Publisher's Synopsis
It is the premise of this text that essential music skills for 21st century musicians should include both contemporary and traditional music theory. In her lifelong passion to help students find connections in music between natural talent and acquired skills Dr. Cartwright has incorporated varied learning styles and challenge growing musicians to use their strengths to strengthen their weaknesses. This second edition of "Essential Skills" has been updated after six years of teaching from the first edition at Point University in West Point, GA. Although most of her students have been college-age, she has used her book with elementary-age children and adults studying music in retirement. Dr. Katie admonishes all who use this book, "Don't let music theory be a barrier to your musical pursuits--embrace music theory in your musical passion." This book is dedicated to all of her past, present, and future music students.
