The song ‘Happy Birthday’ was written in 1893 by Patty and Mildred Hill – two sisters who were school teachers. The tune was originally called ‘Good Morning To All’ and it was written for the school students to sing every morning to start their day. Mildred Hill, who wrote the music, was born in Louisville, …
Learn to play “Happy Birthday” on piano: a beginner’s tutorial Read More »
Music is often described as the universal language, capable of conveying emotions and feelings beyond the limitations of spoken words. In piano performance, this sentiment is particularly evident, as the pianist’s ability to express musical feeling can significantly impact the interpretation and delivery of a piece. The role of musical feeling in piano performance cannot …
The role of musical feeling in piano performance Read More »
Piano tuning is an art that marries precision with passion, a skill that transforms the mere striking of keys into a harmonious cascade of sound. It’s a crucial aspect of piano maintenance, ensuring that each note resonates with clarity and accuracy. For those embarking on the journey of learning piano, understanding the fundamentals of piano …
How to tune a piano? a guide to perfect piano intonation Read More »
Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons remains one of the most iconic works in classical music to this day. Composed in the early 18th century this set of violin concertos vividly portrays the shifting moods and imagery of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. Vivaldi’s genius for capturing the essence of nature through music has ensured the …
Vivaldi’s four seasons: history and audience reception Read More »
The piano trill is a fascinating and intricate aspect of piano playing that has enchanted both players and listeners alike. This musical element, steeped in history and artistry, is more than just a technique; it’s a gateway to understanding the nuances and expressiveness inherent in piano music. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the …
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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 »
Ear training is the art of honing one’s ability to recognize chuches, intervals, melodies, and chords solely by ear. It’s like developing a sixth sense for music, allowing pianists to play not just with their fingers but with their ears as well. Through a series of carefully crafted exercises, piano ear training opens doors to …
How to train your ears: ear training exercises and quiz 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 »
The glissando is a fundamental technique frequently found in piano music, offering a distinctive and expressive element that adds depth to compositions. This article provides an in-depth look at the glissando, discussing its history, significance, and application in both classical and modern piano pieces. Aimed at pianists of all skill levels, the guide will cover …
What is a glissando and how to play it on piano? Read More »
In music, tempo markings such as allegro, andante, and moderato, typically located at the beginning of a score, are crucial for determining the piece’s speed. These terms, integral to musical notation, indicate both the original tempo and any changes throughout the composition. Historically, tempo markings were used to denote specific dance styles or as titles, …
Tempo markings: Introduction to musical tempos Read More »
Suspended chords, often abbreviated as “sus” in music, represent a fascinating and unique element within the tapestry of musical harmony. Unlike traditional chords, which are firmly rooted in a sense of resolution, suspended chords introduce an air of anticipation and unresolved tension, adding a distinct color and emotional depth to musical compositions. At their core, …
What is a suspended chord in music? From basic to advanced Read More »
You may be surprised to know that there are different musical terms for the same musical concepts and ideas in different parts of the world. While the language of music is universal, as societies evolve and change, their dialects inevitably change as well. Such is the case between British and American musical terms. It’s fascinating …
British vs American musical terms: what is the difference? Read More »
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