tcsned wrote:If you are still in school, do they offer a theory course? I took 3 years of music theory in high school and that was probably the most valuable classes I took, save an inspiring history teacher. Learning that stuff isn't a lot of fun and learning under pain of failure is the only way I got it. If that isn't available, I'd look into getting a intro to theory texbook for a freshman college class that comes with a workbook. Just reading alone on a webpage is not going to do it unless you do some work and interacting with the information. Writing it out helps to make things sink in. After writing it out, get out your guitar and play through things to transfer the information to your instrument. It takes time and effort but you'll get there if it's something you want to do.
That is great advice. I had 3 years in high school and minored in it in college. The college courses were tough since they were independant studies, and not in a class. I had to realize bass (harmonize) lines according to 18th century theory.
then present it to the professor. It was brutal. But I learned a hell of alot. and it really stuck.
OP, remember that theory and sight reading are two different things. It seems as though you are talking about both. Theory is more of whats going on, and sight reading is an acquired technique. Both are important, but theory is more so. You should at least be able to run through a chord chart and simple lead sheet, like a "Real Book".
I know standard notation, but dont really sight read it.
Information is not knowledge. Knowledge is not wisdom. Wisdom is not beauty. Beauty is not love. Love is not music. Music is the best.- the girl from the bus