Classical music composition is a timeless and complex craft, requiring a deep understanding of music theory, creativity, and technical skills. Whether you are an aspiring composer seeking to create your first classical masterpiece or an experienced musician looking to refine your craft, books on classical music composition can offer invaluable insights. These books provide comprehensive guidance on everything from the fundamentals of music theory to advanced techniques for orchestration and harmony.

In this article, we will explore eight must-read books that every classical music composer should have in their collection. These guides cover a range of topics, from basic music theory to detailed compositional methods, and are essential for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of classical music composition.

Why Read Books on Classical Music Composition?

Books on classical music composition offer a wealth of knowledge from composers and music theorists who have dedicated their lives to the craft. These resources provide structured learning, making it easier to grasp complex concepts, such as counterpoint, harmony, and orchestration. Moreover, books allow composers to study at their own pace and revisit important topics as they progress.

Whether you are just starting out or are looking to advance your skills, these books will help you develop a deeper appreciation for classical music and improve your compositional techniques.

1. The Study of Orchestration by Samuel Adler

Samuel Adler’s The Study of Orchestration is one of the most comprehensive and widely used textbooks on orchestration. It covers the techniques used to arrange music for different instruments in an orchestra, from string quartets to full symphonies. The book provides detailed explanations of how various instruments work together and includes exercises for practice.

For composers interested in mastering the art of orchestration, this book is an essential resource. Adler’s clear explanations and practical examples make it a valuable tool for both beginners and seasoned composers.

Key Takeaways:

• Comprehensive guide to orchestration techniques.
• Detailed information on instrument ranges and characteristics.
• Includes exercises to practice orchestration.

2. Counterpoint: The Polyphonic Vocal Style of the Sixteenth Century by Knud Jeppesen

Counterpoint is a fundamental aspect of classical music composition, especially in the works of composers like J.S. Bach and Palestrina. Knud Jeppesen’s Counterpoint focuses on the polyphonic vocal style of the 16th century, providing a thorough understanding of how to compose music with multiple independent melodic lines. This book delves into the rules of voice leading and harmony, offering practical exercises and examples from historical works.

For composers looking to explore the intricacies of counterpoint, this book is an excellent starting point.

Key Takeaways:

• Focuses on 16th-century polyphonic vocal counterpoint.
• Explains rules of voice leading and harmony.
• Practical exercises for mastering counterpoint techniques.

3. Harmony by Walter Piston

Walter Piston’s Harmony is a classic text on the principles of harmony in classical music. This book offers a clear and systematic approach to understanding harmony, from basic chord progressions to more complex harmonic structures. Piston’s explanations are easy to follow, making this book suitable for both beginners and those looking to refresh their knowledge of harmony.

Composers who wish to improve their harmonic skills and gain a deeper understanding of tonal music will find this book invaluable.

Key Takeaways:

• Comprehensive guide to the principles of harmony.
• Covers everything from basic chords to advanced harmonic structures.
• Suitable for both beginners and advanced musicians.

4. The Complete Musician: An Integrated Approach to Tonal Theory, Analysis, and Listening by Steven G. Laitz

Steven G. Laitz’s The Complete Musician is an all-encompassing guide to tonal music theory, analysis, and listening. This book integrates concepts of music theory with practical exercises in composition and analysis, making it a great resource for composers who want to develop a well-rounded understanding of classical music. The book covers a wide range of topics, including harmony, counterpoint, and form, providing a holistic approach to music theory.

Laitz’s emphasis on analysis and listening helps composers develop their musical ear, making this book a must-read for anyone serious about classical music composition.

Key Takeaways:

• Integrated approach to music theory, analysis, and listening.
• Covers harmony, counterpoint, and musical form.
• Includes practical exercises and listening examples.

5. The Craft of Musical Composition by Paul Hindemith

Paul Hindemith was a renowned 20th-century composer, and his book The Craft of Musical Composition offers a unique perspective on the compositional process. Hindemith presents his own theories of harmony and counterpoint, blending traditional techniques with modern approaches to composition. His book is divided into two volumes, with the first focusing on harmonic theory and the second on exercises for composition.

For composers looking to explore a more modern approach to classical music composition, Hindemith’s insights are invaluable.

Key Takeaways:

• Modern approach to harmony and counterpoint.
• Blends traditional techniques with contemporary composition methods.
• Includes compositional exercises and practical examples.

6. Gradus ad Parnassum by Johann Joseph Fux

Johann Joseph Fux’s Gradus ad Parnassum is one of the most influential treatises on counterpoint, and it has been studied by composers for centuries. Written in the form of a dialogue between a teacher and student, this book systematically explains the rules of counterpoint, focusing on specific counterpoint as used in the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The book has been used by composers like Haydn, Beethoven, and Mozart.

For composers looking to build a strong foundation in counterpoint, this book is a timeless classic.

Key Takeaways:

• Influential treatise on species counterpoint.
• Studied by many famous composers throughout history.
• Systematic explanation of counterpoint rules and techniques.

7. Twentieth-Century Harmony: Creative Aspects and Practice by Vincent Persichetti

Vincent Persichetti’s Twentieth-Century Harmony explores the harmonic techniques used in 20th-century classical music. This book is an excellent resource for composers who want to break away from traditional tonal harmony and explore more modern approaches to composition. Persichetti covers topics like atonality, polytonality, and extended chords, providing composers with the tools to create innovative and expressive music.

For those interested in composing contemporary classical music, this book offers valuable insights into modern harmonic practices.

Key Takeaways:

• Focuses on 20th-century harmonic techniques.
• Covers atonality, polytonality, and extended chords.
• Ideal for composers interested in modern classical music.

8. Music Composition for Dummies by Scott Jarrett and Holly Day

For beginners looking for an accessible introduction to classical music composition, Music Composition for Dummies is a great starting point. This book covers the basics of composing music, from melody and harmony to rhythm and form. It also provides tips on how to get started with composing and includes practical exercises to help you apply what you’ve learned.

While this book is not exclusively focused on classical music, it offers a solid foundation for aspiring composers who want to learn the basics before diving into more specialised texts.

Key Takeaways:

• Beginner-friendly introduction to music composition.
• Covers melody, harmony, rhythm, and form.
• Practical exercises to help apply compositional concepts.

Must-Read Books on Classical Music Composition

Classical music composition is a rewarding and challenging art form that requires a deep understanding of music theory, harmony, and counterpoint. The books listed in this article provide a comprehensive guide to mastering the techniques and skills needed to compose classical music.

Whether you are just starting your journey as a composer or are looking to refine your skills, these must-read books will help you develop a deeper understanding of classical music and improve your compositional abilities. Each book offers unique insights, from traditional methods to modern approaches, making them essential resources for composers at every level.

Start with the book that matches your current skill level and interests, and continue to build your knowledge and expertise in classical music composition.

Explore your favorite book at your own online bookstore.