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How to Create a Simple Improvisation Using Just One Chord
If you learned piano through traditional classical lessons, you were probably trained to read, interpret, and reproduce music exactly as written. Improvising can feel like stepping into a world without instructions — uncertain, exposed, and a little intimidating. Although building a foundation in music theory and understanding harmony is vital to becoming a confident improviser,…
Why understanding harmony makes you a better pianist
If you’ve ever watched an experienced pianist sight-read effortlessly, play by ear, or improvise freely, you’ve probably wondered — how do they do that? The secret often lies in their understanding of harmony. When you understand how chords fit together to create movement and emotion, everything you do at the piano becomes easier, more connected,…
How to learn Music Theory as an Adult
Learning music theory will help you become a better musician. It gives you insight into how music works, helps you to broaden your skills, explore creative possibilities, and interpret the music you play with greater understanding. This article explores some of the different ways that you can study theory to help develop your knowledge and…
The 30 minute practice plan for busy people
If you learned piano years ago and have recently started again, you might find yourself wondering how to fit practice into a full schedule. Between work, family, and everything else, long practice sessions can feel unrealistic — but even with just 30 minutes, you can make meaningful progress if you approach your time at the…
How to Start Playing Piano Again After Years Away
Many adult students return to learning piano after years away from playing, as a break from work or as a pursuit that will keep their mind active going into their older years. At the piano, you can find a space where you are able to focus entirely on music, away from emails, deadlines, and schedules.…
Format of the AS91421 Exam and study checklist
The video below gives a basic overview of the format and types of questions you can expect in the NCEA L3 Harmonic and Tonal Conventions exam. Below the video, you can sign up to receive an email for a study checklist. Preparing for AS 91421? The video below explains the exam format, but if you…
Getting started on a composition
Getting started on a composition assignment is much easier if you’ve already got an idea that you want to write about. Having a reason to write a piece of music helps you set up the mood of your piece right from the start, ensures that you have something to communicate in your music and can…
Why you should work on your scales
Learning to play your scales and arpeggios really well will help you develop as a pianist and as a musician. When you play scales, you’re strengthening your fingers, the coordination between your hands and preparing yourself for scale passages which occur in a lot of music. You can also use your scale practice to…
How we’re using Noteflight
Noteflight is an online tool that you can use to write and playback music over the internet. It’s reasonably priced and is a great tool for music students. It’s possible for music teachers to set up a safe space on Noteflight where their students can share music and access online resources. This year, I’ve started…