How to get on target for a music exam distinction: Part 1

Learning – 25/06/18

Music Exams

Most music exam candidates do not get a distinction, although most do pass. Gaining a distinction is not a matter of luck and it's not to do with which examiner you have - it's about knowing how to get good marks. Here are some tips for getting distinction marks in the pieces or songs, whichever examining board you use - ABRSM, Trinity or LCM. Get on target soon! more

How to get on target for a music exam distinction: Part 2

Learning – 25/06/18

Music Exams

The supporting tests in music exams (aural, scales, study, musical knowledge, improvisation) are given different weighting depending on which board you choose and the percentage you need to get a distinction varies too. Find out which board would suit you best and discover how to get distinction marks in these tests in your exam, whether it's with ABRSM, Trinity or LCM. more

Is it too late to master the piano?

Learning – 23/01/18

Is it too late for me, as an adult, to master the piano? How will I learn? What is the best way to begin? How long will it take? Is it worth the effort? These must be among the most frequently asked questions about learning to play the piano, or indeed any musical instrument. Here are some answers to consider. more

Easy-to-follow tips for guitar chord progressions: a beginner's guide

Learning – 19/01/18

So, you have your new guitar at last and you're wondering how to start. Maybe you know a few chords and you're wondering how to link them together in cool progressions like the ones you hear in the music you listen to. Here's your beginner's guide: an E-MusicMaestro guest blog, written by expert guitarist and teacher, Marc-Andre Seguin! more

How I learned to sight read!

Learning – 19/10/17

I have shared techniques for improving sight reading with you before but now, for the first time, I'm going to tell you the true story of how I became a good sight reader! more

5 Ways to Beat Performance Anxiety (For Teens)

Learning – 01/10/17

Teenage years can be difficult - there are lots of changes going on personally and the stress of the transition to adulthood is not an easy one. No wonder you can feel overwhelmed at times but these five, great ways of dealing with anxiety are relevant to everyone, not just to musicians. more

What I'm Really Thinking - The Adult Piano Student

Learning – 15/07/17

What I'm Really Thinking

The old saying, 'When the student is ready, the teacher appears,' turns out to be true for an adult returning to piano lessons after a gap of many years. This student is ready and he shares his hopes and dreams. more

Should I buy an acoustic piano or an electronic piano?

Learning – 09/05/17

Learning

What are the advantages and disadvantages of traditional and electronic pianos? more

Choosing and learning the trumpet

Learning – 15/04/17

Choosing a musical instrument is a very important occasion and making the right choice of first instrument is so important. Here are some guidelines on choosing a trumpet. more