Learning Outcomes

Introduction to Music Theory

Diagnostic Quiz

Introduction to Instruments and Musical Genres

Instruments and Acoustics

Lesson Summary

In this module, you will be introduced to music theory and what will be covered in the remainder of this course. You will learn about different instruments and musical techniques.

Musical Notation

Identifying Meters in Musical Excerpts

Features of Rhythm

Counting Measures and Musical Dictation

In this module, learn about the fundamentals of rhythm by listening to musical excerpts and identifying different meters, counting different measures, and musical textures.

Diploma in Music Theory: First Assessment

You must score 80% or more to pass this assessment.

The Development of Notes and the Scale

Major, Minor, and Chromatic Scales

Cadences and Sequences

Exploring Wagner's and Mozart's Melodies

In this module, learn all about melody including notes, scales, nuts and bolts, and how they are used in musical composers such as Mozart and Wagner.

Introduction to Harmony

Harmonic Progressions

Chord Progressions

Three and Four Chord Progressions

In this module, learn about how to build chords to create a harmony and bass patterns that occur in blues and rock musical pieces.

Diploma in Music Theory: Second Assessment

Introduction to Form in Music

Sonata-Allegro Form in Mozart and Beethoven

Sonata-Allegro Form

In this module, you will gain an in-depth analysis of musical forms including sonata-allegro form and theme and variation.

Theme and Variations

Theme and Variations in Brahms's Composition

Rondo Form

In this module, learn about the following musical forms: theme and variation, and rondo form.

Attending Concerts

Guest Conductor

Introduction to Fugues

Fugue Structures in Musical Excerpts

In this module, learn how to analyse a concert you are attending. This module will also teach you about fugue and how it is used in different musical pieces by Bach, Bizet, and Bernstein.

Diploma in Music Theory: Third Assessment

Diploma in Music Theory - Assessment

Learn to identify different rhythms and instruments in a piece of music with this free online music theory course.

Diploma in Music Theory

This free online Music Theory diploma will introduce you to basic music theory and then cover the subjects of instruments, rhythm, melody, harmony, and musical form. In this course you will study different musical instruments and the techniques used in classical music pieces. You will also learn how these aspects of classical music are applied to other genres of music. Take this free online course today and start developing your ear for music!

Coursera 10-K Highlights: Lower Partner Revenue Share, 1k+ Employees

10 Best Critical Thinking Courses for 2026: From Problems to Decisions

Coursera Q1 2022: $120.4M Revenue, $38.3M in Losses, 16K Degree Students

7 Best Reverse Engineering Courses for 2025

Coursera Q1 2026: Platform Fee Raises Consumer Margins to a Multi-Year High, Enterprise Customers Slip

Udemy Q4 2025: First Profitable Year Ends in a Loss

OpenAI Academy Review: A Close Look at ChatGPT 101 for Small Businesses

Exploring edX’s “Final” Tax Returns: Revenue Surges, Losses Mount, and Contributions Decline