The Society for Music Theory promotes the development of and engagement with music theory as a scholarly and pedagogical discipline. We construe this discipline broadly as embracing all approaches, from conceptual to practical, and all perspectives, including those of the scholar, listener, composer, performer, teacher, and student. The Society is committed to fostering diversity, inclusivity, and gender equity in the field.
The SMT seeks to promote the highest standards in music theory scholarship and education through a host of activities, including:
- Publishing three scholarly journals—Music Theory Spectrum (subscription included with membership); MTO (an open-access electronic journal); SMT-V (a free video journal); and SMT-Pod (a free podcast journal)—as well as a biannual informational Newsletter.
- Holding an annual scholarly conference that features presentations, special sessions, and workshops.
- Promoting music theory scholarship through various awards and grants.
- Functioning as a liaison to various music theory Interest Groups and to independently run regional music theory societies.
- Maintaining electronic announcement and discussion lists.
- Providing information and help to the music community through an events list.
Who Can Join the SMT?
Our Society includes among its members not only scholars, teachers, and students of music theory, but also performers, composers, scholars in related areas (such as musicology, ethnomusicology, philosophy, media studies, cognitive science, and the like), as well as all music enthusiasts who have a deep interest in the field of music theory. We welcome the study of all types of musical styles and approaches to music theory and analysis. All those who enjoy engaging with music theory are invited to join our community of musicians who are passionate about this subject!
Although based in North America, the SMT proudly includes among its members people from Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia. To encourage those from all countries to join, we offer discounted dues for those living outside of North America. We also offer discounted dues for student members, as well subsidized membership fees to those for whom the full dues would prove a financial hardship. Please see our membership page for dues rates and for information on how to join, and feel free to contact us should you have any questions about membership.
The Society for Music Theory is a member of the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS).
The Society for Music Theory is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization; donations to the SMT are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.