Major and minor triads are the beginning basis for all harmony in Western music. Knowing how to form them will give you a better understanding of the music and will help you to compose your own pieces. Triads are formed based on the key of the piece. Therefore, knowing the circle of fifths and fourths…
Having good breath support is paramount to every musician’s performing ability. Whether it’s to produce a good tone, hold out a note for a long time or to understand a phrase properly, every musician must breathe properly. This includes musicians whose instruments do not require breath to play. Here are some techniques and exercises you…
Choosing a new instrument to learn can be a daunting task if you’ve never experienced them before. If you put enough time into any instrument you’re bound to have fun, but each instrument comes with it’s own set of difficulties. Here’s a list of each instruments drawbacks to let you know what you’re up against…
With the winter season fully underway, many people will find themselves getting sick. Nobody likes to get sick, but especially as a musician, getting sick can result in missed practice time, or even worse, a missed concert! Here are some tips to stay healthy and/or recover if you’re already feeling under the weather. 1. Drink…
After this Sunday’s recital I thought it would be pertinent to write about what we can do as performers to better prepare us for the next performance. I hope you can learn from, relate, and share the ideas given! 1. Think Constructively: With the anxiety of practicing for a recital comes a lot of nitpicking…
Whether you’re a gigging musician or a concertgoer, taking care of your ears is important. Here is a list of things you should be aware of when protecting your ears. 1. Wear earplugs: A single concert can be loud enough to give you permanent hearing loss. Always wear earplugs when attending concerts and when rehearsing…
When preparing for a performance, it’s always good to get your music prepped way in advance for your accompanist. An accompanist is the person who will be performing along side you, supporting your solo. This person is usually a pianist. Here are a few thoughts on how to work with your accompanist for a successful…
As recital dates approach, we have compiled one last list of helpful tips for a successful performance. 1. Know your piece: As simple or obvious as this may sound, some students may be unprepared. Practicing a piece and getting it to sound good takes time, don’t convince yourself that you can learn it in a…
As students prepare for their school concerts and private recitals, it is important to be reminded of appropriate concert behavior. Follow these basic points to add an element of sophistication to your or the artist you are listening to’s performance. 1. Bow before and after your performance: Many people neglect to bow before a performance….
When it comes to performing, memorizing your music is usually the final touch before going on stage. Memorizing your music can provide you with a deeper understanding of the music (if done correctly) and adds a level of sophistication to your performance. Here are a few ideas to help you learn your music more efficiently….