There is no longer a placement test for the music theory curriculum; instead we invite students to identify the right course for them by using our self-placement guide, and in consultation with the course instructors.
In addition to the more detailed information on the self-placement guide, the following summaries may be useful:
For a broad introduction to the study of music theory, or review of basic music theory topics, try MUSI 110. This course does not require prior knowledge of music notation or music-theory concepts, though it does require students to sing. Topics include names and structures of chords, modes, and scales; Roman-numeral and lead-sheet harmony; key signatures, time signatures, and clefs; and solfege.
For approaches to analyzing commercial and popular music in the contemporary idiom, try MUSI 207.
For a more traditional approach to classical counterpoint, part writing, and analysis, try MUSI 210.
For analytical and theoretical approaches to 19th- and 20th-century music, including chromaticism and modulation, try MUSI 216.
For a piano keyboard-based musicianship class focusing on score reading, harmonization, and improvisation, try MUSI 217. Note: this course requires access to a personal piano or electronic/midi keyboard.
For a hearing & singing-based musicianship focusing on sight reading, aural identification, and dictation/transcription, try MUSI 218 (basic) or MUSI 219 (intermediate).
If questions remain, contact Nathaniel Adam (nathaniel.adam@yale.edu) or Anna Zayaruznaya (anna.zayaruznaya@yale.edu).