Maria Jennifer's Blog

Music is one of the most influential forms of art for people. Music can entertain you when you are sad and make you smile. Music can also make you cry with emotion, and so on. Music is one of the ‘other forms’ of beautiful literature, which has tones. Music has a long history. The age of music is almost the same as that of humans.

History of Music Art

The music we can enjoy now certainly has a history and a long journey of its own development. Even now we can find various genres of art, which is why the understanding of music art will then be related to many things. Like instruments, artists, singing, songs, and so on. Music art that encompasses many components then has an important function in our daily lives.

The existence of music art has a long history and journey, even since the first human being appeared on Earth. This music art then developed rapidly until it became popular today. The following is the history of the development of music art from ancient times to the present:

1. Prehistoric Era

This history began with the existence of Homo sapiens around 180,000 to 100,000 years ago with the discovery of the oldest musical instrument, namely a flute made of bear bone with holes.

The instrument was then used to produce unique sounds and was used by humans at that time for various purposes. The flute musical instrument is over 40,000 years old.

2. Medieval Era

Around 476 to 1572 AD, music was widely used for the purposes of Christian religious events. Many new discoveries emerged, making music art also develop not only used for religious activities.

From 476 to 1572 AD, music was mainly for Christian religious events. It was a big part of church ceremonies, like Mass. Gregorian chant, with its simple melodies, was popular during this time. But as the Middle Ages went on, music changed. People started mixing different melodies, creating polyphony.

Guillaume de Machaut was a famous composer who made both religious and non-religious music. In the Renaissance period, from the 14th to the 17th century, music became even more diverse.

While still used in churches, composers like Palestrina also made music for non-religious purposes. So, from simple chants to complex compositions, music evolved a lot during this time, both for worship and artistic expression.

3. Renaissance Era

Around 1500 to 1600 AD, music art evolved into love and wedding music. In the Renaissance era, church music experienced a decline, but during this time, piano and single organ musical instruments were discovered. This era also saw the emergence of artists and music composers such as Leonin, Perotin, and Guillaume de Machaut.

See also : 19 Top Indie Folk Music Artists 2024

4. Baroque and Rococo Era

The Baroque and Rococo era occurred around 1600 to 1750 AD, where the use of musical ornaments or decorations increased.

New Music was then widely used simultaneously and spontaneously, and the use of Rococo music was regulated and recorded.

Johann Sebastian Bach, a creator of church sermon choral music and instrumental song composer, was one of the famous artists of this era.

5. Classical Era

From 1750 to 1820, it was the era of the glory of music art. This era was then called the classical era, where the dynamics of play became smoother and the tempo changes with accelerando became faster.

In addition, ritardando intonations also became softer, although ornamentation was limited during this era. Many famous composers emerged in this classical era such as Wolfgang, Joseph Haydn, Ludwig Van Beethoven, and Johan Christian Bach.

6. Romantic Era

Around 1810 to 1900, music art highly emphasized subjective feelings. In addition, music art was also very thick with elements of romance or feelings. That’s why in this romantic era, music used a lot of tempo and dynamics.

7. Modern Era

The modern era began in the twentieth century until now, where many platforms or media were discovered to listen to music. Music development in this modern era focuses more on sound, style, and rhythm.

Music art also underwent changes with the advancement of technology such as the invention of sound recorders and music editing tools, which gave rise to new genres in classical music today. That’s why now we can listen to various genres of music.

Beauty of Music

The beauty of music lies in the arrangement of orderly sounds or what can also be called melody. In addition, music is also a type of art that can create a sense of happiness for both its creator and listeners. The combination of various aspects can then be concluded as the beauty of music.

Aesthetic Value of Music

According to Herbert Read, an English art historian and poet, the aesthetic value of music can be seen from two perspectives.

These two perspectives are objective and subjective, here’s the explanation:

• The aesthetic value of music when viewed objectively is related to the composition and harmonization of a musical work. Objectively, aesthetic value is closely related to the elements of music art.
• The aesthetic value of music subjectively can be seen from how someone feels as a result of the beauty of a musical work.

Based on the above explanation, it can be concluded that the aesthetic value of a musical work is closely related to the creative process and imagination of a musician.

Functions of Music Art

In addition to being beautiful, music also has a variety of functions. In fact, the function of music itself is the beauty of music itself.

Entertainment Medium

Music certainly serves as entertainment that can bring happiness or provide a touch of beauty to the feelings of those who listen to it.

Therapeutic Medium

Music has been used as a therapeutic medium since the Second World War era when many people were depressed due to the harsh conditions of war at that time. Music then saved those who experienced trauma, mental disorders, and some paralysis of their body organs.

Commercial Medium

The high interest and attraction to music make this field a big commercial medium. The large number of music enthusiasts enables artists and musicians to earn income from their works. Starting from selling their music recordings or performing their music on concert stages.

Ceremony Medium

Music is widely used for various ceremonies, whether they are cultural, religious, ritualistic, or official/formal ceremonies. Music in these ceremonies can enhance the enjoyment of the event.

Means of Self-Expression

Music can be used as a form of self-expression because it can serve as the right medium to express the feelings or ideas of its creator. It’s no wonder that many musicians create music based on their life experiences, which they then express through enjoyable melodies.

What Makes Music Beautiful?

The elements of beauty in a piece of music are diverse, including emotional expression, delivery, rhythm, melody, and the instruments played, all of which can touch the hearts of listeners.

The aesthetic value of a piece of music is certainly influenced by the composition of each element within it. Below are the elements that form the aesthetic value of music.

Melodic Element

Melody is a sequence of notes or sounds produced by vocals (human voice) or instruments.

Melody can also be interpreted as a series of notes perceived based on differences in pitch (high-low) or the rise and fall of pitch. Melody can be a complete expression or just a fragment of an expression.

Harmonic Element

The harmonic element is related to the harmony between sounds. Technically, this element includes the role, arrangement, and relationship of a combination of sounds as a whole.

In the harmonic element, there are elements of intervals and chords. Intervals are arrangements of notes that sound simultaneously, while chords accompany the melody of a song.

Tempo and Dynamics

Tempo and dynamics are two elements closely related to the speed at which a sound is played. These two elements can contribute to building the aesthetic value of a piece of music.

Tempo refers to the speed in the rhythm of a song, while dynamics relate to the softness or loudness of the song and its changes.

Language Style

Language style is also an element that can attract in a piece of music. The language style in a piece of music can be seen from the lyrics.

The lyrics in a piece of music play an important role in conveying the content or meaning of a song. Therefore, language style can be an aesthetic element of music.

Discovering The Beauty of Music Trough Harmony of Tones

In a world filled with diversity in art, music remains a universal language that stirs emotions and touches the heart. One key element that makes music so captivating is harmony of tones.

Harmony of tones is not just a series of notes coming together. It is a harmonious blend of melody, rhythm, and tones that form a beautiful unity.

Harmony of tones is also created through the combination of various musical instruments, from the elegant piano to the warm-sounding guitar. That is the beauty of music. Moreover, each musical instrument has its own characteristic harmony of tones. This undoubtedly brings a highly diverse range of tonal blends with each characteristic harmony.

Every melody has its own story. Harmony of tones is not merely a technical element in music; it is the soul that animates every note and melody. The beauty created by music is a marvel in this world that continues to inspire and move the hearts of every listener.

For years, Indie Folk has been a genre of music that wasn’t particularly popular. However, in the 2000s, this music genre gradually caught the attention of music enthusiasts. With guitar melodies and dramatic lyrics, songs from this folk subgenre have garnered their own increasing fanbase. Do you know the artists in the world of Indie Folk music?

Indie Folk Artists 2024 and Their Works

Folk or traditional music is known for its simplicity. Indie Folk is a subgenre of this music that typically features acoustic guitar music with poignant lyrics. The following artists have contributed to enlivening and revitalizing interest in the Indie Folk genre:

1. Cathartic Fall

Cathartic Fall is the stage name of folk musician Jeoff Harris. Apart from creating music, he also produces his own songs. Jeoff, hailing from Los Angeles, made his debut in 2020 with the single “With Eyes Open.” He often shares moments of playing piano and other instruments through his YouTube channel. Dramatic songs with heart-touching lyrics include popular tracks like “Angle,” “Ocean,” and “Waiting in The Dark.”

See also : 10 Best Jazz Fusion Albums of All Time

2. Ben Howard

Ben Howard is the stage name of Indie Folk musician Bejamin John Howard. He began his music career in 2008 with the debut album “Games in The Dark EP.” Among his accolades is the 2013 Brit Award for British Male Solo Artist. Howard’s music and lyrics are soothing, perfect for melancholic moments. Recommended tracks include “Bones,” “Gracious,” “Old Pine,” and “Keep Your Head Up.”

3. Jose Gonzales

Looking for songs to accompany your solitary moments? Add some Folk tunes from Jose Gonzales to your playlist. This Swedish-Argentinian singer has been active in the music scene since 2003. His work “Step Out” became the soundtrack for the film “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.” “Stay Alive,” “Step Out,” and “Cycling Trivialities” are some tracks you can add to your playlist.

4. The Tallest Man on Earth

The Tallest Man on Earth is the stage name of Swedish musician Kristian Mattson. An Indie Folk singer who has been active since 2006 in the music industry. Originally a vocalist in a band, he decided to pursue a solo career in Indie Folk. He has garnered praise, with many likening his music to that of the legendary Bob Dylan. Aside from being an Indie singer, Mattson also produces his own songs. He records at home and has created several notable works, including “The Dreamer,” “The Gardner,” and “Love is All.”

5. James Vincent McMorrow

An Irish musician who began his career as a singer in 2010. Two years later, he won the European Border Breaker Award. This award recognizes musicians who have gained listeners from abroad through hits or international albums. Some of McMorrow’s recommended songs for your relaxation include “Ghost,” “If I Had a Boat,” and “We Don’t Eat Higher Love.”

6. Damien Rice

A solo musician who has been active in the music scene since 2001. “The Blower’s Daughter” is one of Damien Rice’s singles that made it to the Top 40 Chart. Notable songs from this artist include “Volcano,” “9 Crimes,” and “The Blower’s Daughter.”

7. The Kings of Convenience

A Norwegian folk duo that released their first album in 2001. Their song “Cayman Island” was a hit and remains enjoyable to listen to. Other songs that can be added to your playlist include “Homesick,” “Toxic Girl,” “Mrs. Cold,” “Winning a Battle, Losing the War,” and “I’d Rather Dance With You.”

See also : How to Learn Classical Piano for Beginners

8. Novo Amor

Fans of indie folk music are probably familiar with the name Novo Amor. This talented musician hails from England. Amor can play various musical instruments, including piano, percussion, drums, guitar, banjo, and bass. Novo Amor is actually a stage name; the real name of this musician is Ali Lacey. He made his debut in the music world in 2014 and has released four albums. Hit songs from this artist include “Keep Me,” “Anchor,” “Ontario,” “State Lines,” and “Repeat Until Death.”

9. Vancouver Sleeping Clinic

When making his debut in the music world, Tim Bettinson chose the stage name Vancouver Sleeping Clinic. A musical clinic that accompanies you before sleep with soothing songs. Tim Bettinson has released four albums until 2023. The listeners of his songs on Spotify are quite substantial, reaching three million listeners every month. Some of his most-played songs include “Someone To Stay,” “Middle of Nowhere,” “As It Was,” “Somebody Else,” and “Riptide.”

10. Fleet Foxes

Want to enjoy Indie Folk music for relaxation or even as bedtime companions? Try listening to songs from Fleet Foxes. This band was formed in 2006 in Seattle. They gained recognition after releasing their EP titled “Sun Giant.” Their second album was more popular than their self-titled debut. In their second album, Fleet Foxes received critical acclaim for their vocal harmonies and delicate lyrics. Some Fleet Foxes songs include “Mykonos,” “White Winter Hymnal,” and “Blue Ridge Mountains.”

11. Bon Iver

Ever heard of Bon Iver? Yes, this musician often collaborates with other singers, including Taylor Swift. With a very distinctive vocal style, Bon Iver is perfectly suited for singing Folk songs. One of Bon Iver’s hit singles is “Skinny Love,” which was covered by Ed Sheeran and Birdy. Bon Iver also received prestigious awards, including the Grammy in 2012. They won the Best New Artist and Best Alternative Music Album awards. Some songs by Bon Iver that are perfect for accompanying melancholic moments or rainy days include “Skinny Love,” “Blindsided,” “Re-Stack,” and “I Can’t Make You Love Me.”

12. Iron and Wine

Iron and Wine has released several works, including the song “Flightless Bird American Mouth.” This song became one of the soundtracks for the famous film “Twilight.” Behind their rugged appearance, the vocalist Sam Beam’s voice is very gentle. Listening to their songs can create a soothing atmosphere. Some Iron and Wine songs include “Nakes as We Came,” “Passing Afternoon,” and of course, “Flightless Bird American Mouth,” which is a must-listen.

13. The Head and The Heart

Indie Folk musicians maintain their music with traditional values and simplicity. This is also what The Head and The Heart, an indie folk band from Seattle, does. You can try some of their songs like “Rivers and Roads,” “Lost in My Mind,” and “Another Story.”

14. The Paper Kites

Formed in 2010, The Paper Kites offer many comfortable folk music tunes. They have released 2 albums and 2 mini albums with some of their best songs including “Silent Cause,” “Halcyon,” and “Turn Within Me Turn Without Me.”

15. CHPTRS

Formed by Josh Auer and Jerad Atherton in 2017, this duo group carries the cinematic indie genre with millions of subscribers on their YouTube channel. They have produced at least seven albums with several hit songs. On music streaming platforms like Spotify, their most-listened-to songs include “Last Chance,” “Let the New Begin,” “Hold It All Together,” and “Obvious.”

16. Sleeping at Last

A rather intriguing stage name, Ryan O’Neal along with Chad O’Neal and Dan Perdua formed this music band in 2003. They have released dozens of albums and some of their songs have achieved good chart positions. Their songs have been used in TV series and movies. Recommended songs that can be added to your playlist include “You Are Enough,” “Turning Page,” “Saturn,” “Already Gone,” and “Saturn.”

17. Hollow Coves

Hollow Coves is the stage name of an Australian duo group. Comprising Matt Carins and Ryan Handerson, they present music with soothing harmonies. Since their formation in 2013, Hollow Coves has garnered a sizable loyal audience on Spotify. In 2019, they successfully released their first album. Some popular songs that have been streamed millions of times on music platforms include “Interlude,” “Coastline,” “Blessing,” and “The Woods.”

18. Lord Huron

Lord Huron is an American indie rock band based in Los Angeles. The band, consisting of Ben Schneider, Miguel Briseno, Mark Barry, and Tom Renaud, often presents music from genres like folk rock, pop, country, and western. Some of their notable songs include “The Night We Met,” “I Lied,” “When The Night is Over,” and “Love Like Ghosts.”

19. Gregory Alan Isakov

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, this musician has built a loyal fan base who listen to his songs faithfully. Gregory Alan Isakov can play various musical instruments including acoustic guitar, electric guitar, mandolin, and others. These instruments are often played in his melancholic and beautiful songs.

Besides being skilled at playing musical instruments, Gregory is adept at expressing emotions through his songs. His unique blend of traditional folk music and modern rock, plus his distinctive vocals, energizes fans to listen to his music. Some of his most popular songs include “Big Black Car,” “Amsterdam,” “San Luis,” and “Southern Star.”

Do any of the songs from the singers and musicians above become your favorites? By combining acoustic guitar melodies and contemporary instruments, Indie Folk songs have their own dedicated fan base.

Indie Folk music is special because it speaks from the heart. Each song, with its simple guitar tunes and heartfelt lyrics, feels like a genuine conversation. It’s like sitting with a friend, sharing stories and emotions without holding back.

People love Indie Folk because it’s real and relatable. It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly day, comforting and familiar. And as Indie Folk artists keep making new music, fans eagerly listen, ready for another journey of emotions and stories. In a world full of distractions, Indie Folk music is like a warm hug, reminding us of the power of simple, honest connections.

Jazz fusion, also known as jazz rock, reached the peak of its popularity around the 1970s. Countless albums were released and became famous during that period. The sub-genre of jazz music still remains an important part of the music scene today.

Big names like Miles Davis may be the most familiar in the jazz fusion music industry. However, there are many works of music that can be considered legendary and among the best in history.

We have compiled a list of the most phenomenal and best jazz fusion albums of all time. Here is a lineup of albums that make the list:

1. Duster by the Gary Burton Quartet

Jazz fusion, a subgenre of jazz music widely known as a blend of jazz and other genres such as rock, R&B, and funk, produced one of the best jazz fusion albums, Duster by the Gary Burton Quartet.

This might be one of the earliest fusion albums dating back to 1967. Featuring vibraphonist Gary Burton showcasing a blend of Jazz and Progressive Rock with blues-tinged guitar by Larry Coryell. Duster became one of Burton’s frequently played albums throughout the 1970s. Burton and Coryell, along with bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Roy Hannes, delivered a captivating performance.

Burton managed to captivate listeners, although tracks from other artists emerged during that time, such as General Mojo’s Well Laid Plan and Portsmouth Harbour. Burton showcased sophisticated harmony in tracks like “Sing Me Softly of The Blues,” providing a balance to virtuoso performances. Overall, the Gary Burton Quartet can be seen as exemplary in this sub-genre of jazz music.

2. Out Of Sight and Sound by The Free Spirits

In 1966, Larry Coryell formed a band called The Free Spirits in New York City. They explored new music and performed with their band in various clubs around the city. The only album they produced was Out Of Sight and Sound.

Out of Sight and Sound, with its iconic album cover, brought forth a lot of music with mesmerizing guitar riffs, influenced by various genres beyond jazz. The cool opening track with meaningful lyrics showcased in their jazz fusion piece titled “Don’t Look Now (But Your Head Is Turned Around),” featuring repeated guitar riffs competing with saxophone wails.

The music is appealing to jazz-rock or jazz-fusion enthusiasts. Larry Coryell, the guitarist of The Free Spirits, often cited as the key architect of their jazz fusion sound. While this album may lean more towards rock than jazz at first glance, the clash of music genres brings forth truly innovative music.

Larry Coryell crafted this music by incorporating elements from his favorite rock bands like Miles and Rolling Stone. In this album, their music often features intricate chord progressions.

See also : How to Learn Classical Piano for Beginners

3. In A Silent Way/Bitches Brew by Miles Davis (1969/1970)

In the world of jazz fusion music, Miles Davis is considered one of the most important figures. Inspired by previous big names like James Brown and Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis showcased his musical talent.

Miles Davis successfully produced two jazz fusion albums, In a Silent Way and Bitches Brew. These albums were released consecutively, showcasing a convergence of his music with that of other musicians.

In a Silent Way became the first jazz fusion album successfully released in 1969, marking a shining period for Miles Davis. Apart from producing albums, he also solidified his name with his band.

Miles Davis collaborated with other great musicians like Herbie Hancock, John McLaughlin, and Joe Zawinul. Davis showcased his aura by continuously delivering creative musical works, capturing the attention of music enthusiasts.

Then, in 1970, he released another jazz fusion album named Bitches Brew. Featuring many musicians on this album such as Chick Corea, Joe Zawinul, and John McLaughlin, Davis continued to experiment with jazz fusion music through guitar arrangements with heavy-rock influences.

This was the key to the success of Miles Davis’ albums. Bitches Brew offered a different atmosphere from the more peaceful In a Silent Way.

4. Black Byrd by Donald Byrd (1973)

The name Donald Byrd is quite well-known, especially around the 1950s and 1960s. Donald Byrd was a hard bop player who became a leader for Blue Note Record. Later, in the late 1960s, he transitioned to R&B, funk, and African music.

Donald Byrd collaborated with producers Fonse Mizell and Larry to produce Black Byrd. One of the iconic jazz fusion albums released in 1973. It was a Blue Note Record recording that sold quite well in the market.

Throughout the 1970s, Black Byrd continued to explore different kinds of music. This included forming a music group called The Blackbyrds. The band was quite successful, with its members being students from Howard University.

Another album by Byrd that actually made it to the list of the best jazz fusion albums is Places and Spaces in 1976 and Blue Note Caricatures in 1977. His musical work in 1977 was his last performance.

5. Head Hunters by Herbie Hancock (1973)

Like Miles Davis and Joe Zawinul, Herbie Hancock came from the same band background. They joined a band known as Davis’s Second Great Quintet, formed and popular in 1963.

In addition to Hancock’s great works recorded with Davis’s band, Hancock also took time to record solo albums that successfully made it onto the Blue Note record label. The 1960s were a prolific era for Hancock, producing numerous recordings, both as a lead and as a sideman.

In 1973, Hancock formed Headhunters, which turned out to be his greatest success, selling over a million copies. The first Head Hunters recording combined various musical elements, ranging from R&B to funk, resulting in new sounds. Headhunters focused more on a smoother sound, quite different from Hancock’s previous recordings. Surprisingly, this work managed to attract a wider audience.

See also : 6 Indie Rock Bands to Perform in 2024

6. Mahavishnu Orchestra: Bird of Fire by John McLaughlin (1973)

Apart from Miles Davis, John McLaughlin became one of the most well-known figures in the world of jazz fusion music. McLaughlin, an English guitarist and composer, also an alumnus of the same band as Miles Davis.

Through collaboration with Davis, McLaughlin showcased some of their best albums such as Bitches Brew and previously In a Silent Way. However, in the 1970s, McLaughlin left the band.

Not stopping there, he then formed the Mahavishnu Orchestra, which had a significant influence on the music industry.

Recordings with Davis heavily influenced McLaughlin’s music with elements of heavy rock. Different from the Mahavishnu Orchestra, he combined jazz and rock with influences from East and Southeast Asian music.

Through Mahavishnu Orchestra, McLaughlin managed to showcase extraordinary music with quite complex techniques. With different scales from Western music, Mahavishnu Orchestra provided a more dynamic musical performance, combining Jazz Fusion with smoother musical styles.

7. Spectrum by Billy Cobham (1973)

Billy Cobham is known as the most prolific jazz fusion drummer of all time. His work includes famous jazz fusion songs produced with Miles Davis and Mahavishnu Orchestra.

Cobham had perfect abilities and techniques to execute more aggressive jazz fusion music. Combining complex jazz rhythms with more aggressive rock and roll music, Spectrum became one of the most influential jazz fusion albums.

This marked Cobham’s debut with inspirations and experiences gained while working with Miles Davis and Mahavishnu Orchestra. The album features a contrasting blend of beautiful jazz music with spirited and fiery rock music. Jazz improvisation on this album remains conventional, keeping it engaging.

8. Native Dancer by Wayne Shorter (1974)

Wayne Shorter was a member of the Second Great Quintet formed by Miles Davis. He was the most influential figure in Jazz Fusion music. Wayne Shorter undoubtedly had musical experiences with Herbie Hancock and other members of Miles Davis’ band.

Wayne Shorter recorded several albums that received acclaim. One of his most famous albums is Native Dancer, released in 1974. It provides refreshing music for jazz fusion enthusiasts.

The combination of samba music with funk results in enjoyable music with shades of beach atmosphere and sunset. This album has also been cited by several famous artists like Esperanza Spalding.

9. Weather Report: Heavy Weather by Joe Zawinul (1977)

Joe Zawinul is known as an Austrian pianist and composer who played the saxophone in Cannonball Adderley and the trumpet in Miles Davis’ group. Along with Wayne Shorter, he formed Weather Report in 1970.

Joe Zawinul is a pioneer in electronic piano music. He is also known for using synthesizers in jazz music, which is beloved by many. Joe Zawinul was enthusiastic about combining various original music from around the world. However, funk and R&B are inseparable parts of his music.

One of Joe Zawinul’s successes is the album Heavy Weather. It contains hits like “Birdland,” which received critical acclaim. This recording also won prestigious awards like Downbeat’s Album of The Year.

10. Return To Forever: Romantic Warrior by Chick Corea (1977)

Chick Corea was a member of Miles Davis’ band. He was known as one of the most popular jazz pianists of his time. Chick Corea left Davis and then formed a jazz group with Dave Holland.

Return to Forever: Romantic Warrior is Chick Corea’s sixth album. This album was recorded in a remote rural area in Colorado. It became one of the popular albums for Chick Corea.

These are the best jazz fusion albums of all time that have been released and are still great to listen to today. Do you agree to give them a listen?

Classical piano is an intriguing genre, full of passion and beauty. However, this genre might feel daunting especially for beginners or self-taught individuals. But fear not, you can play this music!

Yes, all you need to start classical piano is attitude, technique, practice, articulation, and inspiration. Here are some important tips and guidelines for you.

Tips and Techniques for Playing Classical Piano

Learning scales, chords, vibrato, and melody is indeed necessary for understanding classical music. However, the technique of playing classical piano is equally important to upgrade your classical playing.

1. Pay Attention to Body Posture

Body posture is a crucial component, no matter what style of music you play. However, it becomes especially important in classical piano playing because the position of your hands will affect the sound produced.

Practicing with improper body posture can also be painful! Yes, this will be very noticeable if you plan to practice seriously for long periods. Hand injuries can occur due to incorrect practice and improper playing techniques.

If you feel pain and discomfort in your hands or other parts of your body while practicing, stop playing the piano immediately and don’t force yourself to practice all day long. You may need to consult a doctor for treatment of such injuries.

So, what is the proper body posture for playing the piano? Starting from the hands, observe how you touch the piano keys. If your wrist is lower than the position of your fingers, you need to correct that posture.

Don’t let your hands hang down; try to lift your wrists slightly. Make sure your shoulders are not stiff or tense. Practice to be more relaxed and comfortable with the correct posture.

See also : 6 Indie Rock Bands to Perform in 2024

2. Practice Your Technique

Training your technical skills cannot be replaced; this is important for you to learn. It’s not just about pressing piano keys, but also about your style in playing them. Most pianists are seen playing with curved fingers and looking at the keys.

The key is that your hands should always be in touch with the keys. Allow your fingers to reach all the keys to be played. If you want to practice your finger playing, works like Minuet in G Minor by JS Bach are great for you. This piece doesn’t involve many jumps so fingers can keep touching the keys.

3. Improve Your Reading Skills

For both beginner players and self-taught players, their playing often gets stuck just focusing on the keys or keyboard. However, your reading skills also need to be trained.

This is important so that you can play classical piano more interestingly and dynamically. One of the pieces that can be used to practice your classical piano skills is Erude No. 11 Pour Les Arpeges Composes in Ab by Claude Debussy.

This piece of music can help you train better sight-reading skills. This will encourage your hands to follow what your eyes see over time.

4. Train Coordination

Hand movements and sight need to be well coordinated to play classical piano more interestingly. Start by training both hands, each trained independently to be more flexible and less rigid.

If you feel you have mastered enough and want to get a little more complex challenge, Nocturne in C# minor by Frederic Chopin is an interesting choice. This piece features some techniques that can train your piano skills, such as vibrato and double rhythm.

Progress from these exercises may seem slow. You need to practice continuously with improvement every time. Train your hands to be flexible and able to play at the desired speed.

Once you’re more comfortable, coordinate your right hand and left hand to play together. Remember, your fingers should seem to hop from one key to another without staying in the air for too long.

5. Do the Work!

Your theory will be useless if not practiced directly in exercises. Understanding scales, arpeggios, chords, and others is indeed necessary. Playing techniques from books or other tutors are also needed.

However, this theory might only be for piano skills, whereas you also need confidence. Well, that can be achieved through practice and practice. Playing classical piano with confidence will give you a better performance.

In general, the recommended classical piano practice is 30 minutes every day. You might be able to practice more, and that’s great! Remember, to practice every day and as consistently as possible even if it’s just a short time each day.

See also : History of Electronic Dance Music (EDM)

6. Take Time to Get Inspired

You may have felt that practicing classical piano is complicated and difficult. If that feeling comes, it’s a sign you need to seek inspiration and be more explorative. Look for beautiful and easy classical piano pieces to help you learn.

Music for Classical Piano Practice

Most people would agree that the key to success in classical piano playing is consistent and relentless practice. Consistent and regular practice can naturally improve your musical abilities. Here are some pieces of music that can be used for practice.

1. Minuet in F Major by Leopold Mozart

The composer of this music is unknown, but it is likely Leopold Mozart. Minuet in F comes from the works of various composers dubbed as Nannerl’s Notebook.

The piece was composed by Nannerl’s father (Maria Anna Mozart) and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who was a master pianist. Minuet in F is a great piece for beginner classical piano players.

You’ll find Minuet in F full of beginner-friendly music. The piece features an elegant and minimalist style typical of the classical period.

2. Minuet in G Major and Minuet in G Minor by Petzold

The composer of this music is Christian Petzold, often associated with Johann Sebastian Bach. Minuet in G Major might be synonymous with children practicing piano. However, pianists like Lang Lang also enjoy this simple minuet.

Minuet in G Major is quite charming and expressive with just one sharp. If you’re afraid of black keys, don’t worry when practicing this minuet. It’s suitable for beginners who want to learn by crossing under and playing with scales.

Moreover, this piece is also good for getting used to changing hand positions. It trains finger skills in playing the keyboard.

3. Prelude in C Major by JS Bach

JS Bach or Johann Sebastian Bach is the composer of this piece. It features dense notes that may seem intimidating at first glance. However, upon closer observation, this music is actually very easy for practice.

It’s one of the often recommended pieces for easy classical piano. The basic part of this piece is to practice C major chords. The writing of the piece is also easier to predict so you won’t have too much difficulty in reading the play.

Beginner players can practice looking ahead and preparing for the next chord for smoother playing. Keep practicing to improve your skills in playing these chords.

4. La Candeur

The composer of this piece is Johann Friedrich Franz Burgmuller. The piece is created and included in the collection of 25 easy and progressive etudes. Etude is a French word meaning “study”.

These pieces are designed with several important techniques to train beginner pianists. Starting from scale exercises, chords, jumps, and others. These etudes will be very helpful although many pianists find them boring.

5. Sonatina 1 in C Major, Ops 36

Muzio Clementi is the composer of this friendly beginner classical piano piece. It’s a fun and easily accessible piece. However, it sounds great when you play it.

With three movements and several modulations in different keys, Sonatina 1 sounds comfortable for indoor concerts. If you can master playing this Sonatina, you can practice other Clementi Sonatas that use C, G, and F major keys.

6. Solfeggietto in C Minor by CPE

CPE Bach or Carl Phillip Emanuel Bach is a pianist as well as the son of Johann Sebastian Bach. This piece sounds amazing and many people have made cover versions with electric guitar music.

Although it sounds cool, you or beginner players don’t need to worry because this music can be used for practice. The minor key in this piece gives an epic and dramatic atmosphere. Suitable for training your skills and speed in playing classical piano.

7. Waltz in A Minor, B.150

From composer Frederic Chopin, Waltz in A Minor is an easy-to-play classical piano piece. Using the A minor key, Waltz creates a majestic and elegant classical work. A simple yet not at all sounding like a beginner’s play.

You will encounter cool triplets and quintuplets sequences in this piece. If studied further, you can break down these sequences which turn out to be easy triad arpeggios for beginners.

8. Canon in D by Pachelbel

This piece by composer Johann Pachelbel can be used for classical piano practice. Canon in D is quite popular and has a significant impact on the history of classical music. This piece of music is a favorite for wedding parties.

Practice with Canon in D and see the progress of your chord playing on the classical piano. If listened to for a longer time, it may sound like in the song “Don’t Look Bach In Anger” by Oasis or even like “Basketcase” by Green Day.

9. Gymnopedie No. 1 by Satie

This piece by a composer named Erik Satie is among the easy classical piano pieces for practice. A minimalist yet very beautiful piece at the same time. Gymnopedie has its own vibe even though the song is slow.

The music flow is quite steady and may provide a different challenge for beginner players. With the left hand playing with quite large jumps.

So, do you have enough enthusiasm to start or continue practicing classical piano? With consistent practice, you can become a successful pianist in this classical music industry.