Best Beginner Music Theory Book?

[nickadams]

What is the best book for a beginner to learn music theory? I have zero experience and zero musical knowledge but I want to eventually learn how to sight read music.

Suggestions?

[pianoplayjl]

If you're an Aussie, I suggest Dulcie Holland's 'master you theory grade 1'. That shouldn't be too hard for you, although it is not 'beginner level.'

[1piano4joe]

There is a series of five theory books by Bastien.

Primer
Book 1
Book 2
Book 3
Book 4

I highly recommend this series and it coordinates very nicely with their other method books.

Primer has 4 method books and

Levels 1 through 4 have 5  method books.

For Example:

Level 1 Theory
Level 1 Sight Reading
Level 1 Piano
Level 1 Technique
Level 1 Repertoire

While this is not an "Adult Piano Course" do not let that persuade you.  You will move swiftly through the series developing your skills and can always supplement with whatever else you choose.

[sdepouw]

I don't know about books, but I do know that Ricci Adams' web site is a superb resource for learning basic music theory. I've personally used it a ton.

[jeanrhall]

If you have zero knowledge and you have a passion for learning music, then you go for Music Theory for Dummies. In this book, you can get all valuable hints and tricks. Also, different tunes, harmonies, and chords are mentioned and also provides teaching practices, illustrations, and categories of latest music.

[j_tour]

If it's just scales+modes (of harmonic minor, ascending melodic minor), Dan Haerle's short book can't be beat.

The others, the only ones I have clear recollection are Walter Piston's Harmony and I still enjoy reading Schoenberg's textbook (all the basics, augmented sixths, lots of good examples from the literature).