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Minimum music theory book required to play pop piano.

Feb 16, 2025

Understanding basic music theory is important for playing pop piano. Knowing the basics of chord progressions, rhythms, and arrangements will allow you to improvise and arrange more widely. Here is a selection of music theory books that you should read at a minimum in order to play pop piano.

1. "Introduction to Popular Music Theory" ◆ 1.

Author: Keith Negus

Translator: YASUDA Masahiro

Publisher: Suiseisha

Publication date: April 15, 2004

Summary: A book to learn the theory of popular music in general. The relationship between melody and chords, the concept of rhythm, and other topics are explained using actual pieces as examples, so even piano beginners can learn in a practical way.

2. "General Music Theory" ◆ 2.

Author: Hibiki Shimizu

Publisher: Ritto Music

Publication date: February 19, 2021

Description: Comprehensive explanation of the fundamentals of music. Recommended for those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of pop piano, as it systematically teaches not only music theory but also the knowledge necessary for performance.

3. "OzaShin's Anyone Can Understand Introduction to Music Theory" ◆ 3.

Author: OzaShin

Publisher: Natsumesha

Publication date: February 17, 2022

Outline: An easy-to-understand music theory book for beginners. Gently explains basic chord progressions and popular music theory.

summary

To play pop piano, knowledge of music theory is a great help. Use the books introduced here to learn the basics of chord progressions, rhythms, and arrangements, and enjoy playing in your own unique way!

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