Rubato. Just saying the word evokes a gentle sway, like a breeze. Originating from the Italian term meaning “stolen,” rubato in music involves bending tempo rules, infusing phrases with life and emotion. It’s akin to adding vibrant color to a monochrome sketch. Without rubato, music can feel mechanical, like a robot’s lullaby (and trust me, […]

Understanding the Knowledge-Skill Imbalance Musical knowledge and technical skill can sometimes feel like two siblings who just can’t get along. While musical knowledge encompasses understanding music theory, history, and concepts, technical skill focuses on executing these elements on an instrument. Many musicians, including myself, have faced the frustration of knowing what should be played but […]

Introduction to Music Learning in Adulthood Starting music theory and guitar in your 30s is like opening a door to a room filled with endless possibilities. I’ve been there, and it’s a thrilling adventure! Many believe that learning music is only for the young, but age is just a number. Music welcomes everyone, regardless of […]

Introduction to Symbolism Symbols are hidden keys that unlock deeper understanding in our lives. From ancient cave paintings to modern emojis, they have been pivotal in human communication. Imagine describing a feeling without a smiley face—challenging, right? These symbols transcend language barriers, connecting us all. As we explore further, it’s intriguing to observe how symbols […]

Introduction to Modal Interchange Modal interchange, also known as modal mixture, is like adding unexpected spices to a familiar dish. It involves borrowing chords from parallel modes to create expressive colors in music composition. Picture a sunny C major piece that suddenly dips into the mysterious depths of C minor—this is the magic of modal […]

Introduction to Musical Translation Imagine attending a concert where the conductor whispers Russian musical terms with precision, and the orchestra responds as if sharing a secret language. That’s the power of accurate musical translation! Russian, with its rich musical lexicon, offers terms that are both poetic and profound. For instance, “fortepiano” isn’t just a piano; […]

Introduction to Vocal Scores Vocal scores are the treasure maps of the singing world, guiding us through a musical piece’s landscape. They include vocal lines and often a piano or orchestral reduction, making them invaluable for singers and accompanists alike. Over time, musical notation has evolved from simple neumes to the complex system we know […]

Introduction: Understanding Musical Intuition Musical intuition often feels like an elusive magic trick—a mystical guide through the complexities of rhythm and harmony. While some see it as an innate gift, I’ve watched students nurture this skill over time. It’s akin to learning to ride a bike; initially wobbly but eventually second nature. This intuition allows […]

Introduction to Musical Notation Imagine trying to bake a cake without a recipe—notes scattered, no instructions, just chaos. That’s music without notation. This symbolic language has evolved over centuries, from neumes in medieval manuscripts to the precise system we use today. As a music teacher, I see notation as the glue that holds compositions together, […]

Introduction to the ‘Reverse Picardy Third’ Imagine listening to a cheerful piece in a major key, only for it to conclude on a minor chord. Intrigued? That’s the “Reverse Picardy Third” at play. Traditionally, the Picardy Third resolved minor keys to major, offering a brighter finish. When reversed, it adds a somber twist, challenging conventional […]