by Pamela Rentzel

I like to teach “memory tricks” when I’m teaching chords and chord progressions!  Why?  Because if the student memorizes the “trick” or “short cut” they can INSTANTLY play the chord when they see it on a chord sheet! 

I’ve been asked “doesn’t that affect the students desire or ability to learn music theory?”  Absolutely not!  If a student has a desire to learn music theory—they will take the necessary classes and investigate the necessary documents to learn the “whys” and “wherefores” of the underlying theory. 

Let’s be honest, many people who play “by ear” or “by chords” have no desire to learn music theory—which I find disappointing—but it’s their choice.  I would rather teach a student a “trick” or “short cut” which will allow them to use better chords and better chord progressions rather than listen to them play just the triads and basic chord changes within a key signature.

If you are an individual who wants to learn the theory and what makes music “tick” go for it!  It’s great!   If you play by ear or chords and just want to play well but not delve into the mechanics of music theory, then learn the “tricks” and “short cuts” so you can play well NOW.  Perhaps one of these days something will click in your brain and you’ll want to know the WHY as well as the HOW.  In addition, using the “tricks” and “short cuts” allows you to memorize chords and progressions without having to sit and calculate the formulas as you play!