Learning to play the piano by ear is a valuable skill that allows you to connect with music in a deeper, more intuitive way. Instead of relying solely on sheet music, playing by ear enables you to hear melodies, chord progressions and rhythm and recreate it on the piano. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced …
How to play piano by ear? Read More »
Ever heard a song with a strange, beautiful harmony that felt unique and sophisticated? Chances are, polychords had something to do with it. Polychords are a secret weapon that can add rich layers and harmonic variation to any piece of music. In this guide, we will break down polychords, teach you how to play them …
Polychords: playing multiple chords together 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 …
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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 »
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 »
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 »
Piano accompaniment plays a crucial role in music, providing a strong, supportive base for soloists, ensembles, and vocalists. It adds depth and texture to a performance, complementing the main melody while enhancing the overall sound. Mastering piano accompaniment requires learning various techniques and patterns that seamlessly blend with the lead part, creating a cohesive musical …
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Jazz is an interesting and often intimidating genre for many beginning pianists to approach. The harmonies are generally more advanced, the rhythms are more syncopated, and the improvisatory nature of the music may be difficult for some students. However, learning jazz standards is a time-tested method of approaching jazz music on the piano. For beginner …
Top 10 easy jazz standards for beginners Read More »
The world of piano chords is vast and exciting. Essentially anytime you play more than two notes on the piano, you are playing a chord. We can use chords to express so much in music, from subtle textures to intense and emotional thunderstorms. In this article, we will explore how we can use music theory …
Piano chord inversions: theory and playing guide Read More »
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