Harmonic Minor Scale

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Unveiling the Harmonic Minor Scale: A Guide for Musicians

The musical world is filled with diverse scales, each offering unique sounds and colors. Today, we delve into some music theory by introducing the Harmonic minor scale and exploring its characteristics and how you can incorporate it into your music.

What is the Harmonic Minor Scale?

Imagine the familiar natural minor scale, known for its melancholic and introspective feel. Now, raise the seventh degree by one semitone. This single alteration creates the harmonic minor scale. This raised seventh degree, also known as the leading tone, creates a distinctive tension that wants to resolve to the tonic, adding a touch of drama and intrigue to the scale’s sound. This scale is used a lot by Flamenco guitarists.

The Layout

There are two main ways to construct the scale:

  1. From the Natural Minor Scale: Start with a natural minor scale and simply raise the seventh degree by one semitone.
  2. From the Major Scale: Take a major scale and lower the third and sixth degrees by one semitone. This method may be easier if you are unfamiliar with the minor scale layout.

The Distinctive Sound:

Its most striking feature is the augmented second between the sixth and seventh degrees. This interval, larger than a whole tone but smaller than a major third, creates a unique tension and dissonance that sets it apart from other minor scales.

Progression in A Harmonic Minor:

This is one scale which really offers a versatile palette for musicians:

  • Harmony: Build chords from the scale degrees to create unique harmonic progressions. The raised seventh degree often leads to the tonic, creating a strong sense of resolution.
  • Melody: Utilize the scale for expressive melodies. The augmented second can add a touch of drama and intrigue, while the leading tone naturally resolves to the tonic, guiding the melody towards a satisfying conclusion.
  • Modal Interchange: Borrow chords and melodic fragments from the harmonic minor scale to add color and complexity to pieces in the related major key.

Here is one progression that shows off the scale’s unique sound:

  1.  Am-Dm-Am-E7-Am-F-Am-Bm7b5-E7-Am

Exploring Your New Scale:

Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting your musical journey, the harmonic minor scale is a valuable tool. Experiment with its unique sound, and discover its potential to enhance your musical creations.

Ready to delve deeper? Numerous online resources and music theory books offer further exploration, including fingering charts for various instruments and in-depth analysis of its harmonic and melodic applications. So, unleash your creativity, and let it guide you to new musical expressions!

Please contact us if you have any comments or questions.

Neapolitan 6th

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What is the Neapolitan 6th Chord

The Neapolitan 6th chord (often abbreviated as N6) adds a touch of sophistication and unexpectedness to your music. Here’s how to play it:

Understanding the Neapolitan 6th:

  • It’s built on the flattened second scale degree of the key you’re in.
  • For example, in the key of C major, the second scale degree is D, but the N6 is built on Db (D flat).
  • It’s typically played in first inversion, meaning the third of the chord is in the bass.

Playing the N6:

  1. Identify the key you’re in.
  2. Flatten the second scale degree.
  3. Build a major triad (three notes) using the flattened second degree as the root.
  4. Play the chord in first inversion.

Here are some examples:

  • Key of C major: The N6 would be Db major (Db-F-Ab), typically played as F-Ab-Db.
  • Key of A minor: The N6 would be Gb major (Gb-Bb-Db), typically played as Bb-Db-Gb.

Some Uses for the Neapolitan 6th

Predominant Function:

  • The most common use of the N6 is as a predominant, meaning it leads smoothly to the dominant chord (V) which then resolves to the tonic chord (I).
  • This creates a strong and satisfying cadence, often used in classical and romantic music.
  • For instance, in the key of C major, a typical progression might be: Am7 – N6 (F-Ab-Db) – V7 (G7) – C.

2. Subdominant Substitute:

  • The N6 can sometimes substitute for the subdominant chord (IV), particularly when the IV chord is in first inversion (IV6).
  • This substitution creates a slightly different flavor compared to the original subdominant, adding a touch of chromaticism and emotional depth.

3. Modulation:

  • The N6 can be strategically used to modulate to a new key.
  • This involves smoothly transitioning from the current key to a different one.
  • By resolving the N6 to a chord in the new key, you can create a surprising and interesting shift in tonality.

4. Adding Chromaticism and Tension:

  • The inclusion of the N6 introduces a chromatic element to your music, meaning it uses notes outside the diatonic scale of the key.
  • This can create a sense of tension and anticipation, leading to the resolution to the dominant chord.

5. Emotional Impact:

  • The N6 can evoke various emotions depending on the context.
  • It often adds a touch of melancholy, yearning, or drama to the music due to its unexpected and somewhat unstable quality.

Tips:

  • You can find fingering charts for different instruments online or in guitar books, which will show you the specific placement of your fingers on the instrument to play the N6.
  • The N6 often resolves to the dominant chord (V chord) before leading to the tonic chord (I chord).
  • Experiment with using the N6 in your own music! Try replacing the V chord in a familiar chord progression with the N6 to add a surprising twist.

By understanding these steps and practicing, you’ll be incorporating the Neapolitan 6th chord into your music in no time!

Feel free to contact us if you interested in learning music theory.

Music Theory

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Music Theory

The term itself might conjure up images of dusty textbooks and endless drills. But what if I told you that music theory is actually easy to learn, incredibly rewarding, and opens up a whole new world of musical understanding and creativity?

What is it?

Simply put, music theory is the language of music. It’s a set of tools and concepts that help us understand how music is constructed, how different elements interact, and ultimately, how to create our own music. It’s like learning the grammar of a spoken language, but applied to the Music Theoryworld of sound.

Play and improvise with more confidence

By understanding scales, chords, and progressions, you can navigate the fretboard or piano with ease, experiment with different sounds, and express yourself musically.

Compose your own music

Music theory provides the building blocks for creating original pieces. You’ll learn how to combine notes, chords, and rhythms to bring your musical ideas to life.

Analyze and appreciate music on a deeper level: Understanding the “why” behind the music you love allows you to appreciate its intricacies and nuances on a whole new level.

Easy and Fun?

Many people shy away from music theory because they imagine it’s dry and complicated. But the truth is, it can be engaging and fun with the right approach.

Ready to unlock the magic of music?

If you’re interested in unlocking the secrets of music and taking your musical journey to the next level, let us know. With guidance and support, you’ll discover that understanding music is not just about memorizing rules. It’s really about unlocking a world of creativity, understanding, and enjoyment in the beautiful language of music.

Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back. Embrace the world of what makes music work. You’ll be surprised at how easy and enjoyable it can be to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the music you love. Remember, music is a language, and with the right tools and guidance, you can learn to speak it fluently.

Songwriting

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Songwriting is Easy!

Have you ever wanted to craft your own song but felt intimidated by the process? Songwriting isn’t just for professionals – it’s a fun and accessible creative outlet for anyone. It doesn’t take long to unlock the magic of chords and melodies, paving the way for your own musical masterpiece.

Songwriting

Aaron is writing his first song

Your First Song

  • Keeping it simple: We’ll break down music theory into uncomplicated, easy to understand concepts, using real-life examples and relatable songs.
  • Hands-on learning: You’ll be actively involved in the process, experimenting with chords and melodies from the very beginning.
  • Start with just a few chords: Popular music uses just a handful of chords in a song. We’ll start with those and progress through different keys. We can be as simple or complex as you’d like.
  • It is very straight forward: By the end of the session, you’ll have the practical skills to write a short chord progression, the building block of any song.
  • Refine the song: By tweaking the melody, lyrics, and chords as you go, we can perfect the song, experiment with the sections, and see where your creativity takes you. This is where the magic happens!

Learning the music theory isn’t just about understanding notes and scales. It’s about:

  • Unlocking your creativity: Gaining the tools to express yourself musically and explore different genres.
  • Boosting your confidence: Knowing how chords work together empowers you to experiment and write unique music.
  • Appreciating music on a deeper level: Develop a richer understanding of your favorite songs and artists.

Ready to embark on your musical journey? Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to refresh your knowledge, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let the fear of complexity hold you back. Take the first step towards your first song.

Songwriting is a journey. Embrace the process, have fun experimenting, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. With a little practice and a few simple steps, you’ll be surprised how quickly you can craft your own unique and personal song. So, grab your guitar and get ready to be amazed by your own musical potential!

Let us know if you would like to learn more.

Google Drive

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Printing Music and Saving to Google Drive

Google Drive

Google Drive

Remember the days of scrambling for lost sheet music, wrestling with crumpled pages, and lugging around binders overflowing with loose papers? There’s now a way to keep a hard copy as well as access your lessons anytime, anywhere: Google Drive.

Over the last several years, students have been able to access their folder on my Google Drive to download or view all their music and lessons. They still receive paper copies, unless they prefer not to, and can print or read right from Google Drive.

Some of the Benefits

  1. Lost Music: Your sheet music is safely stored in the cloud, accessible from any device, anywhere, anytime. No more digging to find that elusive piece – a quick search and you are ready to play.
  2. Most Current Copy: No more hunting for the latest version – changes are automatically saved, ensuring everyone has the most up-to-date copy. No more messy handwritten corrections, just a single, pristine digital sheet music file.
  3. Convenient: Getting access is a breeze! I will simply send a link to your email, and you can access it instantly on your phone, tablet, or computer. No more printing, photocopying, or lost papers – just seamless access to the music you need.
  4. Intuitive and Accessible: It is very user-friendly interface. Navigating folders, uploading files, and sharing access is simple and intuitive, even for those less tech-savvy.
  5. Beyond Music Sheets: You can also access videos, songs, and other resources alongside your music sheets.

Also…

  • Leave a Question: Google Drive offers a variety of commenting tools, ideal for highlighting specific sections or leaving personalized notes. If you have questions on a part of the music, you can write a note right on the sheet making feedback a breeze. Then I will see it at the next lesson.
  • Multiple Instruments: For students who are taking lessons on multiple instruments, you can even have a folder for each one keeping your music library organized and easily navigable.

Of course, no solution is perfect. Some students might still prefer the tactile experience of paper, and ensuring everyone has reliable internet access can be a challenge. But for the countless advantages it offers, this is one tool that can make your lessons that much better.

Using Google Drive is optional but a great help for your musical journey. If you have any questions about how it works, please contact me.

Guitarists Under 10

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How Drums and Backing Tracks Inspire Young Guitarists!

For guitarists under 10, the traditional “go it alone” practice often falls flat. It can feel repetitive, lonely, and frankly, not that exciting. But throw in some drums and backing tracks, and suddenly, learning explodes into a full-fledged band experience.

This combo is a huge hit especially with the under-10 crowd

There’s something amazing about the moment a young guitarist plugs in, strums their first chord, and a wave of sound washes over them. But add in the pounding beat of a drum, the driving energy of a backing track, and suddenly you’ve got a musical launchpad for future rockstars! That’s the joy of incorporating drums and backing tracks into guitar lessons for younger students, it’s a game-changer. Forget scales and metronomes (for a bit, at least). This is about pure fun and unleashing the inner rockstar. Here’s why it works:

Guitarists Under 10

Zane a week before our first jam session!

1. Instant Gratification: Imagine a kid struggling with a new chord progression. Now imagine them nailing it along side drums and a cool backing track. The sense of accomplishment is immediate, and that positive reinforcement fuels their musical journey.

2. It’s a Band Experience (Miniature!): With just two instruments and a backing track, the drums and guitar create a full band sound. Kids get to feel the energy of playing in a band, even if it’s just them and their teacher. It’s collaborative, exciting, and fosters a sense of community.

3. It’s So Much Fun! At the end of the day, music should be enjoyable. The combination of drums, guitar, and backing tracks are inherently fun and engaging. It sparks creativity, encourages movement, and lets kids lose themselves in the music.

4. It’s Not Just for the Younger Students: Even older guitar students get a kick out of this dynamic practice method. It adds variety, challenges their timing and improvisation skills, and reignites the pure joy of playing music.

Keeping Guitarists Under 10 Engaged

It’s more than just practice – it’s a gateway to a world of musical discovery, collaboration, and pure, unadulterated fun. Remember, the key to keeping young hearts engaged in music is to make it feel like an adventure. So, the next time you see a young guitarist, remember – a miniature band is waiting to take them on a musical adventure. Let’s turn up the volume, grab some sticks, and watch them as they begin the next level of playing.

If you would like to know more, feel free to leave a message, we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

 

Metal or a Glass Slide?

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Metal vs. Glass Slides: A Blues Showdown

The slide guitar is a cornerstone of the blues sound, conjuring up images of dusty Delta juke joints and smoky Chicago clubs. But should a blues guitarist use a metal or a glass slide? Each material has its own unique sonic and playing characteristics, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Metal Slides: Bright and Bold

Metal slides, typically made of steel or brass, are known for their bright, articulate tone. They produce a clear, bell-like sound with plenty of sustain, making them ideal for cutting through a mix and adding bite to your solos. Metal slides are also relatively durable and less prone to breakage than glass slides.

Metal or a Glass Slide

The Dunlop 224 Brass Slide

Some popular metal slide options include:

  • Dunlop 222: A classic medium walled brass slide with a bright, piercing tone.
  • Dunlop 224: A heavy walled brass slide with a warmer, smoother sound than steel.
  • Fender Steel Slide: A heavy-duty steel slide with excellent sustain.

Glass Slides: Warm and Sweet

Glass slides offer a warmer, more mellow tone than metal slides. They tend to emphasize the fundamental frequencies of the notes, resulting in a rounder, woodier sound that’s perfect for slow blues and bottleneck playing. However, glass slides are also more fragile than metal slides and can break if dropped.

Metal or a Glass Slide

The Derek Trucks Glass Slide

Some popular glass slide options include:

The Verdict: It’s All About You

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between metal and glass slides. The best slide for you is the one that you like the sound and feel of the most. Experiment with different materials, thicknesses, and weights to find the perfect slide for your blues playing.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

  • Playing style: Do you prefer a bright, aggressive sound or a warm, mellow sound?
  • Guitar type: Metal slides tend to sound better on electric guitars, while glass slides can work well on both acoustic and electric guitars.

I hope this gives you a good starting point, please let me know if you have any other questions.

The Right Size Guitar

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A Perfect Fit

Finding the right size guitar is crucial for both comfort and playability. A guitar that’s too big or too small can hinder your progress and enjoyment of the instrument. Here are some ways to tell if a guitar is the correct size for you:

Physical fit:

  • Reach the first fret: With your left hand, sit with the guitar in playing position. Your fingertips should comfortably reach the first fret without stretching or straining. If you can’t reach it, the guitar is likely too big.

  • Fretting hand comfort: Your fingers should be able to comfortably fret notes across the entire neck without feeling cramped or stretched out. If your fingers feel crowded or you have trouble reaching the higher frets, the guitar might be too small.

  • Strumming hand comfort: Your right hand should be able to move freely around the body and bridge of the guitar to strum and pick comfortably. If the body feels bulky or awkward to hold, the guitar might be too large.

Playing experience:

  • Sound and tone: A properly sized guitar will feel balanced and resonant, with a clear and full tone. If the sound feels thin or weak, the guitar might be too small. Conversely, if the sound is boomy or muddy, the guitar might be too big.
  • Intonation: The notes should play in tune across the entire neck. If the notes are sharp or flat on certain frets, the guitar might have an incorrect scale length or other setup issues.
  • Overall comfort: Ultimately, the most important factor is how comfortable you feel playing the guitar. If you feel tense, strained, or awkward, the guitar is likely not the right size for you.
Finding the Right Size Guitar

Left is a full size guitar-Right is a 3/4 size guitar

Other Factors to Find the Right Size Guitar

  • Your age and size: Children and smaller adults often benefit from smaller guitars, such as 3/4 or 1/2 sizes.
  • Guitar type: Different types of guitars have different body shapes and sizes. For example, electric guitars are generally smaller than acoustic guitars.
  • Playing style: Some playing styles, such as fingerpicking, might require a different size or body shape than strumming.

  • Here’s a helpful chart that summarizes the typical guitar sizes for different ages and body types:

    Age Height Body Type Recommended Guitar Size
    4-7 years old 36″-42″ Small 1/4 size
    7-10 years old 42″-48″ Average 3/4 size
    10-12 years old 48″-54″ Average 3/4 size or small full-size
    12+ years old 54″+ Average or tall Full-size

Tips:

  • Try out different guitars in a music store to find one that feels comfortable and sounds good to you.
  • Ask a guitar teacher or experienced player for help choosing the right size guitar.
  • Don’t be afraid to buy a used guitar, as there are many great deals to be found. Just make sure the guitar is in good condition and the right size for you.

I hope this helps! Remember, the most important thing is to find a guitar that you enjoy playing. With the right fit, you’ll be on your way to making beautiful music in no time.

The Paradiddle

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Beginner’s Guide to Paradiddles: Your Drumming Toolbox Essential

The paradiddle is a fundamental drumming rudiment, like a building block for countless grooves and fills. Mastering it unlocks a universe of rhythmic possibilities, making you a more versatile and expressive drummer. So, grab your sticks and let’s get started!

What is a paradiddle?

Imagine a simple alternating pattern of single strokes (one hit per hand) and double strokes (two hits per hand). That’s the paradiddle!

  • Single Paradiddle: RLRR LLRL (Right Left Right Right Left Left Right Left)

Why are paradiddles important?

  • Develop hand independence: Playing each hand differently trains your limbs to move separately and evenly.
  • Improve coordination: Coordinating single and double strokes strengthens your overall drumming control.
  • Build speed and dexterity: With consistent practice, paradiddles can significantly boost your playing speed and agility.
  • Unlock a rhythmic treasure trove: Paradiddles form the foundation for countless grooves, fills, and solos used in various drumming styles.

Getting started with the paradiddle:

  1. Start slow and focus on accuracy: Before chasing speed, prioritize clean execution. Play each note clearly and evenly, with proper sticking (right hand lead for R and left hand lead for L).
  2. Practice on a drum pad: This allows you to focus on technique without the distractions of the full kit.
  3. Use a metronome: Set a slow tempo and gradually increase it as you gain control and confidence.
  4. Begin with a triple stroke roll: Start with a triple stroke roll alternating hands.
  5. Throw in a pause: Pause after first hit on the triple stroke roll followed by 2 quick hits.
  6. Add the other stick: Hit the pad with the other stick during the pause.
  7. Accent on first hit: Use a heavier hit on the first strike and make sure to rebound completely after completing each paradiddle to start the next.
  8. Move around the kit: Once comfortable, try playing paradiddles on different drums and cymbals to develop spatial awareness.

Bonus tips from your friendly drum teacher:

  • Record yourself: Watching or listening back to your playing can highlight areas for improvement.
  • Find a drumming buddy: Practicing with a friend can add motivation and make learning more fun.
  • Don’t get discouraged: Mastering paradiddles takes time and dedication. Be patient, consistent, and celebrate your progress!

Remember: The paradiddle is a journey, not a destination. With dedication and practice, it will become an essential tool in your drumming arsenal, opening doors to endless rhythmic possibilities. So, grab your sticks, embrace the challenge, and let the paradiddle magic begin!

Drum Throne

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Finding Your Perfect Groove: A Drum Teacher’s Guide to Drum Thrones

As drum teachers, we understand the importance of a comfortable throne. A shaky stool can wreak havoc on technique and motivation, while a drum throne that feels like a torture device will have them itching to switch instruments. That’s why picking the right throne is just as crucial as choosing the right cymbals or snare. Today, we’ll compare a couple of popular options: Roc N Soc, Gibraltar, and your standard generic stool.

The Throne King?

Roc N Soc thrones are legendary for their comfort and adjustability. The signature manual spindle mechanism lets you fine-tune your height with pinpoint accuracy, no jerky levers or wobbly gas cylinders to contend with. Their seat options are diverse, from classic round tops to contoured saddles and even a split design for ultimate spinal support.

Benefits:

  • Unmatched adjustability: Find the perfect height with millimeter precision.
  • Extremely comfortable: The padded seat is plenty thick for hours of playing.
  • Variety of seat styles: Choose the one that best suits your body and playing style.
  • Superior build quality: These thrones are built to last, with heavy-duty steel bases and top-notch materials.

Drawbacks:

  • Premium price tag: Roc N Soc thrones are an investment, costing significantly more than most generic options.

Gibraltar: The Solid Value Choice

Gibraltar thrones offer a fantastic balance of affordability and quality. Their 9608 model is a teacher’s favorite, boasting a comfortable vinyl-padded seat, sturdy double-braced legs, and a reliable height adjustment mechanism. While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of a Roc N Soc, it gets the job done for most students and seasoned drummers alike.

Benefits:

  • Excellent value for money: You get a lot of throne for your buck.
  • Durable and reliable: Built to withstand years of practice and pounding.
  • Comfortable seat: The padded vinyl provides adequate support for most players.

Drawbacks:

  • Limited adjustability: The height adjustment mechanism isn’t as precise as Roc N Soc’s.
  • Fewer seat options: You’re stuck with the standard round top, which might not be ideal for everyone.

Generic Thrones: A Risky Gamble

Cheap, generic thrones might seem tempting, but they’re often a false economy. Wobbly bases, uncomfortable seats, and unreliable height adjustments can lead to frustration and even injuries. Unless you’re on a super tight budget and just need something temporary, it’s best to avoid these thrones altogether.

Drum Throne is Worth the Investment

A good throne will last for years and make a world of difference in your students’ playing experience. Consider offering demo models of different thrones in your teaching space so students can find the perfect fit. The best throne is the one that keeps your students comfortable, focused, and excited to play. Experiment with different options, listen to your students’ feedback, and don’t be afraid to invest in quality. A happy drummer with a supportive throne is a recipe for success on the drums!

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.