Piano Key2

Can you talk to people without first memorizing what to say? Probably you can. Can you create melodies and nice licks to chords on the spot. Many pianists find this harder. Let’s try out a few ways to improve your improvisations!

Put something in to get something out

Piano improvisation is a form of composing. In other words you are creating music.

In order to improvise in an intelligent manner and not only play random notes you have to listen to improvised music and practise on your piano in a manner that will help you create music when you improvise.

(more…)

So, you’re a fan of the piano. You like the way it looks and sounds but you’re too afraid to approach the task of learning how to play it.

You’re not alone! Literally millions of people would love to learn this instrument but don’t because they’re intimidated by the learning curve.

But fear no more! Your learning curve just got a lot shorter thanks to the Open Position Chord! This versatile chord structure allows the beginning piano student to sound like a pro faster than any other method I know of! Why? Because it allows you to play a modern sounding chord with both hands right away.

(more…)

Most students new to piano playing really want to know what to do with the left hand. They think the left hand holds the secret to great improvisations and music. While it’s true that the left hand has usually been the captain of the piano ship when it comes to setting arrangements, the right can also join in.

Look, the right hand is where most of us create our melodies. It’s considered easier than the workhorse part the left has to do with creating arpeggios, ostinatos and the like. But, we can also use the right hand to create arpeggios and ostinato patterns.

(more…)

A great way to explore chords and at the same time learn to use them is to learn them together in usable guitar progressions like II-V-I. Let’s concentrate on the key of C!

What is a II-V-I progression?

Is is a chord progression with three chords built on the roots of the second, fifth and first note of a key.

The three roman numerals correspond to the digits 2, 5 and 1. In it’s most basic form the numbers indicate the root of a triad. For example, the roman number I in C-major means a triad built from the note C. This triad consists of the notes C, E and G.

(more…)

In this free beginner piano lesson, learn the difference between Major and Minor chords and how to play them quickly and easily!

When you listen to popular piano music, what creates the tone or the atmosphere of the song? Why are some songs bright and cheerful, such as the Beatles’ ‘The Yellow Submarine’ or ‘When I’m Sixty Four’? And why are other songs filled with sadness and pathos, such as the Beatles’ ‘Yesterday’ or ‘The Fool on the Hill’?

Much of the difference is due to the common use of Major chords in the cheerful songs, and Minor chords in the sad songs.

(more…)