Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1809–1847) stands as one of the 19th century’s most gifted and enigmatic composers. Possessed of preternatural talent, rivaled only by Mozart, Mendelssohn's relatively short life was marked by incredible artistic production and profound influence on the European musical landscape.

The guitar is one of the most popular instruments in the world, versatile enough for almost any genre of music. But "guitar" is a broad term, encompassing a family of instruments that look and sound quite different. For new learners, picking the right type of guitar can significantly impact their learning experience and enjoyment. Let's explore the main types of guitars, their characteristics, and who they're best suited for.

For the advanced piano student, Domenico Scarlatti isn't just a historical figure; he's a gateway to a world of unparalleled keyboard brilliance, technical demands, and surprisingly modern musical ideas. While often overshadowed by his contemporaries Bach and Handel, Scarlatti's over 550 keyboard sonatas (many discovered posthumously) offer a unique and rewarding challenge.

Robert Schumann's Album for the Young, Op. 68, is a treasure trove of short, evocative piano pieces designed for his children and young students. A popular character piece for Grade 2 pianists is "Soldier's March" ("Soldatenmarsch"), a perfect example of a character piece from the Romantic era.

Robert Schumann's "Soldier's March" from his Album for the Young, Op. 68, is one of the most famous pieces you'll ever play on the piano. But who was the man who wrote this energetic, determined music?

The harmonic series is a fundamental concept that every trumpet player should understand to improve their sound and technique. It shapes how notes are produced and how players can control pitch and tone. This post breaks down the harmonic series on a trumpet and offers practical tips for students to use this knowledge in their practice and performance.

Playing the trumpet or cornet with control over dynamics is a key skill for any student musician. Being able to switch between loud (forte) and soft (piano) crotchets smoothly adds expression and depth to your performance. This post will guide you through practical steps to master these dynamic contrasts, focusing on breath control, embouchure, and articulation techniques.

Playing minims on the trumpet or cornet with control over volume is a skill that every student musician should develop. Whether you want to deliver a powerful, loud note or a gentle, soft sound, mastering the minim requires attention to breath control, embouchure, and articulation. This post will guide you through practical steps to play minims both forte (loud) and piano (quiet) with confidence and clarity.

Playing semibreves on the trumpet or cornet can feel challenging for many students. These long notes require control, breath support, and steady airflow to maintain a clear, consistent sound. Whether you are just starting or looking to improve your technique, this guide will walk you through practical steps to master semibreves on your brass instrument.

Music has an extraordinary power to transcend time, culture, and personal experience, offering solace, reflection, and connection.

Public Domain image: Danish and German pianist and composer Ludvig Schytte (1848-1909) Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:LudvigSchytte.jpg Ludvig Schytte (April 28, 1848 – November 10, 1909) is a name that deserves to be brought into the light of Danish music history. Although his name may not resonate as well as those of Gade or Carl Nielsen, Schytte was an exceptionally productive and influential composer, pianist, and educator whose works still hold great val

When a report card comes home, the first instinct for many parents and students is to scan for the familiar letters: A, B, C. But what does a 'B' in music theory actually mean?

Welcome to a journey into sound. This guide is designed to help you explore how three brilliant composers—Bach, Mozart, and Janáček—used the exact same key, C major, to create three completely different worlds of feeling and story.

Listening to more advanced music in C major, even when you're learning simpler songs, scales, and basic chords, helps you in many ways: