Can Music Theory make better Solos?

[fluidguitar]

I was wondering if you need to know music theory to play better solos? 

Edited August 14, 2018 by fluidguitar

[Randy120]

@fluidguitar Nothing is impossible, but I would say theory makes a big difference. I think of it this way. You can learn a few words in a foreign language to get by, but if you really want to be understood you need to be able to speak fluently. Music is language, and we are all learning the musical alphabet and grammar for proper sentence structure to speak coherently.  

[matonanjin]

^^^

Great analogy @Randy120

[DianeB]

@fluidguitar“Need to know music theory to play?” No, as Randy suggests. But do you want to understand what you’re playing, and why? Do want to learn to play your solos in the most time- and physically efficient way possible? Then I say, yes, you need to know a certain amount.

Steve’s Learn and Master course introduces music theory in minimum doses as the lessons progress. You can ignore it, but only for so long, until inevitably you will reach a point where Steve, or other musicians, simply can’t communicate with you. Then, you really will be playing solo.

Don’t let that happen. Learn the scales, intervals, and chords, as much as you can. Here’s a good place to start (I hope).

[Oldjock]

@fluidguitar“Need to know music theory to play?”. I agree with the previous comments but my theory is that we all want to be the best that we can be. The L & M course is complete with theory and songs. It would be a waste to ignore it.

You may have the ability to fly a plane but you must also understand the principles of flight.

Henk

[fluidguitar]

@Randy120 @Oldjock I really like your analogies with language and flying planes! Well I guess there is no way around it then   

[Nutty1]

Music theory is far more logical than the english language?.

I have just learnt something this morning which made me understand why the minor scale sounds different to its relative major. Knowing why is really empowering.

Good luck with your learning fluidguitar, I hope you enjoy learning it as much as I do. Actually I am addicted to it!?

[Plantsman13]

Great answers.  The question that comes to mind, "Could all of those wonderful grandmothers out there have been better cooks if they had received formal training in how to cook"?

I have a strumming guitar course I purchased where all of the sheet music states music by Guitar Guru and Transcribed by Kid in the BackRoom with Musical Training (mock humor intended).  The inability to read and write music has not stopped many great musicians from being the legends they have become.

I believe the ability to communicate with other musicians is a valuable asset to have in your guitar toolbox.  I can't think of many instances it would work against you in a musical situation (except in my case of over-thinking and not letting my ear guide me).

Enjoy your guitar journey,

Bryan