The Ionian mode is the backbone of Western music. Bright, happy and melodic, it’s a key ingredient in countless compositions, from timeless classical pieces to contemporary pop hits. Whether you’re just beginning your piano journey or looking to deepen your understanding of music theory, mastering the Ionian mode is a fantastic step forward. In this …
What is the Ionian mode on piano? 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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Comparing 9 best piano learning apps Read More »
Once again, it’s holiday season! Another year has flown by and hopefully you’ve been practicing the piano and increasing your sight reading skills and the number of songs you can play. Now is one of the best times to set about learning new Christmas songs on the piano. Even if you are a complete beginner, Christmas …
Top 4 easy Christmas piano songs Read More »
Dotted notes are a fundamental concept in music theory, playing a crucial role in shaping the rhythm and structure of musical compositions. They introduce a level of rhythmic complexity that enhances the expressiveness of music. What are dotted notes? A dotted note is a musical notation that indicates a note should be played for a …
The comprehensive guide to dotted notes in music Read More »
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 …
Rest symbols in music: notating silence Read More »
When you play a piece of music, at the beginning, you might see a set of sharps or flats. These symbols are more than just markings, they’re key signatures. A key signature reveals not only which notes will be sharp or flat, but also sets the stage for the entire piece by defining its key …
Key signatures in music: a comprehensive guide Read More »
Recording your piano playing on record isn’t just about preserving memories, it’s about progress, reflection and sharing your talent with the world. Whether you’re a beginner aiming to track improvement or an experienced pianist compiling a portfolio, knowing how to record piano on phone, tablet or computer simply and effectively is a valuable skill. This …
6 simple steps to record piano playing Read More »
Learning to play the piano is a fantastic experience. Having the right accessories will go a long way to making your performance and enjoyment of the piano that much better. In this article, we will explore the world of piano accessories and check out five items that every pianist should have in their setup. No …
The top 5 piano accessories every pianist needs Read More »
Microtones are a unique and intriguing aspect of music that many musicians may not be aware of. Unlike traditional Western music, which typically divides the octave into twelve equal parts (semitones), microtones involve intervals smaller than a semitone. This allows for a richer and more nuanced exploration of pitch, creating unique textures and emotional expressions …
The role of microtones in piano music Read More »
Many beginner pianists wonder ‘what is the hardest song to play on piano’? The truth is, if you ask 10 pianists, you might get 10 different answers! From rock to pop to classical to soul and RnB, we have compiled this list of 10 of the hardest songs to play on piano. Whether you favor …
Top 10 hardest piano songs ever Read More »
Rubato is a subtle and powerful technique in music. Derived from the Italian work rubare meaning “to steal”, rubato is an expressive technique where musicians deviate from the strict timing of a piece, creating a more emotional interpretation. Rubato has been a cornerstone of musical expression since at least the Romantic era and is essential …
How to play rubato on the piano? Read More »
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