music history - Musicnotes

music history

A collection of 39 posts

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

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

image: piano and saxophone; article: Traditional vs Contemporary 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

image: microphone article: What is R&B? Defining the Ultimate Genre

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,

Image: person holding a trumpet; Article: 7 Challenging Wynton Marsalis Trumpet Songs

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

modern blues music

Elements of Modern Blues Music: Characteristics & Artists

Blues music is alive and well, as shown by the modern blues music that is growing in popularity every year. What does the blues have to offer that keeps it current? While younger blues artists are bringing exciting new elements to the genre, don't underestimate the emotional power

What are the Origins of Jazz? 11 Must-Know Facts

What are the Origins of Jazz? 11 Must-Know Facts

Learning about the origins of jazz means uncovering its birthplace, influences, and key historical moments, illuminating the early development and evolution of this iconic musical genre. Discover the cultures that influenced jazz musicians and big bands over the years, shaping a new wave of jazz music every few decades. Then,

Where It All Began: Learning the Rich History of Blues

Where It All Began: Learning the Rich History of Blues

American music is a rich tapestry of different genres and influences that have come together to make something beautiful. Few styles of music embody that idea as much as the blues. The genre started as the result of several types of music and cultures and has evolved into a distinct

Image: trumpet; Article: Eight of the Best Miles Davis Songs to Learn on Trumpet

Eight of the Best Miles Davis Songs to Learn on Trumpet

What comes to mind when you hear the name Miles Davis? Bebop? Cool jazz? Fusion? It could be all that and more. Davis is one of the most important jazz musicians of the 20th century and deserves the accolades attached to his name. Miles Davis’ trumpet improvisations are legendary, as

The Most Iconic Album Covers That Impacted the World

The Most Iconic Album Covers That Impacted the World

With this infographic, check out some of the greatest album covers that made an impact on the music industry and world!

Origins of Modern Music: What is the History of R&B?

Origins of Modern Music: What is the History of R&B?

Rhythm and blues, or R&B, is a style of music that has been popular for over 80 years, leaving an indelible mark on music, pop culture, and the public consciousness. Several of the biggest recording artists of all time have been R&B artists such as Michael

What is Blues Music? Defining a Legendary Genre

What is Blues Music? Defining a Legendary Genre

What is the blues? Blues is a cornerstone of American musical heritage that has influenced music and artists worldwide. Definition of Blues Originating in the Southern U.S. close to the 20th century, blues is a musical style with certain characteristics such as soulful melodies, moving lyrics, and unique harmonic

The Rise of Rock: The Evolution of a Musical Genre

The Rise of Rock: The Evolution of a Musical Genre

Here's your chance to learn all about the evolution of rock music!

The History of the Guitar, Piano, Violin and Trumpet

The History of the Guitar, Piano, Violin and Trumpet

Learn all about the history of these four iconic instruments!

Picture & Sound: Five Best Film Composers All Time

Picture & Sound: Five Best Film Composers All Time

It's hard to imagine Star Wars without the music. That iconic opening theme that plays under the title instantly transports the audience to a galaxy far, far away. That is the job of film scores; to help the movie tell the story more convincingly, more believably. Fortunately for

Eight Iconic Bernard Herrmann Film Scores You Should Hear Before You Die

Eight Iconic Bernard Herrmann Film Scores You Should Hear Before You Die

Imagine a world where film scores and soundtracks don’t exist. It would be analogous to eating food that had no seasoning. Movie audiences might miss out on critical moments without music to highlight them. Viewers might not feel a deep and meaningful connection to the characters and themes. Music

7 Epic James Horner Film Scores With Sweeping Themes

7 Epic James Horner Film Scores With Sweeping Themes

Movies have the ability to move us and to get us to believe in characters we've never met. One reason for that is the use of music. Film scores and soundtracks add atmosphere to movies in a magical way, making the film composer one of the most important

25 Alan Silvestri Film Scores To Boost Your Love of Music, Movies, and More

25 Alan Silvestri Film Scores To Boost Your Love of Music, Movies, and More

When you think of the world’s most popular movies, you tend to think about the strength of the acting performances, the direction, the cinematography, and, in some cases, the incredible special effects. From dramas to comedies to action-packed thrillers, the best films inspire a strong emotional response from audiences.

The Best Film Scores From The Groundbreaking Composer Rachel Portman

The Best Film Scores From The Groundbreaking Composer Rachel Portman

With a career that spans decades and a portfolio that includes some of the most popular films of all time, Rachel Portman has earned her place as a legendary and iconic composer. With a deft touch that can evoke the deepest emotions, Rachel Portman’s film scores have left an

The Modern, Minimalist Movies Scores of Philip Glass

The Modern, Minimalist Movies Scores of Philip Glass

Philip Glass was a pioneer of the avant-garde music movement of the 1960s. His use of repetitive structures eventually led to critics labeling his scores "minimalism." Glass never cared for the term himself. And indeed, his output is anything but minimalist. He has composed hundreds of concert pieces

10 Most Effective Thomas Newman Film Scores

10 Most Effective Thomas Newman Film Scores

Thomas Newman’s specialty is creating film scores that convey the perfect mix of emotions, set the mood for what’s coming, tickle the senses, and give a sense of continuity and finality. His talent and whimsicality have led him to become one of today’s most prominent film score

From Marvel to Planet of the Apes: 7 Captivating Film Scores of Michael Giacchino

From Marvel to Planet of the Apes: 7 Captivating Film Scores of Michael Giacchino

Michael Giacchino is one of the most sought-after film composers in the industry today. For many, he is the obvious successor to the throne that was held by the great John Williams for decades. Giacchino is a prolific composer, once scoring five films in a single year. His work in

Between Drama and Fantasy: Four Most Versatile Film Scores of Howard Shore

Between Drama and Fantasy: Four Most Versatile Film Scores of Howard Shore

After studying at Berklee College of Music, Canadian composer Howard Shore launched his storied career as the music director for Saturday Night Live in 1975. This experience introduced him to many of the artistic luminaries in New York City at that time and opened doors for future collaborations. His first

film clapper board, headphones

A Modern Day Classical Composer: Four Best Max Richter Film Scores

The name on the tip of everyone's tongue, as the film industry moves further into the 20th century, is that of Max Richter, a German-born British composer. His music can be found in concert halls and on movie screens across the world. He also composes for television, lending

The Evolution of Music Genres

The Evolution of Music Genres

Check out this infographic, which walks you through the evolution of several genres of music!

guitar chords and progressions

Elvis Presley Guitar Chords and Progressions: Breaking Down His Signature Sound

Elvis Presley is truly a legend in rock music history. Hugely successful and popular in his lifetime, his music still influences rock bands today. Countless young musicians want to learn how to play Elvis Presley guitar chords. Yet Elvis was much more than the Southern boy who rose to the