Learn on How to Perfectly Practice the PIANO

Playing the piano requires long hours of practicing especially when a big musical event is coming. With all the factors that are needed to play the piano, one very basic yet important thing will be discussed in this article. 

One factor that some professionals dare not forget… practice. Even if you know all the fingerings and notes, even if you can read the music well, it won’t mean a thing. Practice is the essence of it all. You have to be committed in your genre therefore practicing it every day; if not everyday then at least thrice a week.

Child's hands resting on a piano keyboard (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you’re having difficulty training yourself with your practice hours, here are some notes to ponder upon.

Note # 1

Make a daily schedule for practice and comply with it. Be determined to stick to your schedule. It is a must to condition yourself into practicing everyday so that your body will get used to the routine. At first, it could be tedious and boring but as you go on learning the essentials, it becomes more fun hearing the way you play.

Note # 2

Your piano must be put in a place that you won’t feel cluttered. Your music room must be free from anything that might distract you like a radio or anything noisy. This enables you to concentrate when practicing. Also, make sure that there is proper lighting where your piano is placed. But remember that your piano must not be exposed to extreme sunlight for this might destroy some sensitive parts of your piano.

Note # 3

Always warm up. Exercise your fingers with some simple notes then proceed to the hard ones. If you have no idea on how to warm up those fingers, ask someone who knows. An exercise must let your fingers stretch to reach some keys that are hard to reach. This will become helpful when playing fast paced notes and music. Don’t let your hands touch a key while it still feels stiff and rusty.

Note # 4

Review the past lessons learned before starting a lesson. This would be the next thing after warming up. If you have not finished the music yesterday, recall what you played then continue it. Better yet, start the whole thing to be able to follow.

Note # 5

Follow your manual and instructor’s directions. Help her help you learn. To relieve boredom, play the piano at the same time, like a duet. Tell your instructor your interests and ask her to play it for you so you might know it and therefore pave the way into practicing it even without her presence.

Note # 6

Make your practice as goal-oriented as possible. A goal will make you more focused and concentrated because you have something to be achieved. To finish a goal will make you feel satisfied and fulfilled.

Note # 7

Always maintain a positive attitude when practicing. When you plan to play the piano without anyone to guide you, just remember all the lessons that your tutor has taught you. Do not give up that easily when it has become hard. If you are being stressed, rest for a while. Give yourself time to breathe.

Try to figure out a technique with every practice for it to come out natural and unique in your own way.

JOSEPH HAYDN - From Peasant to Fame and Wealth

Haydn was one of the first composers to write a pitch change as well as a written out solo for the timpani in a symphonic movement. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Austrian world, to which Haydn was born, in 1732, was beginning a new life, free from foreign Turkish oppressors, full of religious zeal, and expanding boundaries, living under the talented rule of the Habsburgs. Charles VI, reigning emperor, was a fine violinist, harpsichordist, and operatic composer.

The class system especially poignant at this time, gave little opportunity for poor peasants to rise in stature and riches. However, Joseph Haydn, born to a peasant family, achieved recognition and wealth uncommon, not only to those of his social rank, but also of composers and musicians of the time. Haydn's father, Mathias, was a wheelwright and his mother, Anna Maria Koller, had been a cook in the Harrach Castle. Haydn was the second of twelve children born to the wheelwright and his wife. Two of Haydn's brothers, Johann Michael and Johann Evangelist also became musicians.

As a young boy, Haydn was taught to love music; his father played the harp and had been granted the gift of a beautiful tenor voice, and his mother also enjoyed singing. Haydn went to the school rector at Haimburg and there studied for two years reading and writing, catechism, singing, wind and string instruments. At the age of eight he was enlisted to become a pupil in the Choir School at St. Stephen's Cathedral, where he continued his musical studies, though no instruction in musical theory was given. At sixteen his voice began to break, and one of Haydn's practical jokes, cutting off the pigtails of a fellow classmate, served as an excuse for the director to dismiss him from the choir. Thus without food, money, clothing, or home, Haydn was forced into the world to work as a freelance musician.

As a freelance musician, Haydn played for dances, arranged compositions for a variety of instruments, taught music for a meager amount, served as an accompanist, composed, and took part in serenades. "Like Italy, old Austria had a great fondness for open-air music at night, and many musicians were needed to fill the continuous demand. Haydn made the best use of this fashion. He earned a little money this way and drew from the rich well of Viennese fold music."

House of Joseph Haydn in Vienna,
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Through the money he earned as a freelance performer and through the graciousness of Anton Buchholz, who lent him unconditionally one hundred-fifty florins, Haydn was able to take a room and set about filling in the gaps in his theoretical knowledge. He studied Johann Josheph Fux's Gradus ad Parnassum, Johann Mattheson's Der vollkommene Kapellmeister, David Kellner's Unterricht im Generalbass, and works by Carl Phillip Emanuel Bach.

In 1758, Haydn became Kammer-compositeur to the Bohemian Count, Karl Joseph Franz von Morzin. This was a social and financial step forward, he was now regularly paid, a sum of two hundred florins a year, besides receiving free board and lodging. Haydn's great fortune was not over, as an offer was given to become vice-conductor, and later becoming head conductor, at the court of Gregorius Joseph Werner, Prince Esterhazy, in Einstadt. Haydn readily accepted this new post.

The Esterhazy's stood at the head of Hungary's powerful nobility. Haydn's duties included not only composing nearly all the music presented at the court, be he was also in charge of the orchestral members, making sure they wore clean, white stockings and tidy uniforms, and seeing that they did not get into mischief. This orchestra consisted, in the beginning, of five violins, one cello, one double bass, one flute, two oboes, two bassoons, and two horns. While under the service of Esterhazy court, Haydn was given freedom to experiment with new musical ideas of form and harmony. He developed a style of motivic development, tone painting, independence of instrumental lines, and use of "daring keys," such as B Major, F-sharp Major, and C-sharp Major.

Haydn was a prolific composer with 83 string quartets, 104 symphonies; 52 piano sonatas; many concertos for piano (15), violin (13), horn (2), trumpet (1), flute (1), and cello (2); 35 piano trios; more than 175 divertimentos; 19 operas; 14 masses; part songs and canons for voice; and 5 oratorios. Haydn's oratorios have been a subject discussed, dissected, and speculated upon by many scholars, most particularly The Seasons and The Creation.

Haydn's compositions were some of the most beautiful written during the Golden Age of Music.

By Cindy Lee Smith Find quality resources for piano teachers, students, and parents at Piano Discoveries. http://www.pianodiscoveries.com Article Source: EzineArticles

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Music About DANCE

While we all know that Jazz is as much a style of music as it is a style of dance, many people may not realize the importance that dance has played in music. There are many songs out there that mention the importance of dancing and yet we as a society seem to have forgotten the importance or limited that importance to a certain age group. Once we age it seems that we forget not only how to dance but also the intrinsic importance of dancing as well.

Rhythm, a sequence in time repeated, featured in dance:
an early moving picture demonstrates the waltz.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

"I Hope You Dance" is only one of many songs that relate the important role that dancing plays in feeding the human soul. If one thing in life is important for all, that one thing would be to dance whenever the opportunity arises. You never know when you will run out of opportunities to dance or find that you've squandered so many of them away. Take them as they come and your life will be filled with much greater joy than you may ever realize. Despite many other songs out there that may convey the message, there are very few that say it more concisely than this particular song. "When you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you'll dance".

Garth Brooks is another musician that had an excellent commentary on dance. His song "The Dance" chronicles not necessarily the importance of dancing but of participating. Given the choice, many who have lost their lives in some risky endeavor would more than likely tell those left behind that they would not have traded the dance for one more breath. The lyrics to this song are somewhat haunting "I could have missed the pain but I'd have had to miss the dance".

Believe it or not all good songs that mention dance do not happen to be country songs. These honestly happen to be, in my opinion, the most poignant. Other great songs about dance include the song "Let's Dance" by David Bowie. The lyrics to this song include the stanza "Let's dance for fear tonight is all". The truth of the matter is that you never know and dancing is a great way to celebrate living.

Music and dance for years have gone hand in hand and will continue to do so long after we've left this earth. At least that would be the hope. I would hate to see what a world without dance would be like. It would be like having children without laughter and that would be a sad world in which to live. If you want to keep your children dancing then you must teach them to dance. Teach them that it is okay to dance and be silly around the house. That it is okay to dance their way through their chores (hey if it makes them smile while taking out the trash I say go for it!).  Teach them that dancing is a great way to express joy and that laughter is the best thing to follow their dance.

Native Americans have a long and noble heritage when it comes to dance. They let their dreams beat out the heartbeat of Mother Earth and danced in companionship with nature. They danced for joy and sorrow, war, peace, and praise. I can think of no better example to follow when it comes to dance.

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OBOE - Music-Instruments of the World

Oboe - Music-Instruments of the World

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Correct Breathing for WIND and BRASS PLAYERS

Details of a wind instrument.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A correct deep breathing technique is essential to playing any wind or brass instrument, but there are many misconceptions surrounding the way to breathe and what parts of your body are doing the work and what you should be doing in order to support the airflow.

And when I say support I mean a way of producing a constant and equal airflow that will produce the best sound on your instrument. A good analogy would be blowing the flame of a candle and keeping the "bend" of the flame constant as you blow across it rather than one quick breathe which blows the candle out.

Personally I was always told to support using the diaphragm, but actually this is impossible as the diaphragm deflates as you breathe out.

So what does the diaphragm do...? the muscle contracts and pulls downwards when we breath in, and returns to its original position when we breath out. Obviously this is a difficult theory to teach because we don't have X-ray vision and can't see what's happening inside our bodies while we teach someone or are playing our instrument. And this is where the misconception arouse from. The diaphragm really isn't that involved in breathing when playing a wind instrument, it's actually an involuntary muscle, we have no control over it at all! So how you can you possibly support using your diaphragm??

The truth is that the diaphragm is used on the inhale and the abdominal muscle group is used to ‘support’ the air on the exhale.

To find out if you are breathing correctily place your hand on the 'spongy' feeling area just below the V of the rib-cage. This is essentially the top edge of the abdominals. Then simulate a short, loud cough, or laugh. You should see and feel the muscle jump outwards along with the sound.

Next take your instrument and play a note that only requires one hand if possible (G on the sax, low C on the clarinet, middle C on the bassoon, etc.) Then place your free right hand back on the abdominals, pushing in slightly, and feel what it does when they play the note. They should feel the muscle pushing steadily out against the hand.

Hidden Danger

There is one thing you have to be aware of when learning this deep breathing technique!

When you push with your abdominal muscles your entire body tenses up and this tension particularly affects the throat and jaw, closing them off so that the air does not get through properly and you get a strangled sound.

So you need to be aware of being relaxed everywhere but your abdominal muscles. This may take some practice.

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BEETHOVEN's Sonatas - Learn How the Master Composed His Sonatas

The painting is described thus: "Ludwig van Beethoven was recognised as a child prodigy. He worked at the age of 13 as organist, pianist/harpsichordist and violist at the court in Bonn, and had published three early piano sonatas. This portrait in oils is the earliest authenticated likeness of Beethoven." (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Beethoven is not a new name to the world of music. For the music buffs he is an inspiring icon. Beethoven's musical genius has inspired generations and is continuing to do so. He immortalized himself in the world of music with his sonatas. He composed music for operas, sonatas, quartets, pianos, violin concerts and orchestras. The talented musician's famous compositions are the Moonlight sonata, Fur Elise and Fifth and the Ninth symphonies.

Genius In The Making

Beethoven was born in the year 1770, on the 16th day of December in Bonn, Germany. Coming from a family of musicians, he showed his inclination towards music, even when he was young. He was gifted in music even as a child, and began performing in public at the tender age of six. He became a professional at the age of 13. He had to fight hearing impairment but emerged brave by countering the problem and composing beautiful tunes. The illustrious musician died at 56 but he still lives on, through his wonderful music. Such is the genius of Beethoven.

Beethoven's Sonatas

Beethoven composed over thirty two piano sonatas and each of them is considered to be a precious treasure in the world of music. He played a pivotal role in the evolution and transformation of the sonata form. Many traits followed by his predecessors like Mozart and Haydn were sustained in his sonatas but he projected his personality and emotions through them and made sonatas, an impressive art form.

The tonality is the fundamental principle on which Beethoven's piano sonatas are organized. Beethoven considered tonality vital for understanding any kind of musical form. In the thirty two sonatas composed by him, twelve of the sonatas have four parts, thirteen comprise three parts and remaining seven sonatas consist of two parts. A significant aspect of the Beethoven's Sonata is the distinguished diversity of the movement types and the succession order. The distinct feature of his sonatas is the diligence with which he creates a connection between the constituent parts of the Sonata.

Beethoven's Sonata No. 14

The piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor by Beethoven is known popularly as the Moonlight Sonata. He completed the sonata in the year 1810. During the composition of this piano Sonata, Beethoven began to lose his hearing faculty. He used a custom made rod that was attached to the soundboard of the piano. This helped him to sense the vibrations. The name of the sonata is 'Moonlight Sonata' since it is compared to moonlight which shines on lake Lucerne by a music critic, Ludwig Rellstab.

Beethoven's Sonata No.8 in C Minor

Beethoven's Sonata No.8 in C minor is called Pathetique. In 1799, this piano sonata was published. The work was dedicated to Prince Karl Von Lichnowsky, his friend. The beauty of the sonata is its tragic sonorities. The sonata has been performed in concerts and recordings frequently, owing to its popularity.

The musical theme of Beethoven's Sonata allures the listeners. The musical theme in his compositions becomes a concept that pervades throughout the composition. Beethoven's piano sonatas are played by both amateurs and professionals alike. His compositions are performed by pianists worldwide and are even recorded extensively.

The gifted musician has reflected his sorrows, joys and all kinds of emotions through his compositions. How else do you describe music? Is it not a channel to describe yourself, your emotions? His brave fight against the odds like his hearing disability did not stop him from composing and playing beautiful music. Playing his sonatas on a piano is like reading the life of this gifted and illustrious musician, full of all the colors and hues of human life - full of music - full of...Beethoven.

By Yoke Wong Yoke Wong is the founder of http://www.YokeWong.net - a leader in providing high quality piano instructional home study courses to piano players throughout the world. She has developed many piano home study courses including Piano Improvisation DVD, Hand Coordination, Runs & Fillers piano course, Sweet Sounds of Jazz Improv, etc. Sign up for piano playing newsletter here http://www.playpianotips.com/pianochord.html Article Source: EzineArticles

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CONTRABASSOON - Buying Your First Contrabasoon

Contrabassoon
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

History

Developed in the mid-17th century, the contrabassoon was initially used to play church music, and eventually moved into the British military bands.

Compared to the regular bassoon

When compared to their cousin, contrabasoons are generally larger, with a 70-75 mm in total length. Also, fingering techniques in contrabasoons are slightly different, particularly at the register change and in extreme high range.

Rather than being supported by a seat strap, a contrabassoon is supported by an endpin because of its considerable length.

Finally, a contrabasoon cannot be disassembled without a screwdriver. The instrument often has two parts: a bell and bocal.

Kinds

Contrabasoons come in two kinds: one-piece and two-piece.

A one-piece contrabassoon is made from wood with a silver tube called a bocal extending from the top to the reed. This type is commonly used because of its sturdiness and easier maintenance. Some models also come with detachable bells.

Meanwhile, a two-piece contrabassoon has a detachable top and bottom area, as well as separate bells and bocals. It usually has a lower A extensions in addition to the Bo limit.

Buying tips

If you are thinking of buying a contrabassoon, look for one that has an excellent support. Choose a contrabasoon that comes with a sturdy endpin or floor peg to support it from the floor. Also, make sure that it can tilt from the endpin allowing for a more comfortable playing position. You can also look for a contrabassoon that has comes with a shoulder strap to reduce weight on the endpin.

Finally, make sure that you can easily reach the finger keys of your instrument. A contrabassoon's finger keys are usually spaced farther as compared to regular bassoon keys.

By Ilse Hagen A complete Guide to CONTRABASOONS is available in Picky Guide, one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer advice and product information. Article Source: EzineArticles

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An Alternative Way To Adjust Your GUITAR Nut

Most new guitars arrive from the factory with the nut just barely playable. Older guitars may have the nut filed or worn down so much that fret buzz cannot be eliminated by neck or string height adjustment. If you have a new guitar, or you are replacing the nut with a new one, here is an alternative method to file and adjust the nut material to make your guitar play like the professionals guitars play.

2003-ish Fender Made-in-Mexico Stratocaster with .11 gauge strings. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Before adjusting anything, make sure your guitar is strung up correctly and that your neck is straight and not bowed or warped. If your neck is bowed you first need to adjust the truss rod. If your neck is warped it will require a more extensive repair. For the lowest possible action or to avoid fret buzz all across your finger board it may be necessary to have your frets leveled and crowned first.

You will need a set of nut files (available from Stewart MacDonald), and a good set of feeler gauges as well. Different grades of sandpaper are very useful too.

Fret each string individually, starting with the High E, between the second and third fret, use your feeler gauge to check the amount of space between the bottom of the string and the first fret. You should have approximately .005" of space between each one, with the string barely touching the second fret. If this measurement is close or dead on then move on to the next string right up to the Low E string. You may want to record the gap on a scrap piece of paper as you move across the fret board, to see the nut slot's height in relation to the fret board as you do so.

For most players a string height (also known in guitar slang as “action”) of 3/64" of an inch is considered normal. Some players choose a higher sting height such as 4/64" of an inch while players which tend to have a light touch and want the fastest action possible strive to lower the action as close as possible to 2/64" which in many case's is very hard to setup and maintain without fret buzzing somewhere on the finger board.

Of course, you can use the traditional method to set your string height in relation to the nut, by using multiple feeler gauges below the nut, and filing down to the factory depth and width. However, I have found this method to provide a better and more consistent feel while playing near the nut.

Keyboard Technique - Playing BAROQUE PIANO Compositions

Baroque music is formed in large part from contrapuntal textures (having two or more independent but harmonically related melodic parts sounding together). Written for the harpsichord, these textures aren't as well suited to the modern piano's thicker tone and rich, low harmonies. So, special care has to be taken when you interpret Baroque period music on the piano.

An upright pedal piano by Challen (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In contrapuntal music, the individual parts are of equal importance, even though their inter-relationship is continually shifting. To reproduce this type of texture well, you need to train your mind, ears and fingers to follow the course of individual contrapuntal lines, as well as their combined texture, so the pianist presents a picture of an ever-changing whole.

Pianist H. Ferguson gives this analogy: You can think of the music as a kind of conversation, in which the voice shifts continually from person to person, as each person makes a contribution without unduly raising his tone. The dynamic range shouldn't be too great (a true fortissimo is rare, since several people shouting different things at the same time will never make themselves understood); and touch and tone should be lighter than in homophonic music typical of the later 19th century.

A semi-legato is more usual than a legatissimo, especially if the notes are quick-moving, since it promotes clarity. It also allows freer play for the subtle kaleidoscopic changes of thought and mood particularly characteristic of Bach. The sustaining pedal should be used sparingly; it should never be allowed to obscure the line, or produce the kind of impressionistic haze that is only heard in modern music such as Debussy.

So, when you interpret Baroque music during piano instruction, try to avoid the thickness of sound that is characteristic of the piano, yet was foreign to the harpsichord. This is especially important with close-position chords in the bass. These sound clear and transparent on the early instrument, but on the thicker-toned piano of today they should be played carefully to avoid a muddy sound. One solution is to lighten the middle notes of the chord, so they are less prominent than the octave played by the fifth finger and thumb. Sometimes it helps to break the chord slightly and play it as a quick arpeggio.

Occasionally in Baroque music there are passages that would have been comparatively easy with the light and shallow touch of earlier instruments, but now are extremely difficult, or impossible, with the deeper and heavier key-action of today. For instance, the repeated triplet octaves in the right hand part of Schubert's song 'Der Erlkonig' were originally not terribly hard to play, but for the modern pianist they have become a virtuoso athletic feat.

In playing fugal music, then, you might find the following points helpful:

• Characterize all parts of fugue with carefully defined articulation.
• Make sure that the articulation for the main part is contrasted with that required by the counterpoint, and by parts 2 and 3 if the fugue happens to be double or triple. This ensures that each part remains distinct when several occur together.
• Characterize the episodes of the fugue in the same sort of way.
• Keep the texture as light as possible, particularly the top and bottom lines.
• Don't feel that the part must always stand out as though it were played on a solo blaring horn. The other parts are equally important.
• If you do want to bring out a particular part, stress it only very slightly. Its characterization, coupled with the generally light texture, will do the rest.
• A moving part will always stand out more clearly than a static one; if an even balance is required, the part that moves most needs the least stress.
• Always aim for clarity.

By Barbara A. Ehrlich Barbara Ehrlich is a private piano teacher based in Bedminster, NJ with a roster of current young piano students that includes a broad array of student ages, cultures and backgrounds. New Jersey Piano Lessons works closely with parents to oversee and coordinate music activities in a variety of areas, including piano lessons, technique, theory, ear training, and sight-reading. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Who Were Katharina And Maria Barbara In The Life Of JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH?

Barbara Katharina Bach, Johann Sebastian Bach's second cousin and elder sister of Maria Barbara Bach, Johann Sebastian Bach's future wife

Maria Barbara, did you hear who is coming to town? It is Johann Sebastian, our dear cousin Ambrosius' son. He has been away from Eisenach so long I am not sure I would recognize him. When his parents died he was sent to live with his brother Christoph in Ohrdruf for a few years, then I believe he was sent all the way to Luneburg for school. Lately, though I heard that Johann Sebastian had been playing the violin for the Duke's court in Weimar.

Now, Johann Sebastian has just been appointed the organist at the Neukirche right here in Arnstadt where that incredible new organ was just built! I was told that the concert Johann Sebastian gave when he came to try out the new organ was simply astounding and the committee just had to appoint him organist! I think I also heard, though, that he has to conduct the boy choir at the Neukirche. I wonder if he knows about that? I really do hope Johan Sebastian is up to the task of working with those ornery boys at the school. They sing so badly and can just be so awful!

However, the best news of all is that Sebastian is coming to visit his relatives next week when he gets to Arnstadt. That means us! We will be seeing our dear cousin Johann Sebastian very soon. You know he will be living at the Mayor's house, don't you? I can hardly wait to see him again!

Maria Barbara, have you heard? Johann Sebastian was just in a fight. I happened to be walking down the street near the Neukirche when this brawl erupted and that awful bassoonist Gegenbach and our dear JS had come to blows. I think our cousin Johann got the best of that little bassoon player, though, as Johann drew his sword and just cut to tatters Gegenbach's clothing! I was there! I saw it! And more than that, I am going to testify to the city authorities that the fight was not Johann Sebastian's fault! Poor Johann Sebastian is just so bothered by those awful no-count untalented boys at that school. It is too bad he can't just compose his beautiful organ music and be left alone.

The organ music dear Johann is composing now is so interesting. He tells me a wonderful composer named Georg Bohm that he met while he lived in Luneburg influenced him greatly. He just loves to compose variations on our wonderful hymns. Why sometimes just to be different, he puts the melody in the pedal in many of the pieces he is composing right now. He really is a genius that cousin of mine.

This story is one of a dozen vignettes from the organ and media event, "Bach and Sons" performed by Dr. Jeannine Jordan, concert organist.

By Dr. Jeannine Jordan Dr. Jeannine Jordan has a doctorate degree in organ performance with an emphasis in Baroque repertoire. She studied with renown Swiss organist, Guy Bovet, has performed throughout the world, and presents the organ music of Bach in a creative program, "Bach and Sons," utilizing visual media and narration. https://promotionmusic.org/Listening_Media.html She has also recorded organ music of Johann Sebastian Bach https://promotionmusic.org/Bach___Sons_PNQ5.html and his sons on historic 17th and 18th century organs in the Bach region of Saxony, Germany. Visit Bach and Sons to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Jordan to discover how you can bring Bach to your community. Article Source: EzineArticles

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How to Correct Bad Habits in Your VIOLIN Playing

As violin players we very often fall into bad habits which hamper playing and delay our progress by years. It is very important that you correct these problems as soon as you can remember the longer you ignore them the worse they will get and longer they will take to get rid of.

Stuffed bear on violin (exercise for good violin hold + correct contact point)
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

To begin correcting bad habits you must first begin to identify them you must be like a detective seeking out the root causes of the issues and difficulties you face in your playing. To do this play through the passages that are giving you difficulty extremely slowly without a metronome. Pay extreme attention all the while you are doing this be very relaxed and watch what your fingers and body are doing as you play.

There will be a cause and effect relationship behind every mistake that you make. The cause will be something you are doing wrong with your fingers and body that you haven't noticed before and the effect will be mistakes. It is your job to seek out these causes and correct them. Remember the reason behind almost all bad playing and mistakes is usually because you are holding tension in your body.

Concentrate on being very relaxed and tension free while you are playing and remember to breathe deeply in and out. You would not believe the amount of people who hold their breath while playing.

This is a very bad habit which will cause you to lock up and make endless mistakes

Once you have identified the causes of your mistakes and bad habits you must correct them. You do this by playing slowly through the problems passages using a metronome. You must pay extreme attention while doing this and stay relaxed playing the problem part correctly. You will have to do this over and over until the new way of playing is conditioned.

Do not ignore problems areas and bad habits trust me I did and I can tell you from experience that they soon grow into huge monsters that can cripple your playing for years. Remember it is always best to kill the monster while it is small.

Eric B. Hill is an professional violin player and teacher with over 20 years experience. Article Directory: EzineArticles

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5 SONGWRITING Tips For The Lazy

It's funny, being a songwriter myself, I always find that writing songs can sometimes be a chore. But why does it feel this way? Isn't this supposed to be my passion? Isn't this supposed to be something that I never get bored of?

… well, not exactly. Everything gets boring once in a while, even the things that you’re most passionate about. So every so often I like to take the lazy man's route to doing things. And surprisingly, I often produce some very good results!

Old Style Songwriting -  Flickr - whimsyglimmer

So listen up. If you newbie at songwriting, or even if you have been at it for a while -- I'm going to a couple of simple tricks that will help you start the writing process within minutes.

Here we go…

1) Review a particular situation in your day. It could be at work, during your travels, or at home. It could be with your workmates, your family or your friends. Just any situation that affected you in either a positive or negative way.

An example of this would be "when you're at work, your boss just keeps hounding you. But, the only thing that keeps you going throughout the day is that you know that somebody in the office has a crush on you"

(the above is a very dry example… but try to work with me here!)

2) Write down as many words as you can think of that relate to your situation.

Let's follow the example from earlier on:

anger, pain, sad, happy, excitement, nervousness, anxious, misery, impatience, relaxation, goofy, sophisticated, annoying, frustrating, antagonising, fancy, sexy, cool, pretty, smile, etc, etc… you get the point :-)

3) Write down random short sentences about your situation including the words that you mentioned him step 2. So let's continue in our little experiment…

“ the way he talked to me really angers me”

“ if only he knew the pain I suffered inside”

“ when I see her pretty eyes light up it makes me smile”

“ I have to act cool and sophisticated -- don't want to get frustrated”

“ he doesn't know what makes my day go by”

“ don't want to be in this misery for much longer”

Etc, etc. at this point it's important to note that you don't have to use all the words that you mentioned earlier in step two. As you can see I’ve even started to make up my own lines *without* any of the words too! Sometimes, I'm rhyming the words without even realizing. And this is exactly where the magic starts to happen…

You can easily turn this idea into a full-fledged song. Use rhymezone.com to help you find words that rhyme… and also other related words as well.

My example was very average and simplified -- but you can use an example that's a little more dramatic. You should really get wild with your ideas! Really, just let loose.

4) Listen to a ‘backing track’ (an instrumental of a song) that you have NO CLUE about. While it’s playing, make up a melody. Doesn’t have to be perfect, just create a melody on the fly. You don’t have to sing any lyrics either. Just ‘humm’ or ‘laaa’ a tune out until you’re hearts content.

Why do this? This is an exercise that will subconsciously preparing you to create melodies for you’re own chord sequences in the next step.

5) Create a SIMPLE chord progression on the guitar or keyboard. When I say simple, I mean *simple*. Maybe TWO chords for the verse and TWO chords for the chorus. Now create a melody on top of that chord progression. Record the song on tape. There you have it.

NOTE: if you don’t play an instrument, then hook up with someone who does. After all, you pretty much have half the song now :-)

Still think it’s difficult conceiving an idea? Want to know more? I have *plenty more* that I want to share with you…

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What Comprises a MODERN ORCHESTRA?

Have you felt being carried to faraway places as you listen to the great music that comes from an orchestra? Yes, practically nothing could beat the way that an orchestra creates music. It makes you feel like you’re in the clouds listening to angelic voices. Since Ancient Egypt, the orchestra has evolved to the modern orchestra that we have now. But what comprises the modern orchestra?

Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco (Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Basically, an orchestra is composed of different instruments that blend harmoniously together to create an enchanting music. There are different classifications of musical instruments that are used in the modern orchestra. These are the woodwinds, the brass, the percussion, the keyboards and the strings. These classifications are further subdivided into different instruments.

The woodwinds is composed of the piccolo, bassoons, contrabassoon, flutes, oboes, English horn, clarinets in B-flat, and bass clarinets in E-flat. The brass classification includes French Horns in F, tuba, trumpets in B-flat, Euphonium, and trombones. The keyboards are the celesta and piano. The strings are violins I & II, cellos, violas, and double basses. Lastly, the percussion instruments include the snare drum, bass drum and tenor drum. It also includes the timpani, cymbals, tam-tam, tambourine, xylophone, and triangle.

Take the case of Oakville chamber orchestra. You can find that there is a hierarchy between the instruments. In every group, there is a recognized leader that usually plays the solo. The principal first violin is usually considered as the leader of the orchestra. The only one that is higher than the violin is the conductor himself.

In the low brass section, it is the principal trombone that is considered as the leader. However, for the entire brass section, it is the principal trumpet. The principal oboe is for the woodwind section. With the different instrument groups, there are also those that are considered as the co-principals. This hierarchy between the instruments at the Oakville chamber orchestra actually provide for a great musical effect.

Most modern orchestras of today are led by the conductor and usually play Oakville classical music. You would be amazed at how the music that they create touches your heart and soul.

Learn about our services at www.oakvillechamber.com. Article Directory: Article Dashboard

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Jazz Gets Contemporary With ACID JAZZ

I think anyone and everyone that likes music, or who has a particular musical genre preference, can admit that sometimes the same music gets stale. You hear the same songs over and over again and begin to feel your passion slowly slip away. For me, this means that it is time to search for new avenues. So, the question that is presented to you here is do you need to update your jazz selection?

 Erykah Badu (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many people may not realize how much jazz has to offer. There are so many branches that your search may possibly be endless. An excellent contemporary category of jazz is acid jazz. Do not underestimate the awesome power that acid jazz possesses.

Now, you may be wondering, “What exactly is acid jazz?” Acid jazz combines different musical elements and instruments to create a unique blend of jazz, electronic and even hip hop at times. This does not mean that the genre lacks the same soul you would find in traditional jazz tunes. Just the opposite! In fact, Roy Ayers and Donald Byrd are credited as precursors to the acid jazz movement.

Even though the genre possesses a variety of instruments, including many that are electronic, artists still play live shows. This allows more room for creativity and free flowing sound since the songs are easy to manipulate while performing. Traditional jazz instruments are still incorporated in this genre.

One accredited artist that fits this category and is held in high esteem is Jamiroquai. As a prominent figure in the acid jazz community, Jamiroquai began their journey as artists in the early 1990s in the United Kingdom. The most famous of their songs, “Virtual Insanity,” hit the charts and was a number one across the globe. Other notable artists that fit into this category that can be mentioned are Erik Truffaz, Erykah Badu, Incognito, and Groove Collection.

While this genre is thought by many to be genius, it is difficult for traditional jazz listeners to dig into these futuristic sounds. The argument is that acid jazz does not possess the same soul and groove that traditional jazz offers. Others dare to say that acid jazz offers just the same things as classic jazz since its forerunners were one in the same. Instead of debating, just let your ears settle the argument for arguments’ sake. Of course we are all allowed to have our own opinions, but it never hurts to keep an open mind and consider new avenues. If you were or are a fan of jazz-funk, jazz-house, and jazz-fusion, you will love exploring this genre further. Take a look at different artists to explore the variety of sounds that is this wonderful musical creation.

For more information or for questions on buying or selling used Jazz, Acid Jazz and any other genre of music CDs, visit www.used-jazz.com. If you have any questions please email at customerservice@secondspin.com.

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BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN: The Notion Deep Inside

The magical moments of a Bruce Springsteen concert begin seconds after the lights in the arena, club or theatre go out, you're staring at the stage knowing that in the next few seconds Bruce will arrive ready to pour out his heart, sharing his soul night after night, city after city, concert after concert tour after tour. The stage lights begin to shine and within a minute or so the sounds of The Rising, 

Bruce Springsteen at Barack Obama rally in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

 Thunder Road, Badlands or Devils and Dust are all around you and once again Bruce and each of us are heading on that special journey that is so special each night. It's magic in the night, each and every night. 

"Experiencing" Bruce Springsteen in concert is part religious rock and roll, part revival meeting, a journey of joy, passion and excitement. Be it at Fenway Park with Bruce trying to end the Curse of the Bambino, the lone spotlight on Bruce singing Thunder Road simply with Roy Bittan on the piano in 1975 on the Born to Run tour, the Boss and the Big Man hitting/creating perfect synergy during Badlands - Bruce Springsteen on the 1978 Darkness Tour, the sheer force of Born in the USA on the 1984-1985 BIUSA Tour, the carnival like start of the 1988 Tunnel of Love Tour or that unforgettable moment during the Reunion tour when faith was restored - Bruce was back where he always belonged - on stage with the E Street Band, Bruce has thrilled so many of us. 

Each of us has our own Bruce experiences, stories that we've often wanted the opportunity to share with fellow Bruce fans. Chance encounters with Bruce, traveling to the Holy Mecca Asbury Park, taking your children/parents to their first Springsteen concert, meeting strangers who have become lifelong friends or even marrying fellow Bruce fans - there are countless stories that can only be told by each of us and we've never had that chance.Undoubtedly Bruce has moved you. Emotionally, politically or from a humanitarian perspective.

We are calling out to Bruce from the Jersey Shore, Philly, the backstreets of Boston, Bruce fans in the UK, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Germany, Holland, Japan, Brazil, Canada - everywhere and anywhere where Bruce fans call home.  

The journey continues... 

Author: L.Kirsch & Howard Bloom

Hearing Voices: Understanding The Different VOICE TYPES

Olive Fremstad (1871 - 1951)
,Swedish-American mezzo-soprano
 and soprano opera singer
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Voice type is a particular system for classifying opera and classical singers. The system allows composers, singers, and listeners to easily and quickly categorize voices. Here's a simple breakdown of the different types of singing voices.

Female Soprano: The female soprano voice typically ranges from middle C to at least the “soprano C,” that is two octaves higher. The voice is high-pitched and will vary from a light and sweet soubrette style to a rich and powerful dramatic soprano.

Female Mezzo-Soprano: The mezzo-soprano is more often used for choral voices. The mezzo-soprano range is often lower than the soprano and the tessitura, or comfortable timbre, is lower as well.

Female Contralto/Alto: The Contralto, or Alto, is the lowest female voice, usually deep and dark. The term alto is usually used in choral and popular music.

Male Sopranist: The sopranist is a man capable of reaching the levels of a female soprano. It is the highest range for male voices, and often sung in falsetto or by young men. Technically, part of the tenor range.

Male Tenor: Though there are a number of sub-classifications, tenor generally refers to simply a higher pitched male voice.

Male Baritone: This is the level that falls between a tenor and a bass. Deep and rich, but still with movement. The lyric baritone is a touch higher and lighter than the dramatic baritone, which calls for a fuller voice.

Male Bass: The bass is very low, in fact it is the lowest segment of the musical vocal. When a bass male sings, the room should rumble. The basso profundo is the deepest and darkest of the singing voices, one often used for dramatic and scary events. Meanwhile, the Basso cantante still retains a touch of agility.

Next time you're listening to your favorite singer, see if you can tell which class they are in.

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SAXOPHONE Giants: SONNY ROLLINS

Sugar Hill

Without a doubt one of the true giants of jazz tenor saxophone is Sonny Rollins. Born in Harlem, New York in 1930 Sonny began studying piano and alto saxophone at age 11. When Sonny turned 16 he switched to tenor saxophone in order to emulate one of his idols, the great Coleman Hawkins, who lived in his neighborhood. Thus began the development of one of the most unique and influential voices in jazz saxophone history.

Sonny Rollins at Stockholm Jazz Fest 2009. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Sonny grew up in the Sugar Hill neighborhood of Harlem surrounded by many jazz greats. Thelonius Monk took an interest in this young saxophonist and became his mentor. In 1948 at the age of 18 Sonny made his recording debut with Babs Gonzalez. Because of his immense talent he soon began working with jazz greats such as Charlie Parker, Bud Powell, Max Roach, Art Blakey, Fats Navarro, Miles Davis and the Modern Jazz Quartet.

Way Out West

In 1957 Sonny became the first known jazz musician to feature a trio without a piano. The trio which consisted of tenor saxophone, bass and drums displayed Sonny's ability to outline the harmony of a song while using his varied rhythmic lines. The first album recorded with this format was Way Out West which was recorded when Sonny made his first trip out west with the Max Roach Quintet.

Both the bassist, Ray Brown and the drummer, Shelly Manne were also in Los Angeles with the groups they were currently working with. Because of the busy schedule of all three musicians the recording session for this fantastic album started at 3 a.m. These three musicians had never worked with one another before but managed to record a classic jazz album in one session.

The Bridge

In the summer of 1959, at the height of his popularity, Sonny began his first and most famous sabbatical from performing and recording music. He had become dissatisfied with his own playing and with the hype surrounding his place among the jazz giants. During this 2 year period Sonny would spend his nights practicing on the Williamsburg Bridge on the Lower East Side of Manhattan so as not to disturb his neighbors. In the winter of 1962 he returned to the studio to his next album entitled The Bridge.

80 Years and Counting

On September 7, 2010 Sonny turned 80 years old and is still blowing strong. On December 2, 2009 I had the pleasure of seeing this saxophone giant perform once again at the Kennedy center in Washington D.C. I had seen him many times before, but on this night on truly magical connection was made between the artist and the audience. If you are a jazz fan and have never seen Sonny play live then you owe it to yourself even if you have to travel to do it.

Blow Sonny blow.

By Joel Krett Joel Krett currently plays tenor saxophone and harmonica with The Subway Show Band out of Morgantown, WV and is an avid jazz fan. Article Source: EzineArticles

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