Introduction to Polyrhythms Polyrhythms are the secret sauce that adds a unique flavor to music, creating intricate and engaging soundscapes. Essentially, they involve playing two or more contrasting rhythms simultaneously, like patting your head while rubbing your belly. Among these, the 3:2 polyrhythm is a classic, where three beats are played against two. Mastering polyrhythms […]

Introduction When we dive into the world of music composition, we often discover a fascinating array of habits that composers develop over time. One such habit is the selection of a musical key, which can significantly influence the mood and character of a piece. This exploration aims to uncover whether sticking to a single key […]

Introduction to Chord Inversions and Voicings Welcome to the fascinating world of chord inversions and voicings! At their core, chords are simply a collection of notes played together. However, by rearranging these notes, we create inversions and voicings, unlocking a treasure trove of musical possibilities. Understanding these concepts is crucial for adding flexibility and depth […]

Introduction Music theory can feel like a tangled web of notes, scales, and chords for beginners. It’s a complex subject that often leaves aspiring musicians scratching their heads. But what if there was a way to make it all a bit more digestible? Enter the chord progression flow chart, an innovative tool inspired by a […]

Introduction to Memorable Melodies When we think of tunes that stick in our heads, several key elements are at play. Emotional engagement, repetition, and surprise all work together to create melodies that linger. Take “Hey Jude” by The Beatles, for example. Its repetitive chorus is a textbook case in creating an earworm. But it’s not […]

Introduction to Non-Repetitive Song Structures Imagine a world where every song takes you on a new adventure, like stepping into a different storybook each time. Welcome to the realm of non-repetitive song structures or through-composed forms. These songs dance away from the familiar verse-chorus patterns, opting instead for continuous development. Artists like Joanna Newsom weave […]

Understanding Writing Style Writing style is the unique fingerprint of a writer, blending their personal voice with techniques that best convey their message. It’s like choosing the perfect outfit for an occasion—knowing your audience and purpose is key. A young adult novelist might opt for a conversational vibe, while a scientist would choose a more […]

Introduction to Musical Clefs Musical clefs are like the secret maps of music, guiding us through the maze of notes and rhythms. Each clef acts as a beacon, pinpointing the pitch of notes and anchoring them to the musical staff. The G, C, and F clefs are the foundational pillars in this musical architecture. Imagine […]

As a music teacher, I’ve spent years guiding students through the complexities of harmony, scales, and progressions. One of the most fascinating (and sometimes frustrating) topics that comes up is functional harmony. Learning about it is undeniably important for developing musical intuition. However, I’ve seen students—and even myself—fall into a trap where analyzing harmony becomes […]