Play Piano By Ear vs Reading Music

Posted by Yoke Wong on 10/28/2011 to Learn To Play Piano

Playing by ear is the ability to hear a piece of music and play it without looking at sheet music. Reading music, of course, is the ability to “read” musical notes, rhythm and dynamics on sheet music, and play a piece accurately. These abilities may seem incongruent, but they actually require some of the same skills. Both have potential benefits for the pianist, and both should be cultivated.

Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel

Posted by Yoke Wong on 10/25/2011 to Classical Music

Few melodies are as instantly recognized as Canon in D, by baroque composer, Johann Pachelbel. The famous cannon has been immortalized in movies, such as Father of the Bride, and adapted by modern musicians, including the Beatles. It is a favorite piece for weddings and classical music collections.

Who Wrote Happy Birthday to You?

Posted by Yoke Wong on 10/23/2011 to Learn To Play Piano

Arguably the most oft-sung tune in the world, “Happy Birthday to You” began as a simple song for school children. Penned in 1893 by sisters Mildred and Patty Hill, the song was originally called “Good Morning to All,” and was meant as a greeting from teacher to students. The original words were

7 Piano Tips For Beginners

Posted by Yoke Wong on 10/19/2011 to Learn To Play Piano

You’ve researched and interviewed several piano teachers, asked for references, and found an ideal teacher-student match. Or you’ve purchased your piano DVD lessons and materials and made room in your schedule for lessons. Now it’s time to start. Most beginning piano students feel excited, but slightly nervous about starting piano lessons. Your first lessons will likely be simple and fun. How quickly you progress depends in large part on your focus, dedication and resourcefulness. Below are 7 tips to help you get off to a good start.

5 Easy Ways To Play The Piano

Posted by PianoMother on 10/18/2011 to Learn To Play Piano

Adult learners rarely have the time to practice for hours or attend weekly private lessons, but if you’re motivated, you can learn to play the piano quickly. Here’s how:

Roger Williams & Piano Improvising Techniques

Posted by Yoke Wong on 10/11/2011 to Piano Improvisation

One of my favorite pianists, Roger Williams, passed away this past weekend at age 87. I was fortunate enough to have attended one of his live performances at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, in 2007. Even in his 80s Roger still managed to put together a stunning piano performance showcasing his great improvising skills and styles at that Christmas concert.

Modern Day's Beethoven - Steve Jobs

Posted by Yoke Wong on 10/6/2011 to Inspirational Stories

I turned on my USA Today’s app on my iPhone as usual last night. Then, I heard the news: One of the founders of Apple, Steve Jobs, passed away.

Steve Jobs was the modern day’s Beethoven in terms of influence. The world would be a different world without Beethoven’s music. It’s rare to meet someone who hasn’t heard of “Fur Elise” or “Moonlight Sonata.”

How to Make Piano Melodies Sound Better

Posted by Yoke Wong on 10/4/2011 to Piano Improvisation

Playing a single melody note can sound a bit boring. So, what are some of the ways to make the melody note sounds more interesting and exciting? Why not consider playing piano chords notes that belong to the left-hand chords?

Knowing your piano chords will help you know what harmony notes to add to the single melody note. For example if you’re playing the basic melody lines of “Ode to Joy” in the key of C. You know you can harmonize the melody lines with the C chord, and the C chord contains of C, E and G. If you add any notes that belong to the C chord into the melody lines, you get that richer sound.