What's the difference between keyboard theory and music theory? I start to learn to play piano, Should I buy keyboard theory book or music theory book?

I have never heard of "keyboard theory" as a separate discipline, so sounds unnecessary to me!

Neither have I, so we'd better try to work out what she's talking about! "Keyboard Harmony" probably? One book describes it as: "Practical application of music theory, including the study of melody harmonisation, broken chords and arpeggios, modulation and improvisation".

Yes, that's a useful thing to study. A Music Theory book will help you discover the basics of notation and how music is put together. You need to do this. Then apply the knowledge in a more practical way with some Keyboard Harmony.

Yes..."Keyboard Theory" usually regards practical application of theory at the keyboard. Harmonizing melodies with various accompaniment patterns, transposition, improvising, and sometimes modulations. They were more popular when those were skills commonly used by church musicians.

Today's required skill is more likely to be playing from a "top line and chord symbols" copy. Not a million miles away from realising figured bass :-)

I have not heard any significant amount of church music in "modern" times. So I know how a church pianist would have gone about her job in, say, the 1960's or 70's but an clueless about contemporary practices.

Esteemed poster Wombat indicates the modern church musician might utilize lead sheets/fake books or similar akin to a jazz of pop music player. Is that the normative state of church music today? Any more details anyone might care to share?

I was really referring to ALL musicians, not particularly church musicians, though I see how my post could have been read that way!

But yes, I reckon a church player today is much more likely to be playing from music with chord symbols rather than figured bass. And transposition remains a constant requirement for ANYONE playing for singers, in any surroundings.

As we all know, churches vary! They'll do just about anything to get people in, from letting youngsters thrash around pretending to be a rock band to traditional hymns for the traditionalists.

But I guess you knew all that already :-)

Are you studying with a teacher? Your teacher will let you know which book he/she prefers.

My students use the theory book that comes with their lesson book, and all the lessons match the theory concepts.

I agree with AZNpiano. Talk to your teacher. If you don't have a teacher. Talk to your music store reps and ask them what the differences are with the particular books you are looking at.

Thank you vey much for all inputs