Learn Instrumental Music with Free Lessons & Tips

The piano is a unique instrument that can be classified as both a percussion and a string instrument. It falls under the category of chordophones (string instruments) because its sound is produced by strings. However, it also has characteristics of percussion instruments because the strings are struck by hammers when keys are pressed. Therefore, the piano holds a dual classification in the world of musical instruments. read less

The number of levels in piano education can vary depending on the method or curriculum used. However, there are some common structures: 1. **Graded Systems**: - The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) and similar organizations use a system of grades, typically from Grade 1 to Grade 8. - After Grade 8, there are diploma levels (e.g., DipABRSM, LRSM, FRSM). 2. **Level Systems**: - Some systems use levels (e.g., Level 1, Level 2, etc.), which might span from beginner to advanced. These can vary significantly but often range from around 10 to 12 levels. 3. **Books and Method Series**: - Popular piano methods for children, such as Alfred's, Bastien, and Suzuki, often break down into levels or books that progress from beginner to advanced stages. While these systems can have different structures, they typically cover a similar range from beginner to advanced proficiency. read less

Yes, it is possible to practice piano on a 61-key keyboard. While it doesn't have the full range of an 88-key piano, many pieces of music can still be played on a 61-key instrument, especially if they don't require the extended range of notes found on a full-sized piano. For beginners and those focusing on learning the basics of piano playing, such as scales, chords, and simple pieces, a 61-key keyboard can be quite sufficient. However, more advanced pieces, especially those that require the use of both very high and very low notes, may be challenging or impossible to play as intended on a 61-key instrument. In summary, a 61-key keyboard is adequate for practicing and learning piano, particularly for beginners and intermediate players. For advanced practice and performance of complex pieces, an 88-key piano is preferable. read less

Certain piano chords that sound good together often belong to the same key, creating harmonious progressions. Here are a few examples of chord progressions that are commonly found pleasing: 1. **I - V - vi - IV** (C - G - Am - F in the key of C major): - This is a very popular progression used in many pop songs. It creates a sense of movement and resolution. 2. **ii - V - I** (Dm - G - C in the key of C major): - This is a classic jazz progression, providing a strong sense of resolution from tension. 3. **I - IV - V** (C - F - G in the key of C major): - One of the most common progressions in Western music, providing a straightforward and satisfying sequence. 4. **vi - IV - I - V** (Am - F - C - G in the key of C major): - Often found in modern pop and rock music, this progression has a cyclical feel. 5. **I - vi - IV - V** (C - Am - F - G in the key of C major): - Another popular sequence, which offers a balance of major and minor chords, creating a rich and emotional sound. Experimenting with these progressions and altering the rhythm and tempo can lead to a variety of musical styles and moods. read less

1. So you've learned how to play the melody of your favorite song (or maybe you've even composed your own melody), but now you need chords to match it. Figure out what key you are playing in. ...
2. Find the 1-4-5-6 chords for the key you are in. ...
3. Build your chords around the melody note. ...
4. Make it your own!

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