What are the three techniques used by composers to structure their piece?

Compositional Techniques

• Pitch.
• Rhythm.
• Dynamics.
• Articulation (e.g. accents, slurs, staccato…)
• Key.
• Tempo.
• Instrumentation (which instruments are playing)
• Expression (e.g. via Italian terms)

Why do I struggle with music theory?

Music theory is difficult to grasp because it uses visual methods to describe what we hear. That’s a big problem for music theorists because our brains interpret music hundreds of times faster than it takes to explain it. This is why music is powerful.

How has learning theory helped you in your music career?

Learning theory helped me greatly in all aspects of my music: listening, arranging, playing with a band, composing, etc. That amazing music you hear in TV shows, etc was made by people who know a lot about music; the DAW or anything else they use to create the music is secondary to their knowledge.

Do I have to learn scales and notes before learning music?

You don’t have to learn scales or notes first or buy a keyboard. Besides, it’s free. Having a little knowledge of music theory, you can still train your ear. If you compose music, you have to be able to hear “good” and “bad” notes.

Is Fruity Loops a difficult Daw to learn?

Don’t begin with too difficult DAW. You can always try a demo version before choosing your way. In my early days I did use the free demo version of Fruity Loops for more than a year, it worked fine. Also, you don’t necessarily need to know terminology, music theory or how to use the DAW.

Is it possible to compose without theory?

Short answer: you can compose without without theory, but it would be extremely difficult to compose without training your ears. Focus on ear training, and learn only basic music theory (major minor sales, basic chords).