Author Archives: songbirdmusic

The Joy of Making Music

Why do we enjoy listening to the radio? Going to concerts? Singing traditional songs with family and friends? Dancing? Taking music lessons? Music appreciation, for many of us, feels like a very natural and integral part of life. It may not be something we think about very often. But sometimes, for example when we’re learningContinue reading “The Joy of Making Music”

Composition puzzle pieces

It is my humble opinion that composing is the best way to learn music theory. It makes you really think about when to use every musical element, and why. It also helps you to appreciate all the hard work and skill that composers put into creating the pieces we play! This is a fun activityContinue reading “Composition puzzle pieces”

Sight Reading Flash Cards

Creating my own flash cards has been in the works for a while, so I’m very excited about this post! I purchased these awesome flash cards from Full Voice Music a while ago and have found them to be a lot of fun for sight reading and composition practice. I wanted cards that would helpContinue reading “Sight Reading Flash Cards”

Performance Preparation

There are many ways to prepare for a performance. I’ve put together a list of some of my favourite tips that have worked for my students over the years. Being nervous before a performance is completely normal, and being well prepared is the best way to combat those nerves! Below is a free download ofContinue reading “Performance Preparation”

Slow Practicing

Fast practice, slow progress. Slow practice, fast progress. No practice, no progress: — Fay Adams Practice at the speed of no mistakes. – Liszt The experts have spoken! When you practice at a slow, comfortable pace, magic happens. Tricky parts become manageable and confidence is boosted. Sections that looked impossible become playable! Take a breath andContinue reading “Slow Practicing”

Musical New Years Goals

This week I’ll be encouraging my students to set some goals for the year. I’ve made up a worksheet to get them in thinking about what kinds of goals they’d like to set! The most important part will be to help them break their goals down into smaller steps if the goal is particularly challenging.Continue reading “Musical New Years Goals”