by Jamey Mann As a student progresses, they will inevitably want to try competitions and eventually college auditions. With this comes added responsibility that goes beyond just practicing for their weekly lesson or student recital. It is important for teachers to guide students through their first experiences with these processes. However, I try to make […]
The controversy over tablature comes from the fact the tablature is not reading music. It generally does not indicate rhythm, key, notes, and much more. Therefore, trying to learn or teach anyone using tablature exclusively is very detrimental to the learning process. Students who are taught or learn this way often find it difficult to […]
Improvisation is the act of accessing creativity in the moment and under pressure, to resolve or direct the resolution of a situation to meet objectives. It is the ability to converge composition, creativity and execution to achieve success. And the benefits of learning improvisation have been proven in both young people and adults to improve […]
An important part of learning an instrument and performing is bowing properly. Often overlooked, taking a bow properly puts the finishing touches on a performance and adds to a student’s confidence. Not knowing this skill can lead to awkwardness in what otherwise might be a fine performance. Every teacher and instrument have their own process […]
One of the most difficult techniques new guitar students face is the dreaded bar chord. A bar is when a guitarist uses one finger to hold down 2 or more strings. Unfortunately, this technique is often made more difficult than it has to be. If a student is not made aware of body mechanics, how […]
When taking on any new hobby/activity there is always a little more needed to get started than you think. Many think all you need to go hiking is a good pair of shoes, however when you start getting into it you might realize you need a little more especially to make your time more enjoyable. […]
“Stop Going Through the Motions!”, something that I heard screamed across the football field as a kid. This refers to anyone on the football field that was not giving their all or was not in the moment. Instead, we were jogging when should’ve been sprinting or daydreaming instead of paying attention to the play on […]
As the school year begins and the recital season draws closer, it’s a good time to review some performance etiquette practices! You’ve practiced diligently to memorize your piece, you’ve signed up for a time slot, and you’ve had your dress rehearsal with your accompanist. It’s time to perform in recital! If you’re like most […]
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, summer brings with it a sense of excitement and adventure. It’s the perfect time to engage in activities that uplift our spirits and create lasting memories. Among the multitude of options, music-related activities stand out as a fantastic way to enhance your summer experience. Whether […]
Something that frustrates me as a teacher is the excuse “I’m sooooo busy”. Which to me does not change the fact that you did not practice, you made no progress, and the student is getting frustrated by lack of progress. This is a trend that I’ve noticed getting worse and it may be true that […]
In my last post, I shared the beginning of my experience building a medieval harp replica at Folklore Village in early August. The post concluded with a cliffhanger – I had just carved through the side wall of my soundbox! Calamity! Read on to learn how some modern technology saved my 9th century reconstruction: I […]
Folklore Village is a folk craft school near Dodgeville, WI that offers a variety of classes covering many art mediums. The “Build a Small Harp in a Weekend” course gave me an opportunity to learn some hand carving skills while building a small medieval harp whose design is based on a depiction of a harp […]
Creative ways to practice Music Theory MusicTheory.Net is a wonderful, FREE tool to help you practice everything from intervals to complex chords. It includes both paper and ear training exercises. We highly recommend this site to prospective music majors. Sheet Music MusicNotes.com is a super helpful music download website, where you can search and read through examples […]
So you want to major in music… We’ve compiled a list of major music schools in the Tri-State area with direct links to school information and audition requirements. We hope this helps you in your journey to pursue a career in music! Remember: If you are planning on majoring in music or would like to […]
The key to instrument longevity Humidifiers For classical strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass): Use a Damp-It (buy online or at a local music store). One or two in the instrument with the instrument in its closed case, should keep the instrument well humidified. Keep the Damp-It moist, but not soaking. For guitars: Purchase a guitar […]
How music is good for your mind, body and soul Ten Benefits of Music 1. Early musical training assists in developing the left side of the brain which is responsible for language and reasoning. Studies show that early musical training helps “wire” the brain, thus strengthening language processing. 2. Music is most recently being used […]
So you’ve bought the instrument and signed your child up for lessons…now what? It can be daunting to have your child undertake music, especially if you’ve never studied music yourself. But have no fear! CSM is here to help you. So what can you do to make sure the lesson experience is rewarding for everyone […]