Archive for July, 2010
List of stuff you need
Knowing what gear to get a little intimidating for someone starting out. Let me help by saying there are some basic things you will be needing as my student. All students (yep… everyone) Graph paper, lined A PeeChee style folder. A pressed card stock folder will work, but it cant be a fancy non-folding type [...]
Read moreHow to Pick the Right "Attack" for Your Words
Guitarists and bassists talk about the attack of a note – the amount of force and decisiveness with which a note is initiated. Yet again, vocalists can learn lessons from other instruments.
Today’s tip is a simple one regarding the attack of you…
How Too Much Technique Gets in the Way of the Art
First, train your voice.
Second, forget the training.
Then, repeat the cycle… again and again.
Why?
Because if all you do is focus on technique, you won’t ever connect with the art!
If you’re thinking about h…
Buy Local
A word on buying locally. I am aware of the cost savings of buying instruments online (I do it myself). However, I make it a point to buy something from the local stores when I can. Can you imagine what it would be like if there were no music stores? It’s what will happen if you don’t support them. When you buy from a local store, you are also paying for the customer service and the expertise of the people who run them (all the music stores in our area have owner/musicians).
Read moreWhen is it time to leave your band?
Are you in a band just because you want to be in a band?
Congratulations: Not everyone gets to be in a band!
But beware: Being in just any band – or staying in longer than you should – is not always a good thing.
There is alwa…
Learning music for the first time?
You will find three different lists below for adults (age 18 and above), parents, and younger students (under the age of 18). I value dedicated students as much as you value an excellent instructor. I have provided a checklist for your own self assessment. If you can check most of the statements (around 75% of [...]
Read moreHow to choose a music teacher
Music has advanced far beyond the time when someone could teach himself (or herself) to become a world class player. If your ambition is to become a competent player and a competent musician, you need a competent music teacher. Even if your goals are more modest, you can reach those goals far more quickly, easily [...]
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