Learning to play an instrument decreases THE RISK OF AGE-RELATED MENTAL DECLINE as well as hearing loss, according to a number of studies. In fact, many people into their 50's and 60's report positive changes on both their mental and physical states, as well as their overall well-being. There are many misconceptions about LEA... Read More »
British artist, Luke Jerram has taken the globe by storm with his 'Play Me, I'm Yours' project. Over 1,300 piano's have been set up in cities across the world, inviting musicians to play them. The idea, was initially set up to encourage new musicians to unleash their hidden musical talents.
The project launched in 2008, with a singular pi... Read More »
The world of music isn't all pianos, violins, guitars and clarinets. There are plenty of wonderful, wacky and obscure instruments, each with their own fascinating sounds. We've compiled a list of some of our favourites.
Djembe
Not the most radical of starting-off points, but one that illustrates music's depth and variety of forms. Most contemporary Western music is derived from a mix of European and African diaspora styles - specifically the marriage of the European classica... Read More »
The guitar is the instrument of modern music, the spirit animal of youth. It is synonymous with cool independence and fresh creativity. Whether it be a battered acoustic or a thrash metal axe, it is imbued with the same core romanticism: revolution, newness and change.
Because of this, playing the guitar is a deeply rewarding activity. It has social benefits that no other instrument can provide, and an immediacy of use that isn't possible with practically every other common instrument... Read More »
This guest post was written by Dan, pianist and keyboard expert!
Teaching kids piano can be a great opportunity to work from home, especially if you have good piano training and experience. With the present state of the economy, more people are looking to use their skills as a way to earn additional income. One way that can be done is by taking a passion for the piano and turning it into a home based business.
What you are going to find with this approach,... Read More »
Who'd have thought that the small and humble ukulele could become so hugely popular?
In the last couple of years, the ukulele has shot to fame as the instrument of choice for adults and children alike. You'll be familiar with this tiny yet wonderful instrument without even knowing it - if you've heard Hawaiian music, or the hit songs of singer songwriter Jack Johnson, then you've heard the ukulele.
The uke, as it's commonly and affectionately known amongst its fan, is like a m... Read More »
If you're thinking of introducing your child to a wind instrument, or indeed taking up lessons yourself, then you've got a lot of fun ahead of you.
Wind instruments are typically split into two types: brass and woodwind instruments. Brass instruments include the trombone, tuba and ... Read More »
Those of us who teach piano will often be asked by parents at what age their children should start taking lessons. I tend to think that age seven is about right - partly because younger children's hands are very tiny and a child could struggle to reach all the notes! However, it's undeniable that many of the world's great pianists started honing their craft at an even earlier age. Mozart was famo... Read More »