How to Practice Chords Frozen Style: Sing Like Elsa, Just… Slower?

So you’ve decided you want to play the guitar or piano. Great choice! You’re already cooler than most people. Now, before you start dreaming of dueting with Adele or shredding like Eddie Van Halen, let’s start with the basics: How to practice chords. And by basics, I mean the backbone of every song you’ve ever loved. Even “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” Yep, that one too.

The Hilarious Truth About Chord Changes

I recently had the hilarious pleasure of accompanying a student on the iconic Frozen ballad. Now, as they tried to master their chord changes on the piano, I found myself holding some notes… rather longer than usual. Like, take-a-deep-breath-and-think-about-life long. “But hey, aren’t slow chord changes a disaster?” Nope! It’s all part of the learning curve, and guess what? It’s a lot funnier than you think!

Fun Fact: “The longer you hold a note while waiting for a chord change, the more philosophical you become. Trust me, I’ve pondered the meaning of life in between C and G7.”

Practicing Chords: Step by Step

1. Choose a Song You Love: I recommend “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” because who doesn’t love Frozen, right? Check out this fabulous chord chart to get started.
2. Go Slo-Mo: Here’s the thing. Slow is the new fast. Starting off at a slower pace helps muscle memory and ensures accuracy. And for those using the Chrome browser, there’s this magic tool, the Transpose extension, that lets you change the key, slow down, or speed up any YouTube video. It’s like having a superpower, but for music.
3. Repetition is Key: Practice doesn’t make perfect; perfect practice makes perfect. It’s like learning to tie your shoes or make a decent cup of coffee. Do it enough times, and it becomes second nature.

Sarcastic Tip: “When in doubt, just remember: the chords won’t change themselves. Unfortunately.”

To Sum It Up…

Learning chords can be challenging, but it’s also immensely rewarding. And the best part? When you finally get the hang of it, you can jam along with songs, make your own music, or just impress your friends with your newfound skills.

“Why rush when you can enjoy every melodious moment? Whether it’s a quick chord change or an extended dramatic pause – it’s all music to our ears!”

Interested in music lessons? Sign up here.

Check out other blogs to learn, to laugh, to enjoy 🙂.

WhenYour Piano Student Only Wants to Play Rush E (How to Play Rush E)

Oh, the joys of teaching piano! There you are, meticulously plotting out a well-thought-out curriculum for your students, covering everything from Bach to Beethoven. And then, in barges a kid with stars in their eyes, saying, “I wanna play Rush E!” Excuse me, what now?

Why Everyone Is Obsessed With Rush E

Before diving into the how, let’s tackle the why. Rush E is that lightning-fast track that’s taken the internet by storm. And by “storm,” I mean like how a toddler takes over a candy store. Fun fact: Did you know that Sheet Music Boss, a YouTube channel, originally introduced this piece as a joke? Jokes on us, because it blew up! And now, every other youngster wants to conquer it on the piano.

“Slow and Steady” Isn’t Just for Turtles

So, your student wants to master Rush E. What do you do? Panic? Consider a career change? Nope. Embrace the madness! The key to learning Rush E (or any song, really) is to take it slow. Ironic, considering the song’s tempo, right?

Start with small sections. Once those are nailed, piece them together. Before you know it, your student is playing Rush E, and you’re contemplating if you should add “Miracle Worker” to your resume.

Sarcastic sidenote: Oh, and remember, patience is a virtue! Especially when you’re on the 103rd replay of the same section.

Go Easy on Yourself (And Your Fingers!)

If you’re starting to think Rush E is the musical equivalent of climbing Mount Everest, don’t fret. There are easier versions and arrangements out there. Yes, believe it or not, some genius decided to make an already challenging piece even more challenging. But, for the rest of us mere mortals, the simpler arrangements will do just fine, thank you.

In Conclusion: To Rush E or Not To Rush E?

The next time a piano student waltzes in, wanting to play Rush E, embrace the challenge. And when they successfully play it? Give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done. And maybe, just maybe, consider taking on Flight of the Bumblebee next. Because, why not?

Sheet Music Links

Have fun playing Rush E with one of these arrangements

Easy Version  |   Intermediate Version   |    Advanced Version

ORIGINAL RUSH E VIDEO

Check out other blogs to learn, to laugh, to enjoy 🙂

Stop Practicing So Long! Or…How Not to Turn Your Practice Sessions into Marathons 

Did you know? According to a study at the XYZ University, most students believe that practicing longer will make them better. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t!

The Myth of the Long Practice Session

Hey there, superstar-in-the-making! I’ve heard a little rumor about you. Apparently, you think sitting at the piano for hours on end one of times every two weeks will make you the next Beethoven. Well, here’s a reality check: It won’t. Surprised? Don’t be. Here’s why.

Quality Over Quantity

Just like you wouldn’t eat all your meals for the week in one sitting (seriously, imagine the heartburn!), practicing for hours sporadically isn’t going to do you any favors. Daily practice, even if it’s short, helps reinforce your learning and keeps your skills sharp. Remember, it’s not about how long you practice, but how you practice.

Fun Fact: Your brain can only handle so much information at once. That’s why cramming for tests never works!

Consistency is Key 

Imagine going to the gym once every two weeks and trying to bench press 200 pounds. Not only will you probably not move that weight, but you might also pull something! Muscles, whet

her they’re in your arms or fingers, need consistent work to grow and strengthen.

Habits > Marathons

If you’re new to the world of music, or just new to the idea of daily practice, start with baby steps. Ten minutes a day. That’s it. Once that feels like a breeze, increase your time. The point is to form a habit. Before you know it, you’ll be practicing more without even realizing it!

Sarcasm Alert: If you still think one marathon session a week is enough, I’ve got a bridge to sell you!

Wrapping it Up

So, the next time you think about skipping your daily practice in favor of a two-hour session on the weekend, remember this: consistent, short practices are the secret sauce to becoming a musical genius. And if you need more tips on how to practice, book a lesson with me and I’ll answer all your questions. Or, for a deep dive into the science of practice, here’s an outbound link to a trusted music education site.

Remember, consistency is the secret ingredient in the recipe for success! So, get to that piano and start practicing (but not for too long, okay?).

Check out other blogs to learn, to laugh, to enjoy 🙂

Building an Iso Room for Pitch Michael Music Studio: A DIY Journey

When I decided to set up my first storefront lesson studio, I knew I had a challenge ahead of me. Nestled in a more compact space and being mindful of the surrounding neighbors, it became evident that creating an iso room for Pitch Michael Music Studio was essential. For those unfamiliar, an iso (isolation) room is designed to prevent the transfer of sound. Perfect for lessons and recording without disturbances!

Now, here’s the twist: I’m no handyman. The thought of building something, especially something as intricate as an iso room, was daunting. But with determination and a can-do attitude, I embarked on this DIY journey. With each nail hammered and every soundproof panel installed, my confidence grew. The end result? A room I built mostly by myself, which became a testament to what one can achieve with a bit of grit and perseverance.

The iso room at Pitch Michael Music Studio isn’t just any room. It’s where the magic happens. From voice to guitar and piano lessons, to trumpet and trombone sessions with Carl, our expert instructor, this space has seen it all. And not just for teaching – it’s also a recording haven. I’ve had the privilege to record not just myself but talented artists from LA and many of our budding students.

But it’s not all work and no play. Right outside the iso room, there’s a TV and a comfy couch. It’s a spot for kids to chill out, play some Nintendo while waiting for their lessons. Sometimes, you might even catch me indulging in a game or two!

In conclusion, the iso room at Pitch Michael Music Studio stands as a symbol of innovation and adaptability. Whether you’re here for lessons, recording, or just a round of Nintendo, know that a lot of love and effort went into creating this special space. If you’re ever in need of a lesson or recording studio, look no further. Our doors (and iso room) are always open

Check out other blogs to learn, to laugh, to enjoy 🙂