To improve as a musician, you’ve got to measure and track your progress
Achieving vertical growth on your instrument requires a means of measuring and tracking progress in your music practice. Read the post.
musicians
“Southern Cross” — From unreleased leftover to enduring classic
Here’s a fascinating look at how Stephen Stills took an unreleased leftover and turned it into the enduring classic, “Southern Cross.” Read the post.
How to produce with soft synths
Software synthesizers can open up huge musical possibilities when you’re producing music. Here’s how to get started. Read the post.
Mystery chords: “A Hard Day’s Night” and “London Calling”
Ever sit down to learn a song and find that no matter what chord you play, it’s just not right? We investigate two mystery chords in two classic songs. Read the post.
How to alter pre-made loops to get a customized sound
Pre-made loops are great tools for creative inspiration while you’re recording. A few simple techniques can help make them sound less like stock sounds and more like you. Read the post.
When the bassline makes the song
There are lots of examples where the bassline is the prominent part of the song. This driving blues track from Gov’t Mule rages atop a super-dense bassline that propels the song. Read the post.
How to practice your instrument to get results
Virtuoso guitarist and teacher Jamie Andreas delivers a technique that will help you improve your instrument skills so you can break through barriers and play like a pro. Read the post.
Dave Smith: The Godfather of MIDI
Music technologist, inventor, and synthesizer creator Dave Smith died on May 31, 2022. His innovations will continue to shape music for years to come. Read the post.
Find new ways to stretch your musical limits and develop a creative routine
Choosing to turn your creativity into a regular routine can help you stretch your limits, sharpen your skills, and open the door for new career opportunities. Read the post.
Musicians who died in 2021
In addition to all the heartache last year wrought, the list of notable musicians and producers who died in 2021 is extensive, with notable innovators, groundbreakers, and icons joining their departed brethren at the eternal post-gig party. Read the post
How to choose the right music instrument for you
In a music instrument marketplace flooded with high-quality options, determine your needs, do your research, and trust your gut. Read the post
The transformative echoes of an unplanned jam
How collaborating with the found noise of New York City inspired fresh hope. (Or, how an unplanned music jam saved my summer.) Read the post
Practice music like an Olympic athlete
Whatever your musical style or genre, establishing an effective, consistent practice routine will set you up for musical success. Here are some tips to get you started. Read the post.
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.
Three approaches to live looping
From tight grooves to swirls of sound, live looping can open up huge opportunities for musical creativity. These three approaches will get you started. Read the post.