Music theory should not be studied purely as a ‘bolt-on’ to practical studies, or merely to pass an examination which is a means to an end. Moreover, music theory is an interesting and lively study which enhances musical understanding. To study music theory is an end in itself. Furthermore, music theory can be used creatively to help the piano student become more adept at decoding music notation, to gain knowledge of various musical devices and an awareness of the ‘tool-kit’ to create music, however simple or complex. It can therefore aid and enhance musical application to playing and listening skills through a more informed understanding as a means to convey musical feeling and emotions rather than a somewhat dry and seeming irrelevant facet of musical learning. Taught with proper application, music theory blurs the line between practical and theoretical musicianship and thus serves as an important aspect of development in the musical personality of a student.
Music theory is essentially the ‘nuts and bolts’ which can secure a more solid pianistic technique and artistry through an understanding of how a piece of music is constructed and portrayed and thus enhances creative purpose, for instance the awareness that a tonic or dominant pedal (or inverted pedal) in the music creates tension prior to a satisfactory cadential point of resolution; an understanding of pitch, rhythm, pulse, harmony, timbre, mood, historical insight, nuance and a grasp of various musical idioms and styles etc..
Application of music theory moves the student beyond simply dots on the page and fosters continuous musical growth not just to reach a ‘full potential’ but also beyond this to a lifelong understanding and greater enjoyment of music.