. It goes deep into our music recognition and creation process.”

You can access Coursera courses in 3 ways. You can either audit them or apply for financial aid to access them for free. Second, purchase the Coursera Plus subscription for $59 per month, which is a costly option. And lastly, you can purchase a single course and understand the benefits of music lessons.

Due to the extensive course outline and positive reviews, we rate it at 8.0/9.0.

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Week 1: Melodic Structures: Lines, Shapes, and Simple Modes (5 hours to complete)
• Week 2: Melodic Structures: Simplicity, Repetition, and Change (7 hours to complete)
• Week 3: Combining Pitches: Consonance and Dissonance (5 hours to complete)
• Week 4: Cadences and Basic Harmonic Function (5 hours to complete)

The music theory online course will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the language of music. And if you’re interested in reading the music sheet, be sure to check out our dedicated page for more information. Enroll today and take the first step towards becoming a music theory pro!”

14. 13 Hours Musical Theory Class for Intermediates – Coursera

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to read and write in treble and bass clef, this course is for you! You’ll also get insight into the tonality, notation, scale, keys, intervals, and harmony of these 35 videos and lectures structured into 4 weeks.

While Coursera recommends this course for beginners, our review research revealed that many students found the information overwhelming for beginners. So if you’re an intermediate-level learner, you’d want to join the 95,400 other people on Coursera!

We went through the course content and found it to be quite in-depth. The reviews for the course were also positive. Most reviews mentioned that the course content discusses music theory in depth but lacks presentation.

Here’s what most students had to say:

“I’ve found this course a very straightforward and helpful way to learn the basics of music theory. Prof. Taggart explains the material in a straightforward way.”

As for the instructor, the course is taught by Bruce Taggart, an Associate Professor of Music at Michigan State University. Needless to say, you’ll be learning from the best.

We rate this course 8.0/9.0 based on reviews and pricing.

• Week 1: Basic Materials: Overview, Tonality, Notation (3 hours to complete)
• Week 2: Scales, Keys, and Intervals (4 hours to complete)
• Week 3: Rhythm and Meter (2 hours to complete)
• Week 4: Chords, Triads, and Harmony (3 hours to complete)

Take your music career to new heights with a music theory professional course. Designed for aspiring musicians and industry professionals, this course will equip you with advanced knowledge and skills to excel in the competitive world of music. Enroll now and unlock your full potential as a music theory pro!”

15. Fundamental of Music Theory for Beginner level – Cousrera

This exciting and demanding course for intermediate-level learners on Coursera is the best option if you are looking to improve your theoretical understanding of music.

281,000+ enrolled in this course, indicating that it is pretty extensive and loved by students. An additional perk of a university diploma adds brownie points to the course’s appeal. It even has a rating of 4.5 out of 5.0

You’ll learn how to read, write and analyze music annotations in this online music theory course through 8 hours of on-demand video and 12 downloadable resources.

It will take you around 12 hours to complete. However, this truly is a demanding course that is available at an affordable price of USD 9.99. Reviewers praised it for its depth and diverse instructor pool but mentioned that it takes motivation to complete the course.

Dr. Thomas Butler, a Teaching Fellow in Music at the University of Edinburgh, teaches the course. Having over 15 years of experience in the music arena, you can rest assured that you are learning from the best!

Since it is a budget-friendly option with an extensive course outline, we rate it at 8.5/9.0.

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Week 1: Pitches, Scales, Modes, and Chords (2 hours to complete)
• Week 2: Keys, Minor Scales, Intervals, and Clefs (2 hours to complete)
• Week 3: Rhythm and Form (2 hours to complete)
• Week 4: Harmony 1: Functional Harmony (3 hours to complete)

Master the language of music with our online music theory lessons. Enroll now and unlock your musical potential!”

16. Learng Universal Music Theory Principles – Udemy

Over the course of 8 hours, Max Konyi will teach you music theory online. You can earn a diploma for it! Max has been teaching music for over 17 years, making him an expert in this field.

Currently, 1707 graduated from this course, proving it is pretty popular among the students. You understand the theoretical fundamentals of music theory and explain scales, chords, and basic intervals through this course.

Speaking of composition, if you’re specifically interested in learning music composition, you’d want to enroll in this course designed for all-level learners.

This course is the best option for musicians who want to compose at a high level, producers who want to step up their music, and anyone who wants to learn how music works. Considering an affordable price tag of $9.99, you can rest assured that you will get the best education at the lowest price.

The reviews also praise the course content and structure. We found most of the reviews similar to this:

“I would recommend Max’s Musical Warp Drive experience to anyone who has an interest in music and wants to further their understanding, and any musician who is looking to put themselves in the proper mindset for practice. Perfect for beginners, even if you do not have prior knowledge. Max explains music and sound in such a way that makes it easy to understand and grasp the concept. He includes engaging activities that encourage you to practice mindfully with an intrinsic motivation.”

Our rating for this online music theory course is 8.0/9.0 based on affordable prices and student reviews.

Eligibility Criteria

• Physical instrument or music software on a computer
• Access to a keyboard (MIDI or physical)

The Following are the topic you can expect to learn:

• Essential music theory fundamentals
• How to develop an accurate musical ear
• How to create all basic intervals, scales, and chords
• Exercises for greater creativity and confidence while composing music
• Powerful practices for rapid development

Click here to take the complete music theory course.

9 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Music Theory Programs

When choosing the best music theory program, we considered several key factors to ensure a rewarding and practical learning experience.

1. Course Curriculum: We ensured that the course covered the topics we wanted to learn comprehensively, offering a well-rounded educational experience.
2. Instructor Qualifications: We sought out programs with instructors who had extensive qualifications and expertise in music theory.
3. Teaching Methodology: We preferred courses that utilized teaching styles and methodologies that aligned with our individual learning preferences.
4. Student Reviews: We paid close attention to positive feedback and success stories from past learners, considering their experiences and recommendations.
5. Accessibility and Flexibility: We ensured the courses were accessible and flexible, fitting into our schedule and providing ease of access.
6. Support and Community: We looked for options that offered a supportive learning environment, including access to instructors and a community of fellow learners.
7. Pricing: We considered the program’s cost and value, ensuring it was within our budget and provided good educational value.
8. Additional Learning Resources: We appreciated online courses that offered supplementary materials such as practice exercises or quizzes to enhance our learning experience.
9. Certification: We evaluated whether the program offered a recognized certification upon completion, which added value and credibility to our education.

By carefully considering these factors, we can confidently choose the best music theory courses to learn online that align with our goals and preferences and provides a solid foundation for our musical journey.

7 Major Benefits of Learning Music Theory Online

1. A deeper grasp of the creation and structure of music is possible by studying music theory. It enables students to more accurately evaluate and interpret music, which heightens their understanding of and enjoyment of music.
2. A better understanding of music theory helps musicians perform more effectively by improving their ability to read and comprehend musical notation. They can also better compose melodies and harmonies because they better understand how various notes and chords relate to one another.
3. By understanding the fundamentals of music theory, musicians can experiment with various chord progressions, melodies, and rhythms. It encourages them to write music that is more imaginative and inventive.
4. Musicians can communicate with one another by using music theory as a common language. Musicians can communicate their musical ideas more effectively by solidly understanding music theory in a band, symphony, or another musical ensemble.
5. Analyzing and interpreting intricate musical structures is a key component of music theory. Students get the capacity to think critically and come up with creative solutions to issues by studying music theory lessons.
6. Studying music theory requires memorizing scales, chord progressions, and musical notation. This promotes cognitive powers and memory.
7. Much of the problem-solving, critical-thinking, and creative abilities taught in music theory are applied to various spheres of life, including academic endeavors and professional jobs.

Conclusion

Exploring the captivating realm of music theory can genuinely take your musical journey to new heights. By considering factors like course content, instructor qualifications, teaching style, student reviews, accessibility, support, certification, etc., we have presented the best music theory courses out there. 

So, select the one that matches your needs the most and enrolls right away! Because whether you’re just starting out or aiming to level up your skills, these courses offer a solid foundation and a deep understanding of the language of music, and that is precisely what will set you apart!

So, don’t hold back! Dive into the beautiful world of music theory and unlock your full musical potential. With suitable courses in your corner, you’ll gain invaluable insights, refine your skills, and become a true master of melodies.

Remember, it’s all about finding the top music theory courses that resonate with your learning preferences and aspirations. So, prepare to embark on this exciting journey, and let the best music theory courses be your guiding light. Let the music begin!