ABC’s of Sheet Music

“Quality sheet music is important for any level of musician trying to add to their repertoire,” said Adam D’Arpino in his article Five Quick Tips for Choosing Music. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, sheet music helps to shape how you learn, perform and understand a piece.” WHY CHOOSE SHEET MUSIC It is a …

How to Choose a Musical Instrument

Choose wisely now and your child can be in a school band or orchestra next fall. Parents, especially those unfamiliar with musical instruments, commonly ask, “How do I and my child choose a musical instrument?” The answer is not a simple one. It involves many factors. Some homes have instruments that mom or dad played …

Wedding Music

Spring is definitely in the air and many couples are busy planning a June wedding. Choosing the invitations, making the guest list, selecting the cake and most importantly the bride’s gown, are all priorities, but one of the most important elements of a wedding is the music. How does one choose the music for a …

Practice, Practice… and More Practice

Practice Time: Drudgery or Enjoyment? You no doubt have heard the expression “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” the answer is: Practice! Practice! Practice! But that in itself is not good enough. Music practice sessions should be well planned and thought out. Most people, especially students, need to know how to plan their practice …

Celtic Music: Saint Patrick’s Day

Every year on March 17th many “Irish Eyes Are Smiling,” as people of Irish descent – and others who claim to be Irish—celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. It is a day to make merry with singing, dancing, drinking and, of course, eating the traditional feast of corned beef and cabbage. Saint Patrick’s Day Saint Patrick (circa …

La Musica de Mexico: The Mariachi Band

As the song title says, South of the Border (down Mexico way…) is where a style of music originated called Mariachi. It is generally a joyous, happy, very rhythmic music immediately recognized as the sound of the Mariachi Band. Origins Early Mexican musicians were somewhat like the wondering minstrels of Western Europe in the 12th …

Swing, Swing, Swing!

Big Band music at its best The ‘Big Band Era” music of the 1930’s and 40’s are some of the most memorable and recognizable songs ever written. Swing music, also known as swing jazz, developed in the early 1930’s, by 1935 was the hottest music in the United States. Origins Much of the jazz music …

‘Tis the Season

The Christmas season is a joyous time of year for many people around the world. Thoughts turn to Christmas trees, eggnog, gathering around a warm cozy fireplace, singing and playing holiday songs with family and friends. Santa Claus, reindeer, presents under the tree and sugar plum fairies are traditional images for young and old alike. …

Making a Living in the World of Music

“I am highly interested in music and it is my favorite subject in school. How can I make a living out of something I enjoy so much?” This question and others like it are asked by many young, aspiring musicians. There are many employment opportunities available to a college graduate with a degree in music. …