Should I Learn To Read Music?
The answer is…..yes….or no…..actually, it depends. The truth is some of our best known musicians and singers, including Pavarotti and Jimi Hendrix, did not read music. Did that hinder them in any way? Obviously not, but could they have been better at their craft if they learned to read and write music? Probably. The earliest…
Do Group Music Lessons Work?
Group music lessons are very popular these days, both for students (lessons cost less per hour) and for teachers and studios (they can make much more money per hour). The question is: How effective are they and how do they compare to private lessons? Let’s look at effectiveness – group lessons can be effective to…
Overcoming Shyness With Music
Shyness in children can be tough to overcome. One of the best ways to deal with shyness is to approach it head-on. However, this can be difficult. Music is a great way to combat shyness. Gaining a musical skill creates a sense of confidence, and this confidence can greatly impact your child’s interactions with others.…
Why Performing Is Important
One of the single most important things you can do for your musical growth is to perform what you have been working on in front of an audience. However, the very idea often fills the student with dread. The reason usually is too much pressure is put on the student and the performance itself. Having…
Beware of Casting Notices
We have had a number of students compete on television shows, and have gotten to know some of the people behind the scenes and how these shows really work. Very often local music studios, or teachers, will send out emails about auditions for The Voice, American Idol and America’s Got Talent. Usually the teacher will pitch this…
Why Singers Should Learn An Instrument, Part 2
In my first post on this subject, I discussed the musical benefits of playing an instrument. Here are some further benefits: You Alone If you can play an instrument, you will have an accompanist that will always be there for you – and that person is you. By playing guitar or piano, you will always…
Why Performing Is Important
You Should Be Performing! So many of us take music lessons, only to have the desire and fun of learning begin to fall away after a period of time. How can we avoid this drop in enthusiasm? One of the keys is to perform on a regular basis. Researchers have found being tested on a…
Why Singers Should Learn an Instrument, Part I
Why Singers Should Learn an Instrument, Part I I have dealt with singers who are completely committed to their craft, which is great, but they resist learning any instrument besides voice. What are they missing out on? A lot! Musicianship There are areas of musicianship best developed with an instrument. A piano or guitar will…
The Top Three Reasons Why You Should Sing
Singing is a skill that many people desire but relatively few learn to do well. There are a number of reasons why I believe everyone should learn to sing. Here are a few of my favorites: Goodbye Stress Recent scientific studies show that singing, and group singing in particular, lowers stress, relieves anxiety and boosts…
Songwriting Your Way to a Singing Career
The Secret To Singing Stardom If you asked a group of kids what their dream career would be, a singing star would likely be at the top of the list. It is a highly competitive industry and many don’t achieve the dream. But there is one skill that can help get you a record deal…