Music Theory: An Introduction



Overview

This online course will cover the basics of classical music theory – notation, rhythm, melody, harmony and form – relating theory to practice with examples from over three centuries of repertoire. 

Theory grows from practice. Each generation of composers 'breaks the rules' and so gives rise to modifications of musical theory. Nonetheless, at heart music theory is simply an attempt to explain our perceptions of music and to provide an efficient vocabulary for its discussion.

Each theoretical concept will be discussed with both its technical and expressive implications in mind and we will look at the way in which theories have changed over the centuries.

Whilst not aimed at a specific exam, the course will provide useful preparation for those taking Associated Board theory exams. 

This course combines online study with a weekly 1-hour live webinar led by your tutor. Find out more about how our short online courses are taught.

Programme details

This course begins on the 12 Jan 2026 which is when course materials are made available to students. Students should study these materials in advance of the first live meeting which will be held on 19 Jan 2026, 2:30-3:30pm (UK time).

Week 1: Clefs and staff notation. Duration or 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 – 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 grouping of notes. Scales and keys - VI.

Week 9: Intervals. Rhythm - syncopation.

Week 10: Intervals continued. Rhythm - bars of unequal length and irregular rhythms.

Fees

Description Costs
Course Fee £360.00

Funding

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit, you are a full-time student in the UK or a student on a low income, you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees. Please see the below link for full details:

Concessionary fees for short courses

Tutor

Dr Peter Copley

Peter Copley D.Phil, MA, B.mus is a composer, cellist and pianist. He is a visiting lecturer at OUDCE, the University of Sussex and for the Open University, where he has been a Research Associate for the music faculty.

Course aims

To explain basic music theory, relating it to our fundamental musical perceptions, and to show that, properly used, the language of music theory can be a very efficient tool for discussing music.

By the end of the course, students will have an understanding of basic music theory.

Teaching methods

Learning takes place on a weekly schedule. At the start of each weekly unit, students are provided with learning materials on our online platform, including one hour of pre-recorded video, often supplemented by guided readings and educational resources. These learning materials prepare students for a one-hour live webinar with an expert tutor at the end of each weekly unit which they attend in small groups. Webinars are held on Microsoft Teams, and provide the opportunity for students to respond to discussion prompts and ask questions. The blend of weekly learning materials that can be worked through flexibly, together with a live meeting with a tutor and their peers, maximise learning and engagement through interaction in a friendly, supportive environment.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students will be expected to:

  • read basic musical notation;
  • describe basic features of a piece of music using technical language; and
  • relate these features to the expressive purposes of the composer.

Assessment methods

You will be set a portfolio of up to five pieces of work to complete over the duration of the course, one or more of which might be submitted for the purposes of feedback only and will not count towards your final outcome. The other pieces will be submitted for formal assessment at the end of the course. The assessed work is marked pass or fail.

Application

Please use the 'Book' or 'Apply' button on this page. Alternatively, please complete an Enrolment form for short courses | Oxford University Department for Continuing Education

 

Level and demands

The Department's short online courses are taught at FHEQ Level 4, i.e. first year undergraduate level. FHEQ level 4 courses require approximately 10 hours study per week, therefore a total of about 100 study hours.

English Language Requirements

We do not insist that applicants hold an English language certification, but warn that they may be at a disadvantage if their language skills are not of a comparable level to those qualifications listed on our website. If you are confident in your proficiency, please feel free to enrol. For more information regarding English language requirements please follow this link: https://www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/english-language-requirements

 

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support