The complete idiot's guide to music theory

pt. 1. Tones: pitches and clefs

Intervals

Scales

Major and minor keys

pt. 2. Rhythms: note values and basic notation

Time signatures

Tempo, dynamics, and navigation

pt. 3. Tunes: melodies

Chord progressions

Phrases and form

pt. 4. Accompanying: transcribing what you hear

Accompanying melodies

Transposing to other keys

pt. 5. Embellishing: harmony and counterpoint

Chord substitutions and turnarounds

Special notation

pt. 6. Composing and arranging for voices and instruments

Lead sheets and scores

Performing your music.