I am a complete beginner when it comes to music theory. I always find myself just guessing at the fret board and playing until I find something that sounds good or relying on chord progressions from Songs I've learned through tabs. I have the attention span of a rodent and normal means of learning music theory just doesn't click with me (I've tried on several occasions). I found this program called EarMaster and it seems perfect for me. The reason why i'm bringing this here is because I don't know if this is going to teach me theory or if it will just show me to how to sight read with voice. I can't find anything on this. So hopefully someone here has an opinion on it.
Thanks.
Thoughts on EarMaster software?
Moderator: Quentin
Thoughts on EarMaster software?
Jay Potts
Re: Thoughts on EarMaster software?
Hi,
Even though EarMaster is not a dedicated "music theory trainer", completing the Beginner's Course will teach you most of the core aspects of music theory with a learn-by-doing approach, which seems like something that might work for you. Learning Music theory is a long journey and can feel a bit tedious, so learning it with interactive exercises makes it easier. I hope it'll help you reach your goals. Also make sure to elect "Guitar"
as "Primary Instrument" in EarMaster's preferences if you want to use the exercises with a guitar fretboard, guitar sounds, and guitar notation (table clef transposed by one octave)
Even though EarMaster is not a dedicated "music theory trainer", completing the Beginner's Course will teach you most of the core aspects of music theory with a learn-by-doing approach, which seems like something that might work for you. Learning Music theory is a long journey and can feel a bit tedious, so learning it with interactive exercises makes it easier. I hope it'll help you reach your goals. Also make sure to elect "Guitar"
- Because in Music, We're All Ears... -
- polytrack
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- Joined: 16 Jul 2025, 09:00
- Location: https://poly-track.io
Re: Thoughts on EarMaster software?
You can absolutely choose the guitar as “Primary Instrument” in the settings, so that the software displays the guitar fretboard, helping you apply it directly when learning – this is ideal if you are learning guitar.
- farareaa
- Noob
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- Joined: 05 Aug 2025, 10:43
- Location: https://poorbunnygame.com
Re: Thoughts on EarMaster software?
So while it does not directly teach theory in the classical sense (like scales, chord construction, key signatures, circle of fifths, etc.), it reinforces the concepts of theory through practical application. That’s especially helpful for people like you who struggle with theory books or traditional lessons.
Re: Thoughts on EarMaster software?
EarMaster won’t teach full music theory, but it’s great for training your ear and rhythm. If theory feels boring, this could make learning more natural and fun.
Re: Thoughts on EarMaster software?
EarMaster is a great tool for beginners, as it focuses on ear training and music theory concepts, helping you develop a better understanding of music through practical exercises rather than just sight reading, which can enhance your overall musicianship.JayPotts wrote: ↑21 May 2025, 09:01 I am a complete beginner when it comes to music theory. I always find myself just guessing at the fret board and playing until I find something that sounds good or relying on chord progressions from Songs I've learned through tabs. I have the attention span of a rodent and normal means of learning music theory just doesn't click with me (I've tried on several occasions). I found this program called EarMaster and it seems perfect for me. The reason why i'm bringing this here is because I don't know if this is going to teach me theory or if it will just show me to how to sight read with voice. I can't find anything on this. So hopefully someone here has an opinion on it.
Thanks.