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Harmony, music theory and ear training

Analysis, technique and reflections on tonal harmony, ear training and the Shostakovich method.

The Shostakovich Method: Classical Harmony for the 21st Century

Shostakovich studied counterpoint and harmony through the most rigorous tradition in Russian pedagogy. Here's why that system — with some adaptations — remains the most effective way to develop ear training and harmonic intuition.

March 20, 2024Read →

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Which Note to Double in Each Chord — and Why It Matters

Doubling is not an arbitrary rule: it reflects the acoustic hierarchy within the chord. Learn the doubling rules for triads in root position, first, and second inversion.

February 8, 2024Read →

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Why Parallel Fifths Sound 'Wrong' — and When to Use Them

The most famous rule in counterpoint has a deep acoustic reason behind it. Here's the physics behind the prohibition — and the cases where great composers broke it on purpose.

January 15, 2024Read →