Music Theory Companion

Music Theory Companion: Interactive Learning and Reference Guide

The Music Theory Companion is a comprehensive mobile application designed to teach and serve as a reference for music theory. Music Theory Companion is an essential tool for musicians, students, and educators seeking to understand the building blocks of music, from reading sheet music to mastering complex harmonic relationships. The Music Theory Companion transforms abstract concepts into interactive, digestible lessons and practical utilities.

Interactive Circle of Fifths Explorer

The Music Theory Companion includes a dynamic circle of fifths. Users start by tapping on a key to select it as their root. Music Theory Companion then visually highlights all related keys, displaying major, minor, and relative scales. Users can interact by rotating the circle or tapping different segments to hear audio examples of each key and scale. This visual and auditory feedback helps musicians quickly understand key signatures and modulations for composition and analysis.

Scale and Mode Reference Library

Users access a complete library of scales and modes within the Music Theory Companion. They begin by selecting a root note and a scale type from an extensive list, such as Major, Harmonic Minor, or Dorian. The app then displays the scale on a virtual keyboard or fretboard, depending on the selected instrument. Users can play each note individually or hear the entire scale. This function is critical for practice, improvisation, and identifying the unique sound of each mode.

Chord Construction and Progression Builder

This function allows for deep exploration of chords. In the Music Theory Companion, a user selects a chord type (e.g., major 7th, diminished) and a root note. The app constructs the chord, showing its intervals and notes on a staff and instrument diagram. For building progressions, users can string multiple chords together, and the app provides an analysis of the progression's function (e.g., authentic cadence). It also suggests common follow-up chords, aiding in songwriting.

Ear Training and Interval Recognition Drills

The Music Theory Companion offers structured ear training. A user starts a drill where the app plays two notes sequentially. The user must then identify the interval between them by selecting from multiple-choice options. The drills progress in difficulty, starting with simple perfect fourths and fifths and advancing to more complex compound intervals. Correct answers allow users to advance and unlock more challenging levels, systematically improving their aural skills.

Interactive Lessons on Rhythm and Meter

This section provides step-by-step lessons on rhythm. A user selects a lesson topic, like "Time Signatures" or "Syncopation." The Music Theory Companion presents explanatory text followed by interactive exercises. In one exercise, the user taps along with a visual metronome to match a displayed rhythm pattern. The app provides immediate feedback on timing accuracy, helping to build a solid internal pulse and reading proficiency.

Customizable Practice and Revision Quizzes

Users can test their knowledge with customizable quizzes. They first select topics to be tested on, such as note names, key signatures, or chord qualities. The Music Theory Companion then generates a unique quiz with various question types, including multiple-choice, notation identification, and audio-based questions. After completing the quiz, the app provides a score and a detailed breakdown of correct and incorrect answers, highlighting areas for further study.

Direct Sheet Music Analysis Tool

This advanced feature allows for practical application. A user can input or photograph a simple piece of sheet music. The Music Theory Companion then analyzes the excerpt, identifying and explaining the key, time signature, and chord progressions present. It highlights non-diatonic notes and suggests their harmonic function, serving as an invaluable practice aid for students learning to analyze compositions directly from a score.