“Music doesn’t lie. If there’s something to be changed in this world, then it can only happen through music.” -Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix (November 27, 1942 – September 18, 1970) had a deep reverence for music which was evident throughout his career. He began as a self taught guitarist, after he had been honorably discharged…
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Thanksgiving Dinner Made Easy
Autumn leaves are falling and a frost is setting in. It’s that time of year again to reflect. It is so important to take the time out of our busy schedules to be thankful for everything we have. We hope that you take time this holiday season to spend with family, friends and loved ones. Show your gratitude this…
What Makes a Performance Great?
Performing on stage can be a terrifying experience. I remember reading a quote of one pianist who said that “you always get very nervous, you just get used to it after time”. If you’re questioning whether or not to perform, here’s some things to think about. First, make sure you have good technique on your…
Are you ready for Memorial Day?!
Most of you are already familiar with Memorial Day; it is a day to honor those who died while serving our country. It is a service that not many are willing to do and we should all be extremely thankful for those who serve. Memorial Day has also become the official beginning of the Summer…
Rock and Roll Part II
n this installation of the history of rock and roll, we explore the decades of the ’60s and ’70s. This is arguably rock’s pinnacle of achievement, ushering in the superstars we have all come to know and revere. While American rock and roll was still going strong with artists such as Elvis, something was brewing…
A History of Rock and Roll, Part I
This month we explore the roots and evolution of rock music, beginning with its inception in America. Rock music has a deep history, which is full of facts that you perhaps have never known before. We begin with the pre-history of rock and roll and how it came about. Rock and roll was a musical…
An Introduction to Form
Form is the structure in which a piece of music is organized. Form provides the building blocks in which a composer will construct a coherent piece of music. Knowing the form of a piece of music is essential for performing, but just as essential for the listener in the audience. A listener who cannot identify…
A Brief History of Classical Music: Part I
n my ten years of teaching it has always been (and for other teachers as well) a struggle to motivate certain students to study classical music. Classical music is certainly not the end-all to learning an instrument, but rather the most efficient gateway into proficiency in all musical genres. What one student can accomplish through…
Electric Guitars: What You Need To Know
In general and in the past few weeks, many parents and students are approaching me with various questions about all types of instruments. This article serves to be informative to any interested guitar beginners, and may even help to fill some gaps in education for intermediate and advanced guitar players as well. Although many amateurs…
Enhancing Your Summer Through Music
With summer practically here, all students will be enjoying their break from school, if not from music lessons as well. With so much free time, summer is the perfect opportunity for students, parents and teachers to explore new and exciting aspects of music that they may have never experienced before. The next few months provide…