Daniel Christlein wrote:

>This is a question primarily to the composers among the list members........
>I am looking for good and comprehensive textbooks on a basic level that
>even astronomers can understand and that are suitable for self-study.
>I have seen a few works in the library of the UofA music department,
>but found their emphasis to be too much on contemporary compositional
>techniques for my taste.
>
>I would greatly appreciate any textbook recommendations from you.

Assuming, as you mentioned, you are already reading scores, my
recommendations are:

"An Introduction to Tonal Theory" by Peter Westergaard

"The Rudiments of Music" by John Castellini

"Harmony" by Walter Piston

If you are going to be composing, then at some point you will need to begin
learning about simple forms, i.e.  "opened", "closed", "binary", "ternary"
etc.

For that I would recommend "Musical Structure and Design" by Cedric
Thorpe Davies and also, "Fundamententals of Musical Composition" by Arnold
Schoenberg.  It is also very important that you work the exercises in these
books, as they are rewarding.  These books can be used for self study, but
if at all possible, you should seek out a competent instructor, this will
save you time and you will benefit greatly as well.

Also, I cannot stress enough, in the midst of all this, ear training is
mandatory!  Keen and discerning "ears" are absolutely essential to any
good composer.  I can't imagine a composer being anything but utterly
lost who cannot mentally "hear" what he is writing.  Before you can set
out to write a great book you must first understand the alphabet!  Learn
to identify intervals, scales, chord types, key changes, organ point, etc.
I'm sure if you check with your local community college, you will find
they offer extention courses on ear training.  Do not be concerned with
developing "perfect pitch", (as has been discussed elsewhere on this list)
This is not absolutely necessary to a composer, but "well trained" ears
are!  It will also enhance your enjoyment as a listener.

Regards, Scott Lasky [log in to unmask]