When learning music theory it often seems like a maze of rules, but it can also be the key to unleashing your creativity. One such fascinating topic in music theory is parallel scales. By mastering these piano scales, you can seamlessly shift the mood of your music, add emotional depth and expand your musical palette. …
Parallel scales: what are they and how to use them? Read More »
Introduction Time signatures are a fundamental part of music notation, directing pianists on the rhythm and structure of each bar. They specify both the number of beats per measure and the note value that counts as one beat. Understanding time signatures allows pianists to grasp a piece’s rhythmic foundation, interpret a score accurately, maintain grooves …
What are the different types of time signatures in piano music? Read More »
When you sit in front of a grand piano your eyes are drawn not only to the keys but also to the three pedals at your feet. These pedals play a crucial role in shaping the sound and expression of the piano. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced pianist, understanding the functions of these …
Piano pedals: what they are and how to utilize them? Read More »
The world of piano music is expansive and constantly evolving. Unlike the traditional classical repertoire that has long been a staple, contemporary piano introduces a fresh, dynamic, and innovative way of engaging with the instrument. Spanning styles from minimalism to avant-garde, this genre has gained significant popularity, attracting both beginners and experienced musicians alike. Its …
What is contemporary piano and how to play it? Read More »
Understanding the notes on a piano is a bit like learning a language – it might take a bit of time at first, but once you’ve mastered how it all works you’ll be able to play whatever you want! This early effort is crucial as it builds the foundation for musical expression, allowing you to …
Piano notes: a beginner’s guide to reading music Read More »
Have you ever noticed that special moment in a song when the harmony unexpectedly shifts, bringing a heroic, uplifting or even mysterious feeling to the piece? This effect often comes from a harmonic technique called modal interchange. Also known as borrowed chords, modal interchange allows composers to pull from different musical modes or scales, adding …
The magic of modal interchange: borrowing chords from other scales Read More »
The piano sonata has long been a cornerstone of classical music, offering profound emotional depth and technical complexity. For pianists, sonatas present both a demanding challenge and a chance for deep artistic expression. Over the centuries, composers have shaped and evolved this form, creating timeless masterpieces. In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 …
Top 10 piano sonatas Read More »
Modes are part of the basic building blocks of Western music theory. If you’ve ever heard a music teacher talk about modes you may well have noticed that they all have Greek names. These musical modes come from the earliest days of music history. Put simply, a mode is a type of scale, just like …
Musical modes: what are they and how do they function? Read More »
Thanksgiving is a heartwarming time of the year, filled with gratitude, family gatherings and delicious meals shared with loved ones. It’s a season where warmth and togetherness shine, making it the perfect occasion to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a large family feast or enjoying a quiet evening with close friends, music …
10 heartwarming Thanksgiving songs to play on piano Read More »
You have just bought your first digital piano. Congratulations! Having an instrument of your own that you can practice on is a great decision. Relying on borrowed instruments or your computer keyboard to learn the piano is not an ideal situation. There are many different varieties of digital pianos and they all arrive in various …
Setting up your new digital piano Read More »
Have you ever felt like your chords sound too simple or flat? Incorporating extended chords on piano can transform your music by adding depth and complexity. Chord extensions go beyond basic triads and seventh chords, introducing richer harmonies that elevate your playing. Essential in genres like jazz, classical, and contemporary music, extended chords bring emotional …
Chord extensions: ninths, elevenths, and thirteenths on piano Read More »
Ever noticed those two stacked numbers at the beginning of sheet music and wondered what they mean? They’re called time signatures, and understanding them is essential for keeping the beat and making music. Let’s explore how they help musicians play, read, and interpret music more effectively. What are time signatures? Time signatures, or meter, are …
The basics of time signatures: a beginner’s guide Read More »
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