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MODUS Foundation studies

Start with the foundations

The theory articles are the lessons. Use the study route as an optional reading order, or choose a topic yourself.

Begin with Notes and intervals.

Start from the beginning
  1. 01

    Notes and intervals: the building blocks of music

    Begin with note names, distance and listening.

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  2. 02

    Major and minor: one note makes the difference

    Use intervals to hear the third in a chord.

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  3. 03

    Build the chords in a key

    Move from triads to chords within one key.

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  4. 04

    The circle of fifths: a map of related keys

    Connect keys and chord roots.

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  5. 05

    Roman numerals: the chords behind the numbers

    Describe chord positions before transposing.

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  6. 06

    Triads: from the root to the chord’s three notes

    Explore chord tones and bass before more complex harmony.

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  7. 07

    From scales to your first improvisation

    Use a few familiar notes in your own phrase.

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  8. 08

    Seventh chords: more colour, the same foundation

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  9. 09

    ii–V–I: why chords want to go home

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  10. 10

    One scale pattern, new target notes

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  11. 11

    Modes: the centre matters more than the starting note

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  12. 12

    Diatonic modes: one note system, seven musical perspectives

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  13. 13

    Dorian and Aeolian: same tonic, new colour

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  14. 14

    Voice leading: the shortest path between chords

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  15. 15

    Harmonic minor and Phrygian dominant

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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  16. 16

    Rhythm in 7/8: groups that feel natural

    Build on the preceding topics. Try the exercise and make your own variation.

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Opened does not mean read. Quiz status records the actual quiz result, not automatic mastery. The next step is always available; understanding is your own assessment.

16 complete English articles are included here. The Norwegian library has 52 articles. See the extended Norwegian T1–T10 map.