Part 2/8:
Cory began his journey through theory as part of his performance degree, heavily relying on the example pieces chosen by his instructors. While these examples are useful, they often idealize concepts taught in theory classes, limiting exposure to real-world music applications. If he could start anew, Cory emphasized that he would immediately begin analyzing songs that resonate with him personally, rather than solely academic examples.
By applying theoretical concepts to the music he loved, he could have uncovered a more realistic understanding of their limitations, ultimately bolstering his comprehension of music. This hands-on approach would have provided insight into various musical styles beyond the European classical framework he initially learned, expanding his musical vocabulary.