Just out of idle curiosity. I went to music school and teach at a local music shop, so I’m very familiar with music theory but I’m aware that my experience is most likely not the norm.
If you are familiar with any theory (even just scales and keys), where did you pick it up? Lots of the resources I’ve seen both in and outside of formal education can be both confusing, and it’s often hard to see the application of what you learn in the short term.
I know a bit. I took music courses all through highshcool. Also did some free self-taught courses when learning guitar which taught me modes. I struggle with identifying chords in a key by ear, but note intervals are pretty easy.
For me theory hasn’t been all that helpful beyond a basic understanding and knowing what others are talking about, and I’ve encountered a lot of people who seem to get hung up on theory details in situations where I would just trust my ears.