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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
Music is a language, like all languages it incorporates a set of characters and symbols to communicate meaning. We use different note symbols to communicate the duration of notes in music. In this article, we will learn about whole notes, half notes and quarter notes. Think about them like basic units of time, almost like …
Beginner rhythm reading: quarter, half, whole notes explained Read More »
The piano and synthesizer are two of the most iconic and versatile instruments in music, each with a unique role in shaping modern sound. However, they differ in many ways. This article will highlight the key differences between a synthesizer vs piano, helping you decide which one suits your musical needs better. What is a …
Synthesizer vs. piano: what is the main difference? Read More »
The Hanon exercises have been a staple of the practice routines of virtuoso pianists for over a century. Originally developed by Charles-Louis Hanon, “The Virtuoso Pianist in Sixty Exercises” is widely celebrated for its ability to enhance finger strength, dexterity, and endurance. No matter if you are a beginner first exploring the Hanon exercises, or …
The benefits of Hanon exercises for piano players Read More »
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