What all musicians can learn from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra
The symphonic metal mashup of “Carol of the Bells” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” holds lessons that can elevate music of any genre. Read the post
music improvisation
Expand your musicianship and career by sight-reading music
The ability to see written music for the first time and play it on the spot is a superpower that will open creative and career possibilities. Here are some tips to expand your skills at sight-reading music. Read the post.
How to plan, perform, and rock your Zoom gigs
Live-streaming has opened new opportunities for many musicians. It has also created new categories of challenges. These prep and performance tips can make your Zoom gigs the best they can be. Read the post.
Playing live music at the polls
Around the country, indie musicians of all styles and genres are playing live music at the polls as people wait to vote. Here are some tips for bringing your music to the voters. Read the post.
Ramping up for the big gig
When you’re planning for a big gig, use these strategies to prepare and practice so you play, perform, stream, and record with success. Read the post.
Channeling emotions: how to play it when you’re not feeling it
Just as actors channel emotions and use what they are feeling to enhance and inform their acting choices, you can do the same to enhance your musical performances on stage and in the studio. Read the post.
Make the most of rehearsal time
There are lots of recipes for successful band rehearsals and these tips might help you refocus and prepare to rehearse with purpose. Read the post.
Playing at Carnegie Hall … with five days’ notice
When I had the opportunity to be playing at Carnegie Hall with the great Wouter Kellerman, I had to say yes. With the gig five days away, thoughtful, strategic practicing helped get the music where it needed to be in a short amount of time. Read the post.
Mirror, mirror: How watching yourself perform can elevate your music
Watching yourself in a mirror while you perform or practice can help you elevate your music and performance, so find opportunities to gaze while you play and learn from what you see. Read the post.
Studying song structure can help you learn new material quickly
Strategies that involve focused listening and practice are key to learning new material quickly, and looking closely at song structure can lessen the amount of time it takes you to get from first listen to a strong, quality performance. Read the post.
8 tips to help you learn new music … fast
If you’re in a situation where you have to learn lots of new music in a very short time, these tips can help you develop a strategy so you can tackle the task and perform with confidence. Read the post.
The Star-Spangled Banner: how to sing it right
A performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” can be a powerful musical experience when done right and a national embarrassment if things go wrong. Consider this advice if you’re ever called to perform it. Read the post.
More tips to make your unplugged gig a success
Playing an unplugged gig outdoors presents challenges if you need amplification – but there are ways to meet the challenges and put on a great show. Read More.
Intensify your musical arrangements and solos with call and response
Whatever your genre, your solos and musical arrangements can come to life in you incorporate call and response between instruments, vocalists, and any combination you can think of. Read More.
Transcribing solos can help you improvise
Transcribing solos that other musicians have played can be a challenge, as it requires significant music notation chops and a sharp ear. Like any musical skill, though, it can be learned, and is well worth the investment of time to make it happen. Read More.