What started as a pandemic workaround has become a powerful, permanent upgrade to how we teach and learn music. I’ll be honest: when I first switched to virtual piano lessons, I was skeptical. Would students stay engaged? Would it be possible to correct technique without being physically present? Would it feel… real? Fast-forward to now—and […]
Ornamentation in music adds expression, excitement, and style to a piece. Whether you’re playing classical piano, jazz, or folk accordion, knowing how to interpret ornaments like arpeggiated notes, grace notes, mordents, and trills is essential. Let’s break down the differences between these commonly used embellishments. 1. Arpeggiated Notes (Arpeggios) What it is: An arpeggio is
One of the most natural ways young students can start to understand music is by thinking of it like a conversation. Just like when we talk to our friends — someone asks a question, and someone else gives an answer — music often follows the same pattern. In piano, we call this idea “question and
When exploring expressive playing in music, we often talk about dynamics, phrasing, and articulation. Two markings that frequently appear—portato and tenuto—can be easily confused, especially for developing musicians. Though they may look similar and are often used in lyrical or legato passages, they each serve a unique purpose. Let’s break them down. What is Tenuto?
Music has been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years, but modern neuroscience is revealing just how deeply it influences our brains. From improving cognitive function to enhancing emotional well-being, studies show that music has profound effects on brain activity. Whether you’re a musician or just a casual listener, understanding the science
If you’ve ever looked closely at a piano keyboard, you might have wondered: why are there fewer black keys than white keys? The answer lies in the science of sound, human perception, and the evolution of Western music. Let’s explore why the keyboard is designed the way it is. 1. The Science of Sound: Frequency
If you’ve ever wondered how composers and songwriters add unexpected color and movement to their music, the answer often lies in secondary dominant chords and the second leading tone. These harmonic tools can create tension, anticipation, and a sense of forward motion, making music feel more dynamic and expressive. In this post, we’ll explore what
If you’ve ever taken a music lesson, you’ve likely heard the word interval thrown around. But what exactly are intervals, and why are they so important? Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced musician, understanding intervals is key to mastering your instrument, improving your ear, and even composing your own music. What Is an Interval?
Learning to play the piano is a journey that requires dedication, patience, and consistent effort. While many students dream of effortlessly playing their favorite pieces, the key to achieving this lies in one simple yet powerful habit – daily practice. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, setting aside time each day to
Music is a language that speaks to the soul, and like any language, it has its nuances and expressions. Among these are crescendo and diminuendo, two Italian terms that signify changes in volume, adding depth and emotion to musical pieces. While the concept might seem intimidating at first, recognizing crescendo and diminuendo can be as