Courses Learning the Italian Language in order to Learn Music Theory

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The discussion centers on whether learning Italian is necessary for understanding music theory, particularly due to the prevalence of Italian terms in the field. While some argue that knowing Italian can enhance comprehension of musical concepts and nuances, others contend that it is not essential. Many Italian musical terms, such as tempo and dynamics, are commonly used and understood even in English. It is suggested that learning a few key terms may suffice for practical purposes, especially for those not pursuing a career in opera or vocal performance. The consensus leans toward the idea that while studying Italian can enrich one's appreciation of music and culture, it is not a prerequisite for grasping basic music theory. Additionally, resources like music dictionaries and theory books can provide necessary definitions without the need for full language acquisition. Overall, the emphasis is on the importance of practice and personal interpretation in music over linguistic mastery.
  • #31
I've had a couple semesters of music theory and not knowing Italian has not kept me from being a fairly successful amateur. I'm the worship director of a small local church, I give introductory lessons in guitar and bass, my YouTube music channel gets over 1000 views a month, and I can play guitar, bass, or keyboards depending on the need. I've also written a physics paper or two relating music theory to physics.

My lack of knowledge of Italian has never been a hindrance to my musical accomplishments. The biggest hindrance to my musical accomplishments is practice time. At 3-5 hours per week, most of my practice time is spent learning new songs and re-learning older songs to have adequate mastery for weekly performances - mostly in church. I'm good enough not to get in the way of positive experiences for the audience and other musicians. But development of real professional level talent would require 20 hours a week or more of practice. Being better at music theory (or Italian) probably would not help much.

When choosing musicians to perform with us, mastery of music theory is hardly a consideration. My biggest concern musically is whether they are willing to practice and have the humility to blend in with the rest of the team rather than trying to show off. Talent wise, they only need to be good enough not to become a distraction to the audience. If they are willing to practice, it's a safe bet they will be improving.
 
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  • #32
Dr. Courtney said:
I've had a couple semesters of music theory and not knowing Italian has not kept me from being a fairly successful amateur. I'm the worship director of a small local church, I give introductory lessons in guitar and bass, my YouTube music channel gets over 1000 views a month, and I can play guitar, bass, or keyboards depending on the need. I've also written a physics paper or two relating music theory to physics.

My lack of knowledge of Italian has never been a hindrance to my musical accomplishments. The biggest hindrance to my musical accomplishments is practice time. At 3-5 hours per week, most of my practice time is spent learning new songs and re-learning older songs to have adequate mastery for weekly performances - mostly in church. I'm good enough not to get in the way of positive experiences for the audience and other musicians. But development of real professional level talent would require 20 hours a week or more of practice. Being better at music theory (or Italian) probably would not help much.

When choosing musicians to perform with us, mastery of music theory is hardly a consideration. My biggest concern musically is whether they are willing to practice and have the humility to blend in with the rest of the team rather than trying to show off. Talent wise, they only need to be good enough not to become a distraction to the audience. If they are willing to practice, it's a safe bet they will be improving.
Yes. Practice practice practice.
Ability essential if you want to be a professional. Like many careers.