Pop/Rock Music Theory - Made Simple
Forget stuffy textbooks and endless classical drills — this is music theory the real-world way.
This isn’t theory for theory’s sake — it’s theory you can play. Everything is explained through real-world examples, familiar songs, and practical application you can use right away.
learning outcomes
What You'll Learn
In these lessons, you’ll learn how songs actually work: why certain chords sound great together, how melodies fit over progressions, and how pro musicians think in numbers and patterns rather than notes on a page.
We’ll cover practical, hands-on theory that makes sense the moment you sit down at the piano:
Understanding the chords of the major scale and how to use them in any key
How pros “think in numbers” using the Nashville Number System
The most common pop, rock, and blues chord progressions — and why they work
How songs are grouped in 4s, 8s, and 16s (the secret to solid rhythm and phrasing)
How to connect theory with ear training so you can recognize patterns instantly
WHY Choose marc
Why Choose Marc for Pop/Rock Music Theory - Made Simple Lessons?
Marc Dorian has spent over 25 years performing, writing, and arranging music across genres — from classic rock to modern pop and country. He’s seen firsthand how a strong grasp of practical theory transforms musicians from players of notes into creators of music.
His approach is conversational, clear, and rooted in experience — no jargon, no over-complication. You’ll learn the same musical logic that professional players use every day on stage and in the studio.
Marc’s theory sessions help you connect the dots between chords and creativity — so instead of just memorizing shapes and chords, you’ll understand why they work and how to use them to express yourself at the piano.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to finally “get” what’s going on in your favorite songs or an experienced player ready to fill in the gaps, this is music theory made practical, musical, and fun.
Learn Pop Piano with Marc Dorian
Specializes In:
Simple Steps. Real Results.
How It Works?
🥇 Step 1 — Book Your Free Lesson
Select a time that works for you to schedule your free pop/rock piano lesson with Marc from Learn Pop Piano. Just click one of the black buttons on the website to open the calendar and reserve your spot.
🥈 Step 2 — Join Your Live Lesson
After you’ve scheduled your free lesson, you’ll receive some introductory tips to help you get the most from your first session — plus the Zoom link for our meeting.
TESTIMONIALS
What Students Are Saying
Tom Hundt
"I enjoyed studying with Marc. What I liked about him as a teacher was that because he is a live performer, he can actually demonstrate different styles for you. He is professional, knowledgeable in both theory and practice."
Julie Paul
"I thought you did an excellent job of teaching. I am 100% confident that I can do this! So thanks. You are blessing a lot of people by what you do."
Caryn Hull
"You are witty and entertaining and very skilled at teaching to a variety of levels and interests. You possess many gifts and talents, and I am grateful for stumbling upon you. Your ability to connect with students on a personal level by incorporating their stories into your teaching is a truly unique gift which elevates your style from average to excellent!"
Elnora Sipp
"Marc taught the important info and helped to connect it for use. It has helped me better understand music..."
Bill Patteuw
"Marc is so great at explaining..."
Tina Meltzer-O'Donnell
"Marc is wonderful! Extremely clear, yet personable and funny. One thing I really liked was the clarity of the method; the connections Marc draws to things we already know in popular culture and the building clearly from simple to more complex. Fantastic instructor, very inspiring and motivating."
FAQs
Got Questions? We've Got Answers!
Do I need to know a lot of theory before starting?
Not at all. These lessons are designed to teach theory in a practical way — not expect you to know it already. You’ll learn step by step, using real songs to make each concept click.
Is this the same as classical music theory?
No — this is music theory built for modern players. Instead of memorizing rules and terms, you’ll learn how chords, melodies, and rhythm actually work in pop, rock, and country music. It’s about what you hear and play, not what you’d find in a textbook.
How will learning theory help my playing?
Understanding theory makes everything easier — from learning new songs faster to writing your own music. Once you see how progressions and structures fit together, your playing becomes more confident, creative, and intuitive.
Do I need to read sheet music for this?
Nope! These lessons focus on chord symbols, patterns, and number systems — just like the pros use. You’ll learn to think musically, not mechanically, and apply theory directly to your instrument.
Learning theory the real-world way helps you connect the dots between what you hear and what you play. Marc makes it simple and engaging — turning concepts into sounds you can use right away and giving you the confidence to play with creativity and purpose.
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