Music Theory

A collection of 72 posts

Music Theory

Music Symbols and Meanings: A Clear Guide to Reading Sheet Music

Confused by sheet music symbols? Learn what notes, clefs, time signatures, and dynamics mean with this plain-English guide.

Music Theory

What's a Key Signature? A Guide to Identifying the Key of Any Piece

Every piece of sheet music starts with a set of sharps or flats you're expected to read at a glance. Here's what a key signature tells you, and how to read one without memorizing all fifteen.

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

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

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

Music Theory

The Magic and Ease of Power Chords

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

Music Theory

Identifying The Key Of Your Music When It’s Unclear

How do you determine for yourself what key a song is based on? Find out now!

Music Theory

How To Use The Pentatonic Scale In Riffs, Licks, and Solos

Read about some real-world examples of how to use the pentatonic scale in your performance!

tips

How to Add Depth to Simple Piano Sheet Music Arrangements

This article comes from musician & writer Hayley Bauer! Simpler sheet music has so many options. While it’s easy to fall in love with an advanced arrangement, try not to overlook more basic sheet music, even if you’re an advanced musician. Simpler sheet music gives the option of

tips

How To Play Guitar Solos: An Overview

This article comes from Mitch Wilson for Guitar Tricks and 30 Day Singer! One of the reasons the electric guitar became so popular was its ability to cut through the mix of a song and really stand out. A musician can play a solo on nearly any instrument, but with

Music Theory

Musical Notation: The Universal Language of Expression

Learn all about musical notation and the benefits this shared language brings!

Infographic

Music is Mathematical: How Learning an Instrument Boosts Math Skills

Check out this infographic and discover the similarities between learning an instrument and learning math!

guitar tips

Tips & Tricks to Master Bruce Springsteen's Guitar Techniques

If you want to learn how to play Bruce Springsteen's music on guitar, check out these tips and tricks!

Music Theory

Learning Tchaikovsky: Best Works to Play at Every Level

Tchaikovsky’s emotionally expressive and culturally unique music offers players of almost any level a chance to stretch their skills and explore a range of moods. The composer’s influence on Russian, and, indeed, many other classical composers, echoes through the nearly two centuries since his lifet

Music Theory

Learning Chopin: Best Songs to Play Right Now

Frédéric François Chopin may be the most beloved composer of piano music in the Western canon. His music is performed around the world at concerts, recitals, weddings, funerals, and just about every occasion you can imagine. Playing a Chopin piece can even help you relax after a stressful day. While

Music Theory

Learning Debussy: Best Songs to Play Right Now

Claude Debussy makes an appearance on just about every list of favorite composers. His music is often described as soothing, relaxing, and just plain beautiful. He was a prolific composer for the piano, leaving dozens of pieces for all to enjoy today. Are you wondering how to play Debussy? While som

Music Theory

7 Ways To Play Lead Sheets With Your Left Hand

Lead sheets are a great way for pianists to explore new music. If you’re not familiar with lead sheets, you can read all about them here: “How To Read A Chord Chart Or Lead Sheet At The Piano” In short, lead sheets are bare-bones sheet music that provide you with a notated melody line and […]

Music Theory

Learning Beethoven: Best Songs to Play Right Now

Learning to play the piano is a rewarding project. There is so much repertoire you can learn, from The Beatles to Broadway to Bach. One composer you might enjoy learning to play is Ludwig van Beethoven. He was a prolific composer and wrote numerous pieces for pianists of all levels

Music Theory

4 Magical Lord of the Rings Songs to Learn (From Hobbits to Wizards)

Starting the path of musical education is rather a dangerous business. As Bilbo said to Frodo, “You step into the Road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept off to.” And that’s what we love most about learning to play movie music. From the first time […]

Music Theory

8 Best Classic Rock Songs To Learn on Guitar From the 60s & 70s

Elvis Presley credited blues and soul music as the inspiration for what was, at the time, a genre-busting musical style involving guitar-heavy melodies and edgy lyrics. His music’s connection to musical “outliers” contributed to the sense that to play rock and roll was to engage in a

Music Theory

3 Ways Ear Training Will Make Your Musical Journey More Enjoyable

Ear training will not only help make you a better musician, but it can also make music even more enjoyable!

Music Theory

Learning Mozart: Best Songs to Play Right Now

The piano music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is rewarding for students of all levels and abilities. There is something for everyone, from students who are new to the instrument to accomplished performers. Learning Mozart serves two purposes. The technical challenges help pianists improve their keyboar

Music Theory

Learning Bach: Best Songs to Play Right Now

If you are wondering how to play Bach, you are not alone. His classical music is unique in his repertoire and demands special attention. With diligent practice, any pianist can master his music. It is well worth the effort as Bach’s pieces are quite rewarding and enjoyable to play. Johann Sebastian

Music Theory

How To Use The Science of Motivation To Stay Fired Up To Play Music

Explore the science behind motivation and discover how it can be applied to practicing your instrument!

Music Theory

Beyond The Aisle With Pachelbel’s “Canon In D”

Learn all about the story behind the classic wedding song, Pachelbel’s “Canon in D”!