Music Theory, Composition, & Songwriting
In addition to piano lessons, voice lessons, instrumental music lessons, and music ensembles, we offer music instruction in music theory, musicianship, composition, and songwriting.
This includes preparation for exams and honors programs, such as AP Music Theory, Certificate of Merit (CM), and RCM, as well as preparation for admissions to high school and college music programs, and for university or music conservatory entrance requirements and auditions.
Music Theory lessons the way you need them.
“Dr. Dennis is truly passionate about teaching and nurturing music students, and it shows in every lesson. His methods are all about positive reinforcement, which is much healthier than traditional/strict methods. His students enjoy going to lessons, and enjoy playing on their own at home as well! I highly recommend Dr. Dennis and his staff (personally vetted by himself)!”
— Diana C.
"We thought Music Theory would be dry—but the teacher made it fascinating, connecting chord progressions to modern music and games. My daughter ended up loving it so much she double‑majored in it at college! She not only passed the exam but learned to hear music on a whole new level."
— Caroline E.
“This class totally saved me. I went from barely understanding key signatures to scoring a 5 on the AP exam!”
— Kevin J.
Music Theory Lessons, Classes, & Tutoring
For students seeking music theory lessons for their own purposes, for specific program preparation such as high school AP Music Theory, Music Teacher Association of California (MTAC) Certificate of Merit (CM) exams, and Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams, and for preparation for admissions to high school and college music programs, and for university or music conservatory entrance auditions.
Tutoring and coaching are available, including assistance with college-level music theory coursework.
Music theory lessons include musicianship skills. This means ear training, sight singing, solfege practice, audiation, playing by ear, music transcription, and conducting.
Click here to learn more about our Exams & Honors Add-on Package in our Membership options.
Music Composition & Songwriting
For students seeking lessons in music composition, including voice leading, chord progressions, harmony, inventing motives (motifs), composing melodies, counterpoint, orchestration, arranging, and more. Student can focus on classical music, jazz, blues, film music, and other traditional and non-traditional styles and genres.
For students seeking lessons in songwriting, including writing melodies and lyrics, chord progressions, harmonies, and setting text to music. Students can focus on styles and genres from pop music, to vocal jazz, to classical art song, musical theater and opera, to church music, and choral music.
New students seeking music theory, composition, and songwriting lessons must schedule an introductory music lesson. (Currently enrolled students do not need to schedule an introductory lesson. Instead, talk to your teacher, the Office Manager, or Dr. Dennis.)
