Music theory

Understanding Chord Notation: A Practical Guide for Musicians

2025-08-08T10:02:50+01:00

In the world of music, chord notation serves as a universal shorthand, enabling musicians to communicate rich harmonic ideas quickly and efficiently. Rather than writing out every note on the stave, chord notation uses symbols to indicate entire groups of notes that form chords. Whether you are strumming an acoustic guitar, comping chords on a jazz piano, or arranging music for an ensemble, this compact language empowers you to move fluently through harmonic progressions, providing a powerful framework for performance and improvisation alike. My own experience, spanning more than a decade of teaching, performing, and arranging, has shown how vital chord [...]

Understanding Chord Notation: A Practical Guide for Musicians2025-08-08T10:02:50+01:00

Teaching Phrasing in Music: Techniques and Insights

2024-11-19T11:47:06+00:00

Phrasing in music refers to the way a musician shapes a sequence of notes to convey expression, much like how a speaker modulates voice to emphasise meaning in language. Understanding phrasing is fundamental to musicality; it turns notes on a page into a compelling narrative. This article will explore methods for teaching phrasing, drawing from concepts like thwarted expectations, trajectory in Brahms' Op. 118, the use of singing as a practise method, phrasing in Chopin, playing Schubert like a singer, and techniques for handling rests and long notes. 1. Understanding Thwarted Expectations in Phrasing Teaching phrasing often begins with understanding [...]

Teaching Phrasing in Music: Techniques and Insights2024-11-19T11:47:06+00:00

Bach’s Legendary Legacy That Paved The Way For Piano

2024-10-31T12:04:26+00:00

Piano music would not be the same today if there were no courageous musicians willing to go beyond the limits. Imagine living such a compelling life, using your extraordinary talents to influence countless others. Not many musicians can fit this description. Yet, there are some people that used their exceptional talents and skills that are still impacting lives today. Beethoven, Mozat, Liszt and many more helped pave the way for the piano and its music. Let us take a closer look at another brilliant composer and musician who helped shape the future of piano: Johann Sebastian Bach. A Deeper Dive Into [...]

Bach’s Legendary Legacy That Paved The Way For Piano2024-10-31T12:04:26+00:00

How to Get Started with Blues Piano

2024-09-04T17:02:25+01:00

The blues is one of the most soulful and expressive genres of music, and its rich tradition is deeply rooted in American history. Originating in the deep south of the USA in the late 19th century, the blues has since influenced countless musical styles, from jazz to rock to modern pop. The piano plays a significant role in the blues, offering a dynamic range that can capture the genre's emotional depth, as well as imitating the styles of other blues instruments such as the guitar. If you’re looking to get started with blues piano, you’re embarking on a rewarding journey [...]

How to Get Started with Blues Piano2024-09-04T17:02:25+01:00

Back to Basics with Your Piano Playing!

2024-06-24T16:45:05+01:00

As a pianist, whether you're a novice or a seasoned professional, it's essential to revisit the fundamental skills and techniques that underpin your playing. Take a step back and get back to basics with your piano playing—it's the perfect way to revitalise your practice and take your playing to new heights! Why Go Back to Basics? Even experienced pianists can benefit from going back to basics. Revisiting fundamental skills and techniques offers a multitude of advantages, ensuring continuous growth and development as a musician: Refine Your Technique and Eliminate Bad Habits Over time, even seasoned pianists can develop subtle bad [...]

Back to Basics with Your Piano Playing!2024-06-24T16:45:05+01:00
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