Do you know how to identify the value of the notated silences known as ‘rests’ when reading sheet music? While listening to a song, it’s common to overlook the pauses and silences, as your ear naturally gravitates towards active elements like lyrics, catchy melodies, or rhythms. Rests contribute significantly to music’s structure and expression. Understanding …
Understanding rests in music and their role in notation Read More »
Bebop scales are a secret weapon in the arsenal of jazz musicians. These scales bridge the gap between complex harmonic theory and fluid improvisation. What exactly are bebop scales and how can you use them to create that swinging jazz sound? In this article we will dive deep into the theory behind bebop scales, explore …
Bebop scales and how to use them? 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 »
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 »
Piano accompaniment plays a crucial role in music, providing a strong, supportive base for soloists, ensembles, and vocalists. It adds depth and texture to a performance, complementing the main melody while enhancing the overall sound. Mastering piano accompaniment requires learning various techniques and patterns that seamlessly blend with the lead part, creating a cohesive musical …
What is piano accompaniment and how to master it? Read More »
A melody is one of the basic elements of music. Melodies are the part of music that is above the chords and rhythm. They can come in many shapes and sizes, and can have lyrics or be instrumental. They can be played very high, or very low. We can hear them played by instruments like …
What is melody in music: understanding its essence Read More »
Harmony is one of the basic building blocks of music. Chords and chord progression have a profound emotional impact on the way we experience music and the tendencies of chords have been well studied. But what happens when we flip harmony on its head? Enter negative harmony, a concept that’s been creating a buzz among …
What is negative harmony in music? Read More »
The term “canon in music” brings to mind the timeless beauty of Baroque-era compositions, where melodies interlock and overlap in a delicate balance. But many musicians might wonder what is a canon in music, exactly? The canon is an old musical form, which developed out of the practice of counterpoint, and has captivated listeners and …
What is canon in music ? Read More »
Hemiola, a term deeply rooted in the world of music theory, is a rhythmic device that adds a unique dimension to musical compositions. It involves the presentation of two bars of triple meter as if they were three bars of duple meter. This intriguing rhythmic phenomenon plays with the listener’s perception, creating an engaging and …
What is a hemiola in music and how to use it? Read More »
The tritone, a term that sparks both intrigue and bewilderment among music enthusiasts and learners alike, stands as a pivotal element in the realm of music theory. This musical interval, enigmatic yet fundamental, has shaped the landscape of music across various genres and eras. But what exactly is a tritone in music, and why does …
What is the tritone? The fear of church music Read More »
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