Fear not! Just because there’s no sheet music doesn’t mean there’s no music theory. Contemporary musicians don’t generally work from scores or notation—their innate musicianship provides the basis of their work in the studio and on stage, and while performing solo and with groups. For the typical music educator, this is a bit outside the comfort zone. No worries! Technology tools can help bridge the gap between ‘conservatory training’ and the music theory facility needed for pop music and modern band. We’ll explore tools that can help build concrete aural and theory skills, and help students transition easily from lead sheets, tabs, and graphic notation to traditional notation. Did you know that most notation software can convert to and from tablature (tabs)? This is just the beginning of the power of technology. For students who have never read music, DAW software provides intuitive graphic ‘piano roll’ notation plus scaffolding for performance, practice tracks, composition and studio recording skills. Music theory and ear training software apps and websites include traditional, jazz & pop notation, nomenclature, and essential skills. These powerful tools can help your students connect aural skills and performing skills with most any type of music notation. The outcome will help foster independent musicianship and life-long enjoyment of music making.