“Piano reading skills is most important,” asserts Tomoko. But this
reading goes beyond just following the notes, just as cooking transcends
reading the recipe. Cooking follows certain protocols based on the science of
food; so too does music follows the theory of music.
Music reveals patterns of sound, and music theory codifies those
patterns. Music theory covers not just the elements of composition, but also studies
the writing of music. Over the ages, composers create new patterns, which shape
music theory and makes it truly dynamic.
When Tomoko studied music, she had to take music theory along with
instrumentation and composition. Her own students also complement piano lessons
with music theory. Furthermore, Tomoko incorporates music theory into her lesson.
“Students need to know the vocabulary of music and the inner workings of music
in order to perform knowledgeably.” Tomoko says, “It’s like an English teacher explaining
grammar.”
Tomoko also talks about composers and their music, including how they
manifest music theory. How are composers identified by their musical forms? How
does Bach’s compositions reflect mathematical knowledge? Why was Schoenberg’s
twelve-tone technique so revolutionary? How does music theory inform Bartok’s
use of folk melodies?
Like the master chef, the master pianist knows and appreciates the
theory behind of music, and applies that knowledge to enrich the performance –
and the listener’s experience.
