This hands-on introduction to the fundamentals of music theory presents the subject in a user-friendly format so that students immediately are comfortable with the material. The organization and presentation of chapter topics revolve around essential principles explained and reinforced with problems for students to solve. The book does not simply present basic theory; rather, it guides students using a visual step-by-step process that anticipates and answers their questions. Highlights of the second edition include an improved and streamlined approach to pedagogy; homework assignments; worksheets with answers at the end of each chapter; and an innovative hybrid methodology that addresses both traditional and programmatic learning styles.