Part of the job of a parent is to sort out which activities best resonate with our children and to support focus in their interests. With the array of extracurriculars available for today’s youth, it can be hard for a parent to determine what activities or areas of study are worthwhile for their child to explore. Kids are unique, dynamic individuals and tend to have quickly changing interests. More commonly than not, they come across the idea to study music.
Read moreHorror Music: Uncovering the Sound of Fear
With its turning leaves and shorter, chillier days, October is the perfect month to stay inside and watch our favorite horror films. But have you ever wondered exactly what it is that makes scary movies so... scary? Music may play a larger role than you’d think.
Read moreAcoustic Guitar Body Styles
When shopping for an acoustic guitar, taking the time to understand the basics of body styles and what you’re looking for can make all the difference. The body shape of your guitar will determine playing comfort, certain sound characteristics and the volume level you’ll hear. In this post, we’ll dive in and explore the ins and outs of different acoustic guitar body styles.
Read moreLearning an Instrument: Process vs Perfection
Thanks to our current era of technology, we’re able to see thousands of videos of incredible musicians, both professional and amateur, at the tap of a search bar. It can be easy to compare your current skill set to a YouTube prodigy halfway around the world, or even in the same city as you. Inevitably, for most beginners that are studying music, the question that eventually arises is: “How long until I’m as good as that person?”
Read moreCeltic Music
From entrancing Irish laments to energetic jigs or reels, Celtic music is a range of experience for the ear. This post gives an overview of the origins and history of Celtic music, the instruments typically played, and how the music works theoretically. As a bonus, I have included a video and sheet music to an original Celtic song I composed, outlined at the bottom of the page.
Read moreChill Inducing Music, What Causes It?
Have you ever listened to a song you enjoy and suddenly felt a shiver of chills or goosebumps across your body? This type of response from any stimulus besides a cold temperature (commonly music, art or poetry) is called frisson (pronounced free-sawn). While not everyone experiences this phenomenon, there are scientific and physiological explanations as to how this happen, and who it happens to.
Read moreAcoustic Guitar Strings: Buyers Guide
Guitar strings are available in a wide variety, and knowing which type to buy can be confusing. Once one starts considering gauge size, material of the string, coatings, and different brands, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed!
The best way to buy strings is to educate yourself on some of the generic terms and figure out what type of music you mainly like to play on a specific guitar. Since using the wrong strings on your guitar may damage your instrument, knowing these things will give you a better idea of what type(s) you should purchase.
Read morePrivate Music Lessons Vs. Public School Music Programs
Private music lessons come with a variety of social and cognitive benefits as do public school music programs. There are benefits and drawbacks with each. Experiencing some level of music education is better than not, however, what are the key differences between them, and what is it like to experience both?
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