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 and maintain …
What are the different types of time signatures in piano music? Read More »
Ever heard a song with a strange, beautiful harmony that felt unique and sophisticated? Chances are, polychords had something to do with it. Polychords are a secret weapon that can add rich layers and harmonic variation to any piece of music. In this guide, we will break down polychords, teach you how to play them …
Polychords: playing multiple chords together Read More »
Learning to read notes on the treble clef staff is one of the most important skills for a pianist to master. Treble clef, also known as G clef, is commonly used to notate melodies and chords that are intended to be played with the right hand. In this article, we will learn all the secrets …
A guide to the treble clef: understanding music notation Read More »
Have you ever listened to a piece of music where every note seems to glide effortlessly into the next as if they were made for each other? That seamless, natural flow isn’t accidental, it’s a musical concept known as voice leading. Whether you’re working through classical masterpieces or modern pop hits, understanding voice leading will …
What is voice leading? Read More »
Have you ever heard a song and been captivated by its smooth transitions or groovy bassline? You’ve already experienced the magic of slash chords. These versatile musical tools are the secret behind many iconic pieces. Slash chords add depth and emotion that elevates simple chord progressions to breathtaking compositions. What exactly are slash chords and …
Slash chords: what are they and how to use them? Read More »
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 »
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 »
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