It’s the holiday season! Another year has flown by and hopefully you’ve been practicing the piano, increasing your skills and the number of songs you can play. Now you’re getting in the Christmas mood, it’s the best time to set about learning new holiday songs on the piano, ready to impress for the festive season. …
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At a glance A dotted note has a small dot after it that adds half its value to its length, the dot equals half the original note. Whole · 6 Half · 3 Quarter · 1½ Eighth · ¾ Sixteenth · ⅜ Compound time: in 6/8, 9/8 and 12/8, a dotted note is the main …
Dotted notes in music: How to count and play them 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 …
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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 »
What’s the hardest piano song ever written? Ask ten pianists and you’ll probably get ten different answers, and each one might be right. Some pieces challenge even the most advanced players, with complex rhythms, wide hand spans, and incredible speed. What feels “hard” often depends on your own experience and style. A piece that seems …
What are the hardest songs to play on piano? Read More »
Rubato is a slight and powerful technique in music. Derived from the Italian work rubato, meaning “to steal”, rubato is an expressive technique where musicians deviate from the strict timing of a piece. It is not playing out of time. It is often felt like a pushing or pulling of the pulse, speeding up or …
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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 »
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 »
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 …
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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 »
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 …
How to play chord extensions with ninth, eleventh and thirteenth 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 main differences explained Read More »
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