Stride piano is a jazz piano technique that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily from the Harlem Renaissance scene. It’s a dynamic and complex style of play that’s evolved from earlier forms like ragtime. Stride piano is characterized by a rhythmic, percussive left-hand accompaniment that ‘strides’ across the keyboard. This involves the left hand … Read more
When it comes to deciding which is harder to learn, jazz or classical piano, it’s not a question with a simple answer. The learning curve for each style varies as it appeals to different skill sets and areas of musical expertise. Classical piano typically requires a detailed focus on technique and the faithful reproduction of … Read more
Learning to play the blues on the piano can be one of the most rewarding endeavors for any aspiring musician. Rooted in the deep tradition of African American music, blues piano offers a rich tapestry of emotional expression and technical skill. As a beginner, you’ll be happy to know that blues piano is characterized by … Read more
Embarking on the journey of jazz piano doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right selection of easy jazz standards, you can begin to understand the genre’s structure and nuances while enjoying some of the most timeless melodies. These compositions serve as an accessible gateway, introducing you to the world of improvisation and chord progressions … Read more
Learning to play jazz piano is a journey that intertwines the discipline of practice with the spontaneity of the genre itself. Unlike classical piano, jazz is all about improvisation, creating music that’s as much about feeling as it is about technique. The time it takes to learn jazz piano can vary widely depending on several … Read more
Deciding whether to learn guitar or piano is a common dilemma for budding musicians. You might wonder which instrument is easier to master or which will allow you to play your favorite songs sooner. Both the guitar and piano have unique advantages and challenges when it comes to learning. The guitar is often praised for … Read more
Learning to play the piano can be an enriching experience, not just for the direct skills it imparts but also for the benefits it may have on learning other instruments, like the guitar. If you’ve ever been curious about whether sitting down at the keys can improve your guitar playing, you’re onto something. In fact, … Read more
Learning to play the piano without looking at the keys can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re a beginner. However, this skill is essential for improving your technique and becoming more confident in your performances. It’s all about developing muscle memory and a good sense of spatial awareness on the keyboard. As you … Read more
Starting your journey into piano theory is a bit like receiving the keys to a treasure chest filled with musical insights. When you begin to learn the basics, you’ll quickly understand that music theory is far from a dry set of rules; it’s the backbone that supports the music you hear and play. Piano theory … Read more
Piano theory is the roadmap of music that you play or wish to engage with on the keyboard. It encompasses the essentials of reading music, understanding harmony, and grasping rhythm—essentially, the language of music. Music theory lets you decipher the why and how behind the pieces you’re drawn to, giving insight not just into the … Read more