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Writer's pictureJeffrey

The Importance of Music Theory for Performers

As a music director here in New York, I've had the privilege of working with countless talented vocalists and performers, each bringing their own unique artistry and energy to the stage. However, one recurring challenge I’ve observed throughout my career is the variable level of music theory knowledge among performers. While everyone comes to the table with raw talent and a desire to bring their characters to life, a solid understanding of music theory could make the rehearsal process so much more efficient and productive for everyone involved.


Picture this: we’re in the middle of a rehearsal for a complex musical number, balancing tight harmonies with rhythmic nuance and emotional delivery. A performer may be able to mimic a melody or rely on muscle memory to sing the right notes, but as soon as they encounter an unexpected harmony, a tricky rhythm, or a slight adjustment to the arrangement, they might stumble. This is not because of any lack of talent or effort, but often due to a gap in foundational music knowledge that would allow them to understand the music on a deeper level.


Music theory equips performers with the tools to interpret the score beyond just reading notes on a page. For instance, when a performer understands chord progressions, they can anticipate harmonies and transitions, enabling them to react intuitively to musical cues rather than needing constant direction. They can quickly pick up new harmonies or work out complex rhythms without feeling overwhelmed. This fluency allows us to focus on the more nuanced aspects of the music, like dynamics, emotion, and storytelling, rather than spending precious rehearsal time ironing out basic music issues.


It’s not only about efficiency, though. I’ve seen firsthand how an understanding of music theory fosters confidence. A performer who can sight-read or dissect a challenging piece is going to feel more secure and expressive on stage. They’re able to collaborate more freely with the creative team and their fellow cast members, which often leads to richer, more memorable performances.


This is precisely why I created MTforMT. Tailored to the needs of musical theatre performers, they offer music theory in a way that is directly applicable to the rehearsal process, making the material relatable and accessible. Understanding the foundations of music helps performers move from simply being told what to sing and when, to interpreting the music themselves and truly “owning” their roles.


So, if you’re a performer, consider investing time in music theory – it’s a skill set that pays off on stage and in every collaborative musical setting. I’ve seen the difference it makes, and I can assure you, it’s a game-changer for both the performer and the entire production.

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