Instruments

Note2Self: “I Love This!”, with Lisa McCormick

by Christopher Sutton | Nov 21, 2017 | Podcast, Guitar, Interviews, Planning and Goals

Sometimes, it’s not your skills holding you back, but your mindset. Musician/teacher Lisa McCormick shares the secret of overcoming these mental barriers!

Introduction to Blues Music

by Musical U Team | Nov 20, 2017 | Genres, Guitar, Instruments, Jazz, Keyboard, Singing | 0 comments

Explore blues music history, learn to play and sing the blues, and discover why this soulful genre continues to shape modern music. Start your journey.

6 Steps to Learning Jazz Guitar Improvisation

by Guest Expert | Nov 15, 2017 | Jazz, Guitar

Zac Green of Zing Instruments shares the chords, progressions, and techniques every jazz guitarist should learn to be able to jam and improvise like a pro.

Beyond the “Quick Fix”, with Ged Brockie

by Christopher Sutton | Nov 14, 2017 | Podcast, Guitar, Interviews, Musicality, Performing, Planning and Goals

Professional musician and innovative music educator Ged Brockie shares his advice for resisting shortcuts and learning an instrument – the right way.

Singing in English: Tips for ESL Singers and Coaches

by Gino Burgio | Nov 13, 2017 | Singing, Career

Singing in English as a non-native speaker is a challenge that can be surmounted with a good vocal coach and an understanding of the quirks of the language.

Creating Background Music Masterpieces, with Mike Reed

by Andrew Bishko | Nov 8, 2017 | Career, Audio Mixing, Instruments, Interviews

Composer Mike Reed shows you around the esoteric world of background music composition, sharing his techniques and creative process along the way.

How to Sing Smarter, with Meghan Nixon

by Christopher Sutton | Nov 7, 2017 | Podcast, Interviews, Singing, Singing in Tune, Solfa, Tone Deafness

Vocal coach Meghan Nixon explains how ear training, musicianship, and “singing smart” go hand in hand, and shares her framework for hitting the right notes.

How To Play Ukulele By Ear

by Guest Expert | Nov 1, 2017 | Ear Training, Instruments, Playing By Ear

Ukulele pro Dave Ellis gives expert advice on taking your first steps in playing by ear, and why you should set that tuner aside.

Getting “Off Book”, with Melody Payne

by Christopher Sutton | Oct 31, 2017 | Podcast, Interviews, Keyboard, Playing By Ear, Sight Reading

In this podcast, plucky pianista Melody Payne shares the secret of breaking free of sheet music and adding your own spin to the songs you love.

About Pentascales

by Christopher Sutton | Oct 19, 2017 | Podcast, Keyboard, Scales

The simple-yet-powerful pentascale is a staple in piano. Learn how these five notes can help you kick off your improvisation journey with a bang.

How I Resurrected My High School Instrument

by Marisa Balistreri | Oct 18, 2017 | Instruments, Musicality, Performing, Planning and Goals

Revisiting an instrument is like getting reacquainted with an old friend – with some hurdles. Learn how aural skills can make this reunion go smoothly!

Finding the Notes Yourself, with Sara Campbell

by Christopher Sutton | Oct 17, 2017 | Podcast, Improvisation, Interviews, Keyboard

Music educator and Musical U resident pro Sara Campbell shares her insights and tips for improvisation and playing by ear – for musicians of all levels!