Have you ever played in a garage rock band? Taken music lessons in school? Sung in a church choir? Maybe you play professionally, or simply enjoy listening to music.
Whatever your musical experience, Jeffrey Willkomm is here to tell you that learning music theory can change your musical life.
Jeffrey, an accomplished songwriter, bass and guitar player, changed his life by taking an intensive music theory course three years ago at Jeff Berlin’s Players School of Music in Florida. He talked with me about his experience and why he wants to teach theory to anyone who has an interest in music.
Q: How can learning music theory change your life as a musician?
A: It’s a life-changing experience not only because it’s personally more satisfying to play when you have the theory knowledge, but also because it can give you concrete opportunities to make more money as a musician.
When you learn music theory you become a music reader, which enables you to walk into any situation – a recording studio or an audition or a live performance – and be the player you need to be. When you learn the foundations of music, you can read charts and play music on the spot using the theory and your ear to handle any situation thrown at you.
For example, when I was studying at the Players School of Music, a student who came in for a lesson after me had learned a bass part. It was a pretty complex tune and he played it well. But then the teacher asked him to play the same tune in the key of b flat. He had no idea what to do. He’d learned one set of fingerings in one key. In order for him to advance as a player, or for anyone to “play with the big boys,” you need the knowledge to adapt and make that key change on the spot.
Q: What inspired you to go back to school?
A: I always wanted to go back. And as a musician I was getting to the point where I was playing with people who knew more than I did – and they knew it.
In order to keep getting quality work I needed more knowledge.
Q: What was your goal in going back to school?
A: Advancement.
Q: Was it hard?
A: Yes. I was in my mid 40s. It’s hard to step back and learn anything once you’re older, but I was determined.
Q: Was it worth it?
A: Oh, yeah. I do session work now. I’ve played on albums and commercials that I never would have been able to do before. I have the confidence to go to a session because I know that whatever they put down in front of me, I can do it.
Q
: What inspires you to teach?
A: Teaching music theory or an instrument is as satisfying, or more satisfying, than playing on stage. You can have a more direct effect on someone and you can see results.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish with your students?
A: It’s not what I want, it’s what they want. It’s about helping them find a way to express themselves in a positive way; to help them make a step forward.
Q: What’s your general approach to the classes?
A: I tailor the class to fit wherever people are at musically. We juggle schedules.
Q: Why do you teach a harmony class?
A: The harmony class is an intellectual exercise. You learn the intellectual mechanics of music and how it works.
Q: Why sight singing and ear training?
A: In this class you’ll hear how music works.
Q: If there was one thing you’d like people to learn from this article it would be…
A: No matter what your age, interest or experience level, it’s possible to get something from these classes. It could be that you’ll have a greater appreciation for music as a listener. Or you’ll be a better player, songwriter, arranger, or teacher, or you’ll open up more professional opportunities.
Jeffrey Willkomm lives in Northeast Minneapolis and teaches music theory, bass and guitar at the Camden Music School. He has over 30 years experience in live performance, theater, arranging and session recording. For info visit www.jeffreywillkomm.com. Music theory class and registration information is available at www.camdenmusicschool.com, or call 612-618-0219.