Musicnotes

15 Best Classic Country Songs to Learn on Guitar

Country music has become a staple of the American musical diet. The genre draws inspiration from different music styles, including folk, rock, soul, and blues, but it has a distinct and memorable style. One of its best traits is that it offers a wide range of great tunes for budding

Editor Picks Featured

How To Read Sheet Music: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wondering how to read sheet music? In this article, we give a full introduction to the language of music and free tools for your music journey.

10 Beautiful First Dance Country Songs to Play at Weddings

Nothing sets the mood for a wedding's first dance like the song that eclipses other additions to the evening's playlist. Choosing the song most worthy of the newlyweds' first dance is a defining moment that obliges much consideration. We're here to ensure yours

Free Song for June: He Loves and She Loves

This month, we're excited to offer you a classic piece of music history for free! "He Loves and She Loves," composed by George Gershwin with lyrics by Ira Gershwin, originally written in 1927, is our free sheet music pick for June. Why You’ll Love It:

6 of the Most Interesting Musical Instruments From Around the World

In Western music, we frequently leverage the familiar sounds of instruments like the guitar, bass, piano, drums, and trumpet. Yet, these are just the beginning when it comes to instruments. Here's a glimpse into world music, highlighting some of the most unique and captivating instruments from diverse cultures

Ins & Outs of Using an Amp

By Shawn Leonhardt for Guitar Tricks and 30 Day Singer There is already so much to cover in your beginner guitar lessons. Then, you need to add technology if you want any chance of altering your sound or being heard! If you want to perform or gig, it will be

Behind The Notes Episode 9: The Art of Solfege

We're excited to announce our latest podcast episode, where Lucas and Jillian delve into the world of solfege. This timeless musical tool has been used by musicians for centuries to improve their singing and instrumental skills. Whether you're a singer looking to improve your pitch accuracy

7 Ways Classical Music Positively Affects the Brain

Music is a great way to reset and relax when stress creeps in. With each beat and melody, it becomes easier to let your mind unwind, and different styles of music can have different effects. The connection between classical music and the brain can be beneficial for listeners. Check out

Music Theory

Download and Print Piano Scales & Arpeggios For Free!

We're excited to share some more free educational materials to help you and your students learn all about scales and arpeggios! Now, you can download a variety of learning print-outs, including the Major Scales, Diminished Triad Arpeggios and more. Simply click on the ones you want to download,

10 Emotional Songs to Learn on Piano and Guitar

Playing music can accomplish many things: express an idea, tell a story, or evoke strong emotions in people. The piano and guitar are two of the best instruments for evoking a heartfelt reaction to that last goal. Learning to bring emotion out of an audience starts with mastering the instrument

music history

The Violinist’s Violinist: 10 Things Aspiring Musicians Should Know About Fritz Kreisler

Fritz Kreisler, a master of the violin repertoire, crafted compositions that are benchmarks for violinists. He is considered one of the greatest violinists of all time, captivating audiences with his artistry and technique. Kreisler’s performances were noted for expressive phrasing and a rich, lyrical tone. He also composed several

Free Song for May: Carolina Moon

"Carolina Moon" is a popular song about longing for the one you love by the light of the "dreamy Carolina moon." This lovely song was written in 1924 by Joe Burke and Benny Davis and has been recorded by popular artists such as The Chordettes, Perry

The Greatest Jazz Vocalists You've Never Heard Of

By Mitch Wilson for 30 Day Singer and Guitar Tricks With its rich history and evolving nature, jazz music has given us some of the most unforgettable voices in the music world. It's a genre where the voice serves as a medium of storytelling and an instrument, intertwining

Behind The Notes Episode 8: Julia Simpson: Violinist/Student/Product Data Specialist

On this episode of "Behind the Notes," we're excited to introduce Julia Simpson. Julia is a valuable member of the Musicnotes team, serving as our Product Data and Merchandising Specialist. She brings a wealth of experience to the table, having graduated from Oklahoma State University with

Musical Theater

45 Beyoncé Songs To Use At Your Next Audition

If you're interested in singing one of Beyoncé's songs at an upcoming audition, make sure you check out these recommendations!

taylor swift

'The Tortured Poets Department': New Album and Sheet Music from Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift released her highly anticipated album The Tortured Poets Department on April 19. This double album consists of 16 songs originally announced for the album, and a surprise 15 songs on The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology. The large musical work delves into personal stories from Taylor's

jazz

Traditional vs Contemporary Jazz: Characteristics of Each

For 100 years, jazz has been a pillar of American music. The genre was groundbreaking when it emerged in the first part of the 20th century, blending different styles and embracing a unique style of playing and musical expression. Musicians, vocalists and composers learned how to be a part of

Behind The Notes Episode 7: The Art of Private Teaching/Digital Music Books/Mozart Sonata no. 11

In this episode, Lucas and Jillian explore the ups and downs of being a private music teacher, the advantages of the new Musicnotes Digital Music Books, and our free song of the month, Mozart Piano Sonata no. 11, I. Andante Grazioso. Listen here: Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music YouTube For

music history

What is R&B? Defining the Ultimate Genre

When it comes to recorded music, few genres are as influential, as enduring, and as cool as R&B. The genre is beloved for characteristics such as soulful vocals, catchy melodies, polished production, relatable lyrics, and more. Many of the world’s best-selling artists, including Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston,

tin pan south

2024 Tin Pan South on the Musicnotes Stage

Musicnotes had another great year sponsoring the Analog stage at the annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival in Nashville! This festival, organized by Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), showcases the great songwriters of country music. Let's take a look at the highlights of the week's shows

trumpet

7 Challenging Wynton Marsalis Songs (For Trumpet)

There are many great names in the world of jazz music, but few composers have as much influence as Wynton Marsalis. This living legend is an educator, a composer, and a master trumpeter. He plays his instrument with an expert blend of technicality, musicality, and a respect for the traditions

Musical Theater

23 Audition Songs For 'Legally Blonde'

Find out what songs you should consider the next time you're auditioning for 'Legally Blonde'!

sheet music

Free Song for April: "Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331: 1. Andante Grazioso (Theme)"

The first movement in Mozart’s Piano Sonata No. 11, Andante grazioso is a beautifully peaceful theme and variation. This piece is perfect for springtime, and it’s yours for free all April long! 🎵 Download "Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331: 1. Andante Grazioso (Theme)"

Behind The Notes

Behind The Notes Episode 6: Jarrod Radnich - Composer, Pianist, Conductor, Educator

Often compared with Franz Liszt, pianist and composer Jarrod Radnich has captured the top position on YouTube for solo piano performance, is considered “the most popular pianist in the world" and ranked #1 for instrumental artists globally by ReverbNation, has been featured at the Emmy Awards and on NBC’

Music Theory

The Magic and Ease of Power Chords

Not sure what a "power cord" is? Find out now!