Music Theory

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Music Theory: The Secret Weapon You Didn’t Know You Needed

Have you ever wondered what makes a song tick? Why does a certain chord progression evoke joy, while another brings a sense of melancholy? Enter the magical world of music theory.

Now, I’ll admit, I used to be intimidated by the idea of music theory. Back in school, a classmate declared the class “super hard” and that was enough to scare me off. Big mistake. Here’s why:

Music theory isn’t some arcane code reserved for musical geniuses. It’s the language of music, a set of tools that unlocks a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sounds you love. It’s like learning the grammar of your favorite language. It doesn’t make you speak any less beautifully, but it gives you the power to express yourself with more intention and clarity.

It Is Fun!

Here’s the real kicker: music theory is actually FUN. It’s like solving a puzzle, figuring out how notes fit together to create the magic we call music. Understanding scales, chords, and key signatures empowers you to:

  • Write better songs: No more aimlessly strumming chords and hoping for the best. Theory gives you the tools to intentionally craft melodies, harmonies, and progressions that evoke specific emotions and create a cohesive musical experience.
  • Play with more freedom: Theory isn’t about restricting your creativity; it’s about giving you the freedom to explore different sounds and styles with confidence. You’ll be able to improvise, experiment, and break the “rules” in a way that makes musical sense.
  • Appreciate music on a deeper level: When you understand the “why” behind the music you love, it becomes even more impactful. You’ll start noticing the intricate details in your favorite songs, the clever use of chords, and the way melodies weave their emotional spell.

So, the next time you hear someone say music theory is hard, just smile and know the truth: it’s a playground waiting to be explored. It’s a language that, once learned, opens doors to a world of musical possibilities. Trust me, you won’t regret taking the plunge.

Start with the basics, you’ll be surprised at how quickly the “aha” moments start rolling in. Then see you’ll see how much more fun and fulfilling your musical journey becomes.

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

Building Rapport

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Why Your Guitar Teacher Rocks (Even More) When You Like Them

We all learn better from people we like. This is especially true when it comes to something as personal and potentially frustrating as learning an instrument. For a guitar instructor, building rapport is one of the most important aspects of teaching; it’s about creating an environment where you can thrive.

Why Building Rapport Outshines Everything

You are far more likely to put in the extra practice after lessons if you are genuinely enjoying what you’re learning. A good guitar teacher becomes more than an instructor. They become a mentor, someone who ignites your passion for music and keeps you motivated. Sure, a teacher might have all the technical knowledge in the world, but if there is no connection with the student, the magic of learning can fizzle out faster than a popped guitar string.

 

 

Building Rapport

Gaining so much confidence on the uke

This positive connection goes beyond just enjoying the teacher’s company. Here is why building rapport is key to unlocking your musical potential:

  • Motivation Matters: When you like your teacher, you’re more likely to be motivated to learn. Their enthusiasm becomes contagious. You start to see the guitar not just as an instrument, but as a gateway to a world of musical expression.
  • A Place for Mistakes: Learning guitar is full of stumbles and wrong notes. A good teacher sets up an environment where you can experiment and make mistakes without fear of judgment. This keeps things relaxed and allows you to learn from your errors and grow as a musician.
  • Turning Up the Fun Factor: If your guitar lessons turn into a dry, academic slog, you are going to lose interest fast. A great teacher understands the importance of keeping things fun and engaging. They will incorporate your favorite songs and tailor lessons to your interests. They may even throw in a little humor to keep things lively.

Here is the thing: while the technical aspects are crucial, a good teacher knows that music is about passion and enjoyment. They will strike a balance between building your skills and keeping the spark alive.

So, the next time you rock out with your guitar teacher, remember: it is not just about the notes you are learning, it’s about the connection you’re building. A teacher who gets you, motivates you, and keeps things fun is the perfect recipe for guitar greatness!

If you have any questions or comments, please contact us.

Google Drive + Sheets

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Google Drive and Sheets: A Student’s Guide to Organization and Practice

This blog post unveils a powerful weapon in your practice arsenal: Google Drive + Sheets. Sheet is such a helpful tool for our students to be able to keep track of where they are and what we’ve covered.

Why Google Drive?  

Google Drive, accessible from any device with an internet connection, makes it easy to stay organized. Gone are the days of lost worksheets or misplaced notes. The nice thing is that it’s completely free and doesn’t require a subscription.

Tracking You Lesson in Google Sheets

Google Sheets, a spreadsheet program within Drive, becomes your personalized practice companion. Here’s the magic:

  • One Simple Link: At the end of the first lesson, we will send a link in an email granting you access to your very own practice tracker sheet in your folder. It is easy to get to.
  • See Your Stuff Only: Google Drive keeps your practice data private. Only you can see your progress and what you are working on. Plus, you can leave notes and questions on the sheet as well.
  • Columns for Clarity:
    • Songs: Track which songs you’re tackling. You’ll also have a record of all of the other songs you have previously learned. You can keep it fun by reviewing those during your practice session.
    • Tabs or Theory: You will have a list the specific elements covered in each lesson (scales, chords, popular riff’s etc.).
    • Practice Hints and Ideas: At the top of the sheet, we put a list of helpful tips and ideas for mastering each song or concept. There are also ideas to make things a lot of fun while you practice.
  • Review at a Glance: Throughout the semester, your sheet becomes a running log of your progress. If you want to review a specific technique, a quick glance at your sheet can jog your memory.

 

Making the Most of Your Practice Tracker

  • Fill it Up: After each lesson, we will jot down the songs and theory covered. Feel free to add any notes or questions you have right on the sheet. There is even an additional column specifically for comments.
  • Specific: Each column records exactly what was covered in the lesson with the date to make it very easy to find. This is nice if you went on vacation or had to miss a lesson.
  • Own Your Practice: The Sheet can help structure your practice sessions, focusing on targeted elements.

With Google Drive and Sheets working together, you’ll be well on your way to organized, productive practice sessions. Remember, consistency is key!

If you are interested in lessons, feel free to contact us to set up your first free introductory lesson.

Chordify

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Chordify in the Studio

Getting your child interested in music is a fantastic way to foster creativity, develop coordination, and boost their confidence. One thing that has been a game changer for my students is incorporating an app called Chordify into their lessons. This innovative app is like a musical playground, turning learning guitar or ukulele into a fun and engaging experience.

Chordify

Chordify Layout

It is Inspiring

This awesome online tool is like a musical playground. Here’s why it gets students excited about learning guitar and ukulele:

Jam Along to Their Favorite Tunes: Chordify allows them to play along with almost any song and see the chords displayed in a clear, easy-to-understand way. It’s like having a personal sheet music maker! It uses measures to display the chords and that can help with strum patterns. Each measure has a square for the beat which is ideal when showing them strum patterns.

Makes Learning Feel Like Play: It’s an interactive player that can also animate the chords as the song plays. This helps with chord memorization and speeds up their ability to make chord changes faster. Playing along with the actual song exciting for the students and has made an enormous difference in their chord retention.

Builds a Strong Foundation: It helps develop important musical skills. When students switch between chords, they’re naturally honing their timing and coordination. Plus, seeing the chord progressions visually helps them understand how songs are built.

Boosts Confidence and Keeps Them Motivated: As the student progresses, they’ll be able to tackle more complex songs, building their confidence and keeping them motivated to learn more.

 

I send each student a link that will have a playlist of songs we’ve covered in the lessons. They can then review songs we’ve done from their first lesson. I have the premium version which unlocks everything, but there is free version allows up to 3 songs per day to use in its basic form.

If you are interested in lessons, please contact me to start your musical journey!

Fender Telecaster

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American vs. Mexican Fender Telecasters: Which One Rocks Your World?

The Fender Telecaster, or Tele for short, is a legendary guitar. But with so many models to choose from, one of the biggest questions for aspiring Tele players is: American-made or Mexican-made? Both are fantastic instruments, but there are some key differences to consider.

I have played both and love my Mexican Tele. It is so easy to play and the pick-ups sound incredible. A few of my students purchased the same guitar because they love the sound so much.

 

Mexican Telecaster

Mexican Telecaster

Origin

American Fenders are crafted in the USA, following Fender’s original specifications. Mexican Fenders, as the name suggests, are built in Mexico.

The Fender Telecaster Price Point

American Fenders generally have a higher price tag. This reflects the cost of American labor and materials. Mexican Fenders offer excellent value, making that classic Tele sound more accessible. For a new American made model you are probably going to spend about $1500 to $2000. If you get a new Mexican made Tele, you are looking at around $800 to $900.

Construction & Materials 

Both use similar tone woods like alder and maple for the body and neck, but the American models might boast more premium cuts and lighter weight for improved resonance. American Fenders often have a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, known for its breathability and vintage vibe, while Mexican Fenders typically use a more durable polyester finish.

Hardware & Electronics in the Fender Telecaster

American Fenders tend to feature US-made pickups and hardware, while Mexican models might use parts from other manufacturers. This can influence tone and playability either for the better or worse depending on your tastes.

Telecaster Feel & Tone

There can be subtle variations in feel due to factors like neck profiles and fretwork. American Fenders might have more hand-crafted aspects and nuanced aging processes, potentially leading to a more “refined” feel. Tonally, both can achieve that quintessential Tele twang, but American models may offer more sonic complexity and detail.

The Verdict?

Don’t get hung up on the origin! Both American and Mexican Telecasters are fantastic instruments. Here’s how to choose:

  • Budget: Mexican Fenders are incredible, offering excellent quality at a more affordable price.
  • Playing Style: If you prioritize vintage vibe, American Fenders might be a better fit. Mexican Fenders often cater to a more modern playing experience.
  • Try It Yourself! Ultimately, the best way to choose is to play both and see which one feels and sounds better to you.

Remember, there are amazing players who use both American and Mexican Fenders. The most important thing is to find a Tele that inspires you to create music!

If you are interested in guitar lessons, contact us to set up your first session.

 

Mixolydian Mode

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Mixolydian Mode: A Major Scale with a Bluesy Twist

Today, we look at the soulful sounds of the Mixolydian mode. In music theory, modes are like variations on the major scale. They use the same notes but start and end on different degrees, creating unique flavors. This is a great scale to use when writing lead guitar parts!

What Makes it a Mixolydian Mode?

The mixolydian is the fifth mode of the major scale. Let’s use C major (C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C) as an example. The G mixolydian takes those same notes but starts on G (G-A-B-C-D-E-F-G).

This seemingly simple change has a big impact on the sound. The major scale has a bright and happy feel. The mixolydian, however, takes on a more bluesy and rocking character. This is due to its defining characteristic: a flattened seventh degree (the F note in G mixolydian). This “minor seventh” interval is what creates that bluesy tension and “dominant” quality in the mixolydian.

Mixolydian Mode Masters: Where to Find it

The mixolydian mode is a favorite among many musicians, and chances are you can find artists using it live near you! Here are some genres where the mixolydian shines:

Blues and Blues Rock: The mixolydian mode’s bluesy DNA makes it a natural fit for these genres. Bands like The Allman Brothers Band and ZZ Top frequently use the mixolydian mode in their riffs and solos, creating that signature bluesy groove.

Classic Rock and Hard Rock: The mixolydian mode’s rocking energy is perfect for driving guitar riffs. Bands like Guns and Roses “Sweet Child o Mine”  and CCR’s “Fortunate Son” incorporated the mixolydian into their music, giving it a powerful and aggressive edge.

Jazz and Funk: The mixolydian mode’s versatility extends to jazz and funk. Miles Davis used it extensively in his improvisations, while funk bands like Jamiroquai tap into its rhythmic potential to create infectious grooves.

Identify the mode by ear…Here are the key giveaways:

The Flattened Seventh Degree: Listen for that bluesy “minor seventh” interval between the root note and the seventh scale degree.

The Overall Character: The mixolydian has a bluesy, rocking, or funky vibe compared to the major scale. It often feels “unfinished” or leads back to the tonic (like it wants to resolve), thanks to that missing major seventh degree.

With a little exploration, you might be surprised by how often you hear the mixolydian mode in music around you.

Finding Mixolydian Shows Near You

Ready to hunt down some mixolydian magic in your own backyard? Check out some blues or jazz bands playing near you. These genres are prime hunting grounds for the mixolydian mode. Musicians in these genres are often well-versed in music theory and might be incorporating the mixolydian mode into their improvisations. If you are interested in learning more about modes, please contact us.

Lydian Mode

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Unveiling the Brightness: A Dive into the Lydian Mode with Music Theory

Music theory offers a ton of scales beyond the well-traveled paths of major and minor. Let’s take a look at the Lydian mode, a scale that injects a burst of sunshine and a touch of the unexpected into musical creations.

Lydian Mode: A Major Scale with a Twist

In music theory, modes are like alternate tunings of the major scale. They use the same notes but start and end on different degrees, resulting in unique sonic identities. The Lydian mode is the fourth mode of the major scale. Let’s use C major (C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C) as our example. The F Lydian mode takes those same notes but starts on F (F-G-A-B-C-D-E-F).

This seemingly minor tweak has a significant impact on the sound. The major scale is known for its bright and happy character. The Lydian mode, however, takes that brightness and cranks it up a notch. This is due to its defining characteristic: a raised fourth degree (the B natural in F Lydian). Compared to the B flat in F major, this raised fourth creates a unique interval called an augmented fourth, which adds a shimmering quality to the scale. Joe Satriani uses it a lot on guitar to make some amazing riffs.

The Lydian Landscape: From Sunshine to Space Age

The Lydian mode’s bright and otherworldly sound makes it a favorite among musicians seeking to create specific atmospheres. Here are some fascinating applications:

  • Pop and Wide-Open Spaces: The Lydian mode’s optimistic character is perfect for evoking feelings of joy, hope, and wide-open spaces. Pop tunes or the soundtrack add to a road trip adventure.
  • Adding a Touch of the Otherworldly: The Lydian mode’s augmented fourth can create a sense of mystery or detachment from reality. This makes it a great choice for sci-fi soundtracks or adding a touch of the unexpected to a piece.
  • Jazz Improvisation: The Lydian mode is a playground for jazz musicians. Its unique intervals allow for creative improvisation and unexpected chord progressions.

What Makes it Lydian Mode? Recognizing the Shimmer

So, how do you identify the Lydian mode by ear? Here are the key giveaways in music theory terms:

  • The Raised Fourth Degree: That augmented fourth between the first and fourth scale degrees is the Lydian’s calling card. It’s the interval that creates its bright and shimmering sound.
  • The Overall Character: Listen for a brighter, more optimistic sound compared to the major scale. The Lydian mode’s lack of a leading tone (the sharpened seventh degree in major) creates a sense of floating resolution.

 Lydian Legends: Artists Who Embrace the Bright and Beautiful

The Lydian mode isn’t the most common guest at the pop music party. But for those artists seeking something unique, the Lydian mode becomes a secret weapon. Let’s meet some musical luminaries who’ve embraced the Lydian magic:

  • Pioneering Prog Rockers: Progressive rock thrives on pushing boundaries, and the Lydian mode is a perfect tool for that. Bands like Rush (Freewill) and Yes incorporated Lydian passages into their complex compositions, adding an unexpected twist to their sound.
  • The King of Pop and Beyond: Even the world of pop isn’t immune to the Lydian’s allure. Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature” prominently features the Lydian in its verses and chorus, contributing to the song’s uplifting atmosphere.
  • Alternative Icons: Grunge might not be the first genre that comes to mind when thinking Lydian, but Nirvana used it to great effect in “Drain You.” The mode adds a layer of complexity and unease to the song’s raw energy.
  • The Masters of Mood: Bands known for crafting specific moods readily embrace the Lydian mode. Radiohead, with their penchant for introspective soundscapes, uses the mode in “Pyramid Song” to create a sense of floating detachment. Similarly, Wilco employs the Lydian’s brightness in “Jesus, Etc.” to evoke a feeling of wide-open possibility.
  • Beyond Rock and Pop: The Lydian mode isn’t confined to popular music. Film composers understand its power too. The iconic “Simpsons Theme Song“ utilizes a Lydian Dominant scale, contributing to the show’s playful and slightly subversive humor.

Hope this helped you get a general idea of  what the Lydian mode is. For more information on modes, feel free to contact us.

Phrygian Mode

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Unveiling the Mystery: The Phrygian Mode

In the world of music theory, scales extend way beyond the familiar major and minor. Today, we take a look at the intriguing Phrygian mode, a scale with a unique sound and a long history.

What is It?

The Phrygian mode is one of the seven musical modes derived from the major scale. It’s essentially the major scale starting on its third degree. Imagine a C major scale (C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C). The E Phrygian mode takes those same notes but starts on E (E-F-G-A-B-C-D-E).

This twist creates a distinct sound. Compared to the major scale’s brightness, it has a darker, more mysterious feel. This is because of its defining characteristic: a flattened second degree. This “minor second” interval creates a dissonant tension that sets the mode apart.

The Allure  

The Phrygian mode’s unique character makes it a favorite among musicians seeking to add a touch of exoticism or intensity to their music. Here are some ways it’s used:

  • Creating a Spanish Flair: It is often linked to Spanish musical traditions, lending a flamenco-esque feel to pieces. This is done a lot on guitar.
  • Evoking Mystery and Darkness: The mode’s inherent tension is perfect for building suspense or depicting darker emotions. This is used in many film scores and heavy metal.
  • Adding a Touch of the Unexpected: A well-placed phrase can surprise and intrigue listeners. It can disrupt the expected flow of a piece in a captivating way.

How Does it Differ from Minor Scales?

The Phrygian mode might sound familiar to your ears. It closely resembles the natural minor scale (Aeolian mode) –– but with a twist. The natural minor scale has a major second degree, which contributes to its characteristic “woe is me” feeling. The Phrygian mode’s flattened second degree injects a hint of mystery and exoticism, setting it apart from its minor cousin.

It might not be as common as its major and minor cousins, but its distinctive character makes it a powerful tool for musicians. So, next time you hear a song with a touch of mystery or a hint of Spanish flair, there’s a good chance this mode is lurking beneath the surface.

What Makes it Phrygian?

So, how do you identify the Phrygian mode? Here are the key giveaways:

  • The Flattened Second Degree: That minor second interval between the first and second scale degrees is the Phrygian’s calling card.
  • The Overall Character: Listen for a darker, more exotic sound compared to the major scale or even the natural minor scale (Aeolian mode). The Phrygian’s tension sets it apart.

How is it Used?

While major and minor scales dominate most Western music, the Phrygian mode adds a touch of the mysterious. Its haunting quality has found its way into various genres:

Classical Music: Composers like Claudio Monteverdi and Frédéric Chopin incorporated the Phrygian mode for its dramatic effect. One example of how it is use in classical music is Chopin’s Symphony in E minor op. 98.

Heavy Metal: The mode’s dissonance and intensity are a perfect fit for the genre’s darker side. Bands like Slayer and Metallica use the Phrygian mode.

Folk Music: The Phrygian mode is a staple in certain folk traditions, particularly those from Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

 

Exploring the Phrygian mode opens doors to new sonic landscapes. It’s a scale waiting to be unleashed in your own musical creations.

For more information about using modes, feel free to shoot me a comment or question.

Dorian Mode

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Unveiling the Dorian Mode: A Bright Twist on the Minor Scale

In the world of music, venturing beyond the standard major and minor scales unlocks a ton of unique sounds and expressive possibilities. Among these is the Dorian mode, offering a captivating blend of familiar and unexpected.

A  Little Music Theory-What is a Mode?

Before diving in, let’s take a look at the concept of modes. They are essentially different scales derived from a major scale, each starting on a different scale degree and offering its own distinct character.

The Major Scale’s Modes:

Each major scale holds within it seven potential modes:

  1. Ionian: The major scale itself (C major: C D E F G A B C)
  2. Dorian: Starting on the second degree (D Dorian: D E F G A B C D)
  3. Phrygian: Starting on the third degree (E Phrygian: E F G A B C D E)
  4. Lydian: Starting on the fourth degree (F Lydian: F G A B C D E F)
  5. Mixolydian: Starting on the fifth degree (G Mixolydian: G A B C D E F G)
  6. Aeolian: The natural minor scale, starting on the sixth degree (A Aeolian: A B C D E F G A)
  7. Locrian: Starting on the seventh degree (B Locrian: B C D E F G A B)

The Enchanting Dorian:

Dorian mode, starting on the second degree of the major scale, is a minor scale with a twist. Unlike the standard minor scale (Aeolian), it has a raised sixth degree. This seemingly small change creates a big impact on the sound.

In the key of C, for example, the D Dorian scale would be: D E F G A B C D. Notice the B natural instead of the B flat found in the D minor scale.

This raised sixth degree gives Dorian a brighter, more uplifting character compared to the typical minor sound. It can evoke a sense of hope, mystery, or even a majestic quality, depending on the context.

Who uses the Dorian Mode?

Dorian has found its way into various musical styles, making it a versatile tool for musicians across genres. Here are a few examples:

  • Jazz: Dorian is a staple in jazz guitar improvisation, particularly in modal jazz where musicians explore different modes over specific chords.
  • Rock and pop: Many guitarists and keyboard players utilize the Dorian mode to add color and sophistication to their solos and chord progressions. One example is Evil Ways by Santana.
  • Folk and traditional music: Dorian’s unique character is also found in various folk music styles, adding a distinct flavor to melodies and harmonies. A great example of this is Scarborough Fair by Simon and Garfunkel.

Exploring the Dorian Mode:

If you’re looking to expand your musical horizons, the Dorian mode is a fantastic place to start. By understanding its construction, sound, and how it fits within the broader context of modes, you can unlock new creative possibilities and add a fresh touch to your music. Please contact us to leave a comment or if you’d like more information on how the modes work.

 

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.