How to start learning music
Check out the resource:
Best music sheet subscription sites (check the best music sheet subscription site) for the best music score subscription memberships for professionals musicians
Beginner's Guide to Playing Music: Starting Your Musical Journey
Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful world of music! Whether you're picking up an instrument for the first time or rekindling a long-lost passion, this guide will help you navigate the early stages of your musical journey. From choosing an instrument to reading sheet music and tabs, and overcoming moments of demotivation, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!
Choosing Your Instrument
1. Find Your Sound
The first step in your musical journey is choosing an instrument. Think about the kind of music you love. Do you see yourself strumming a guitar, tickling the ivories on a piano, or perhaps rocking out on a drum set? Visit a music store and try out different instruments to see what feels right.
2. Consider Your Lifestyle
Some instruments are more portable than others. If you're always on the go, a guitar or a flute might be more convenient than a piano. Additionally, think about the space you have at home. A drum set requires more room and soundproofing compared to a violin.
3. Budget Wisely
Instruments can range from very affordable to quite expensive. As a beginner, you don't need the most high-end instrument, but investing in a decent-quality one can make your learning experience more enjoyable. Look for used instruments or rental options if you're on a tight budget.
Getting Started: The Basics
1. Learn the Parts of Your Instrument
Before you start playing, familiarize yourself with the parts of your instrument. Knowing the terminology will help you follow lessons and tutorials more easily. For example, on a guitar, learn about the frets, strings, and tuning pegs. On a piano, understand the layout of the keys and the function of the pedals.
2. Proper Posture and Handling
Good posture is crucial for playing any instrument. It helps prevent injury and makes playing easier. For example, if you're learning the piano, sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor and your hands relaxed. If you're playing the guitar, sit or stand comfortably with the guitar close to your body.
3. Tuning Your Instrument
A well-tuned instrument sounds better and makes learning more enjoyable. Learn how to tune your instrument or use a tuning app or electronic tuner. Consistently playing in tune helps train your ear to recognize correct pitches.
Reading Sheet Music
1. Understanding the Staff
Sheet music is written on a staff, which consists of five lines and four spaces. Each line and space represents a different musical note. Notes placed higher on the staff have a higher pitch, while notes placed lower have a lower pitch.
2. The Clefs
The two most common clefs are the treble clef and the bass clef. The treble clef is used for higher-pitched instruments like the violin and flute, while the bass clef is used for lower-pitched instruments like the cello and bass guitar. Each clef assigns specific notes to the lines and spaces of the staff.
3. Notes and Rhythms
Notes have different shapes to indicate their duration. A whole note lasts for four beats, a half note lasts for two beats, a quarter note lasts for one beat, and so on. Rhythms are essential in music, so practice clapping and counting out different note values.
4. Time Signatures and Key Signatures
The time signature appears at the beginning of a piece of music and tells you how many beats are in each measure and what kind of note gets the beat. The key signature tells you which notes are sharp or flat throughout the piece. Understanding these will help you play music accurately.
5. Practice Reading
Start with simple pieces of music and practice reading the notes and rhythms. Gradually, you'll become more comfortable and confident. Use beginner music books or online resources to find sheet music at your level.
Reading Tabs (for Guitar and Bass Players)
1. What Are Tabs?
Tabs, short for tablature, are a simplified way of writing music for stringed instruments. They show you where to place your fingers on the frets rather than which notes to play. Tabs are especially popular for guitar and bass.
2. Understanding Tab Notation
Tab notation consists of six lines, each representing a string on the guitar. The numbers on the lines indicate which fret to press down. For example, a "0" means you play the open string, while a "3" means you press down the third fret.
3. Reading Tabs
Tabs are read from left to right, just like standard notation. They often include other symbols, such as "h" for hammer-ons, "p" for pull-offs, and "/" for slides. Familiarize yourself with these symbols to play more advanced pieces.
4. Practice with Simple Songs
Start with easy songs that you enjoy. Many popular songs are available in tab format, making it fun and accessible for beginners. Gradually work your way up to more complex pieces as you gain confidence.
Keeping the Momentum: Overcoming Demotivation
1. Set Realistic Goals
Setting achievable goals is key to staying motivated. Break down your practice sessions into manageable chunks. For example, aim to learn a new chord or play a simple melody each week. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
2. Practice Regularly
Consistency is crucial in learning an instrument. Try to practice a little every day rather than having long sessions sporadically. Even 15-20 minutes daily can make a big difference over time.
3. Find a Practice Routine
Create a practice routine that works for you. Start with warm-up exercises to get your fingers or voice ready. Then, move on to scales, pieces you're working on, and finally, some fun improvisation or playing along with your favorite songs.
4. Play What You Love
Choosing music that you enjoy keeps you engaged and excited to practice. If you're a fan of rock, learn some classic rock songs. If you love classical music, explore beginner pieces by composers like Bach or Mozart.
5. Join a Community
Playing music with others can be incredibly motivating. Join a local band, orchestra, or online music group. Sharing your progress and learning from others can provide inspiration and keep you accountable.
6. Learn from Mistakes
Mistakes are a natural part of learning. Instead of getting discouraged, view them as opportunities to improve. Break down difficult passages and practice them slowly until you get them right.
7. Take Breaks
If you feel frustrated or stuck, take a break. Sometimes, stepping away for a short time can give you a fresh perspective and renewed energy. Engage in other activities you enjoy and come back to your instrument later.
8. Seek Feedback
Don't be afraid to ask for feedback from teachers, friends, or fellow musicians. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and give you new strategies to overcome challenges.
Additional Tips and Resources
1. Online Tutorials and Courses
The internet is a treasure trove of music resources. Websites like YouTube, Coursera, and Udemy offer free and paid courses on various instruments. These can provide valuable instruction and inspiration.
2. Music Apps
There are many apps designed to help you learn music. Apps like Yousician, Simply Piano, and GuitarTuna offer interactive lessons and practice tools. These can be a fun way to supplement your learning.
3. Keep a Practice Journal
Track your progress by keeping a practice journal. Write down what you practiced, what you struggled with, and what you achieved. This can help you see your improvement over time and stay motivated.
4. Attend Live Performances
Watching live performances can be incredibly inspiring. Attend concerts, recitals, or local gigs to see musicians in action. Observing different styles and techniques can broaden your musical horizons.
5. Stay Patient and Persistent
Learning an instrument is a journey that takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and stay persistent. Progress might be slow at times, but every bit of practice brings you closer to your musical goals.
Conclusion
Embarking on your musical journey is an exciting adventure filled with challenges and rewards. Remember, the key to success is consistent practice, a positive mindset, and a passion for music. By following this guide, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and skilled musician. Happy playing!
WHAT ARE MUSIC SHEETS?
The Evolution of Music Sheets: A Journey Through History
Music sheets, also known as sheet music, are the written representation of music. They serve as a universal language that allows musicians to convey their compositions across time and space. Understanding their history and how to read them is crucial for any aspiring musician. This article will take you on a journey through the history of music sheets, how to read them, and their important evolutions over the centuries.
The Origins of Music Notation
Ancient Notation Systems
The earliest forms of music notation can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In Mesopotamia, around 2000 BCE, the earliest known musical notation was discovered on a cuneiform tablet. These tablets contained instructions for performing music but lacked the detailed notation seen in later systems.
Greek Notation
Ancient Greeks developed a more sophisticated system of notation around 500 BCE. They used letters of the alphabet to represent different pitches and placed these letters above the lyrics of their songs. This notation was primarily used for vocal music and was not as precise as modern systems, but it laid the groundwork for future developments.
Medieval Neumes
During the Medieval period (500-1400 CE), Western music notation began to take shape. The system of neumes was developed to indicate pitch and melodic contour. Neumes were small graphical symbols placed above the text of a chant. They provided a rough idea of the melody but did not specify exact pitches or rhythms.
Guidonian Hand
In the 11th century, Guido d'Arezzo, an Italian monk, introduced the Guidonian hand, a mnemonic device to teach sight-singing. He also developed the four-line staff, which significantly improved the accuracy of pitch notation. This innovation marked a major step towards the modern staff notation system.
The Development of Modern Notation
The Introduction of the Five-Line Staff
The five-line staff, which is the foundation of modern music notation, was developed in the 13th century. This system allowed for more precise notation of pitches. The lines and spaces of the staff represent different musical notes, making it easier for musicians to read and perform music accurately.
Mensural Notation
During the Renaissance period (1400-1600 CE), mensural notation emerged. This system introduced the concept of note duration, allowing composers to notate rhythm more accurately. Notes were given different shapes to indicate their length, a practice that continues in modern notation.
Baroque and Classical Periods
The Baroque (1600-1750 CE) and Classical (1750-1820 CE) periods saw further refinements in music notation. The use of dynamic markings, articulations, and tempo indications became more common, allowing composers to convey more detailed performance instructions. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century also made sheet music more widely available.
The Romantic Era and Beyond
The Romantic period (1820-1900 CE) brought about even more expressive capabilities in music notation. Composers like Beethoven and Wagner pushed the boundaries of what could be notated, using a wider range of dynamics, articulations, and tempo changes. In the 20th and 21st centuries, contemporary composers have continued to innovate, experimenting with graphic notation and extended techniques.
How to Read Sheet Music
Reading sheet music is an essential skill for any musician. It allows you to interpret and perform music as the composer intended. Here’s a step-by-step guide to understanding the basics of reading sheet music.
The Staff
The staff is the foundation of music notation. It consists of five horizontal lines and four spaces. Each line and space represents a different pitch.
Clefs
Clefs are symbols placed at the beginning of the staff to indicate the pitch range. The most common clefs are the treble clef and the bass clef.
Treble Clef: Used for higher-pitched instruments and voices. The symbol looks like a stylized "G" and wraps around the second line of the staff, indicating that this line is G above middle C.
Bass Clef: Used for lower-pitched instruments and voices. The symbol looks like a stylized "F" and places two dots around the fourth line, indicating that this line is F below middle C.
Notes and Rests
Notes and rests are the basic symbols used to represent sound and silence in music. Each note and rest has a specific duration.
Whole Note: A hollow oval note head with no stem. It lasts for four beats in common time.
Half Note: A hollow oval note head with a stem. It lasts for two beats.
Quarter Note: A filled-in oval note head with a stem. It lasts for one beat.
Eighth Note: A filled-in oval note head with a stem and a single flag. It lasts for half a beat.
Sixteenth Note: Similar to an eighth note but with two flags. It lasts for a quarter of a beat.
Rests correspond to notes in duration but represent silence.
Whole Rest: A small rectangle hanging from the second line of the staff. It lasts for four beats.
Half Rest: A small rectangle sitting on the third line of the staff. It lasts for two beats.
Quarter Rest: A squiggly symbol. It lasts for one beat.
Eighth Rest: A small hook. It lasts for half a beat.
Sixteenth Rest: A small hook with two branches. It lasts for a quarter of a beat.
Time Signatures
The time signature appears at the beginning of a piece of music and indicates the meter. It consists of two numbers, one above the other.
Top Number: Indicates the number of beats in each measure.
Bottom Number: Indicates the note value that receives one beat.
Common time signatures include 4/4 (four beats per measure, quarter note gets the beat), 3/4 (three beats per measure, quarter note gets the beat), and 6/8 (six beats per measure, eighth note gets the beat).
Key Signatures
The key signature appears at the beginning of a piece of music, after the clef, and indicates which notes are to be played sharp or flat throughout the piece. This helps to establish the key of the music.
Dynamics and Articulations
Dynamics indicate the volume of the music, ranging from very soft to very loud.
pp (pianissimo): Very soft
p (piano): Soft
mp (mezzo-piano): Moderately soft
mf (mezzo-forte): Moderately loud
f (forte): Loud
ff (fortissimo): Very loud
Articulations provide instructions on how to play individual notes.
Staccato: A dot above or below a note, indicating it should be played short and detached.
Legato: A curved line connecting notes, indicating they should be played smoothly and connected.
Accent: A > symbol above or below a note, indicating it should be played with emphasis.
Practice Reading
To become proficient at reading sheet music, practice regularly. Start with simple pieces and gradually move on to more complex music. Use beginner music books or online resources to find appropriate sheet music for your skill level.
Important Evolutions in Music Notation
Renaissance Innovations
During the Renaissance, music notation saw significant advancements. The development of mensural notation allowed composers to notate rhythm more accurately. This period also saw the introduction of accidentals (sharp, flat, and natural signs) to indicate pitches outside the key signature.
Baroque Ornamentation
In the Baroque period, composers began to include detailed ornamentation in their music. Trills, mordents, and grace notes were notated to guide performers in adding expressive embellishments to the music.
Classical Period Dynamics
The Classical period brought a greater emphasis on dynamics and phrasing. Composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven used dynamic markings (such as crescendos and diminuendos) to create contrast and drama in their music.
Romantic Expressiveness
The Romantic period saw an explosion of expressive possibilities in music notation. Composers like Chopin and Liszt pushed the boundaries of what could be notated, using a wider range of dynamics, articulations, and tempo changes to convey deep emotion.
20th Century Innovations
In the 20th century, composers continued to innovate with notation. Graphic notation, which uses visual symbols outside traditional notation, became popular in avant-garde music. This allowed for greater experimentation and creativity in composition.
Digital Age
The advent of digital technology has revolutionized music notation. Software programs like Finale and Sibelius have made it easier for composers to create and share sheet music. Digital sheet music can be easily edited, transposed, and distributed online, making music more accessible to a global audience.
Contemporary Trends
Today, music notation continues to evolve. Composers are experimenting with new ways of notating music to capture the nuances of modern performance practices. Extended techniques, which involve unconventional ways of playing instruments, are being incorporated into notation systems.
Conclusion
Music sheets have a rich history that spans thousands of years, evolving from ancient notation systems to the sophisticated digital tools we use today. Understanding how to read sheet music is essential for any musician, as it allows you to interpret and perform music accurately. By studying the history of music notation and practicing regularly, you can unlock the full potential of your musical abilities and contribute to the ongoing evolution of this universal language.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VIOLIN CLEF AND BASS CLEF IN MUSIC NOTATION SCORES
The treble and bass clefs are symbols used in sheet music to indicate the pitch range of the notes written on the staff. Each clef assigns specific pitches to the lines and spaces of the staff, which helps musicians read and play music accurately. Here's a detailed explanation of the differences between the two:
Treble Clef
Symbol:
The treble clef is also known as the G clef because it curls around the second line of the staff, which represents the note G above middle C.
Pitch Range:
The treble clef is used for higher-pitched instruments and voices. It covers the higher range of the musical spectrum.
Common Instruments:
Instruments that commonly use the treble clef include the violin, flute, clarinet, trumpet, and the right hand of the piano.
Lines and Spaces:
The lines of the treble clef staff, from bottom to top, represent the notes E, G, B, D, and F.
The spaces of the treble clef staff, from bottom to top, represent the notes F, A, C, and E.
Bass Clef
Symbol:
The bass clef is also known as the F clef because it places a dot on the fourth line of the staff, which represents the note F below middle C. The two dots of the clef surround this line.
Pitch Range:
The bass clef is used for lower-pitched instruments and voices. It covers the lower range of the musical spectrum.
Common Instruments:
Instruments that commonly use the bass clef include the cello, double bass, bassoon, trombone, tuba, and the left hand of the piano.
Lines and Spaces:
The lines of the bass clef staff, from bottom to top, represent the notes G, B, D, F, and A.
The spaces of the bass clef staff, from bottom to top, represent the notes A, C, E, and G.
Summary of Differences
Symbol and Name:
Treble Clef: G clef, curls around the G line.
Bass Clef: F clef, dots surround the F line.
Pitch Range:
Treble Clef: Higher-pitched notes.
Bass Clef: Lower-pitched notes.
Common Instruments:
Treble Clef: Violin, flute, clarinet, trumpet, right hand of the piano, etc.
Bass Clef: Cello, double bass, bassoon, trombone, left hand of the piano, etc.
Lines and Spaces:
Treble Clef Lines: E, G, B, D, F (Every Good Boy Does Fine).
Treble Clef Spaces: F, A, C, E (FACE).
Bass Clef Lines: G, B, D, F, A (Good Boys Do Fine Always).
Bass Clef Spaces: A, C, E, G (All Cows Eat Grass).
Understanding these differences is crucial for reading and interpreting sheet music correctly, as it allows musicians to play notes in the correct pitch range for their instrument or voice.
The History of Guitar Tabs: A Comprehensive Overview
Guitar tablature, commonly known as guitar tabs, is a form of musical notation that indicates instrument fingering rather than musical pitches. Tabs are widely used by guitarists, especially in genres like rock, blues, and folk music. The history of guitar tabs is rich and varied, spanning from ancient stringed instruments to modern digital formats. This article explores the evolution of guitar tabs, their advantages, and their impact on the world of music.
Early Origins of Tablature
Ancient and Medieval Roots
The concept of tablature can be traced back to ancient times, with early forms of stringed instrument notation appearing in various cultures.
Ancient Greece and Rome: Some of the earliest examples of string instrument notation can be found in ancient Greek and Roman cultures. These notations were rudimentary and primarily served as mnemonic devices for musicians.
Medieval Europe: The medieval period saw the development of more structured forms of tablature. The earliest known examples of tablature date back to the 14th century, primarily for the lute, a precursor to the modern guitar.
Lute Tablature
Lute tablature, which emerged during the Renaissance period, is considered one of the earliest and most sophisticated forms of tablature.
French Tablature: French lute tablature used letters (a, b, c, etc.) to represent the frets on the lute's fingerboard, with the lines of the staff representing the strings.
Italian and Spanish Tablature: These systems used numbers instead of letters to indicate fret positions, with a similar staff representation for the strings.
Baroque and Renaissance Lute Music
During the Baroque and Renaissance periods, lute tablature became increasingly sophisticated. Composers like John Dowland and Silvius Leopold Weiss used intricate tablature systems to notate their music. These systems allowed for detailed representation of finger placement and string plucking techniques, setting the stage for modern guitar tablature.
Evolution into Modern Guitar Tablature
The Transition from Lute to Guitar
As the guitar evolved from its lute predecessor, so too did the system of tablature. The transition from lute tablature to guitar tablature occurred gradually over several centuries.
17th and 18th Centuries: The guitar began to emerge as a popular instrument in Europe. Tablature systems for the guitar started to appear, influenced by existing lute tablature.
19th Century: The development of the modern six-string guitar led to the standardization of guitar tablature. Publications like Fernando Sor's "Method for the Spanish Guitar" included early examples of guitar tabs.
The Rise of Popular Music
The 20th century saw an explosion in the popularity of the guitar, particularly with the rise of jazz, blues, and rock music. Guitar tablature became an essential tool for musicians in these genres.
Early 1900s: Jazz and blues musicians used informal tablature systems to share their music. These systems were often handwritten and passed down through oral tradition.
1950s and 1960s: The advent of rock and roll brought the guitar to the forefront of popular music. Musicians like Chuck Berry and The Beatles popularized the use of guitar tabs to learn and share music.
Modern Guitar Tablature
The modern guitar tablature system, as we know it today, began to take shape in the latter half of the 20th century.
Printed Guitar Tabs: Guitar magazines and instructional books began to publish guitar tabs, making them widely accessible to aspiring musicians. Publications like "Guitar World" and "Total Guitar" featured detailed tabs for popular songs.
Digital Age: The advent of the internet revolutionized the way guitar tabs were created and shared. Websites like Ultimate Guitar and Songsterr provided vast libraries of user-submitted tabs, making it easier than ever for guitarists to learn their favorite songs.
How to Read Guitar Tabs
Reading guitar tabs is relatively straightforward, especially compared to traditional sheet music. Here’s a basic guide to understanding guitar tabs:
The Layout
Guitar tabs consist of six horizontal lines, each representing a string on the guitar. The top line corresponds to the high E string (the thinnest string), and the bottom line corresponds to the low E string (the thickest string).
Numbers and Symbols
Numbers: Numbers placed on the lines indicate which fret to press on that string. For example, a "3" on the top line means to press the third fret on the high E string.
Zero (0): A "0" indicates an open string, which means the string should be played without pressing any frets.
Chords: Multiple numbers stacked vertically indicate that these notes should be played simultaneously, forming a chord.
Special Techniques: Various symbols are used to indicate special techniques:
Hammer-ons (h): e.g., 5h7 means to play the 5th fret, then hammer onto the 7th fret.
Pull-offs (p): e.g., 7p5 means to play the 7th fret, then pull off to the 5th fret.
Slides (/ or ): e.g., 5/7 means to slide from the 5th fret to the 7th fret.
Bends (b): e.g., 7b9 means to bend the 7th fret note up to the pitch of the 9th fret.
Vibrato (~): A wavy line indicates vibrato, a slight variation in pitch.
Rhythm and Timing
While traditional guitar tabs primarily focus on finger placement, many modern tabs also include rhythmic notation. This can be indicated above the tab lines using standard rhythmic symbols or by spacing the numbers to reflect timing.
Advantages of Guitar Tabs
Guitar tabs offer several advantages, particularly for self-taught musicians and those who prefer playing by ear:
Accessibility
Simplicity: Tabs are easier to read than traditional sheet music, especially for beginners who may not have a background in music theory.
Visual Representation: Tabs provide a visual representation of the guitar's fingerboard, making it intuitive for guitarists to locate notes and chords.
Versatility
Genres: Tabs are widely used in various genres, including rock, blues, folk, and metal, making them versatile for learning different styles of music.
Customization: Digital tabs can be easily edited and customized, allowing musicians to adapt them to their playing style and preferences.
Community and Sharing
Online Resources: The internet has created a vast community of guitarists who share tabs for virtually every song imaginable. Websites like Ultimate Guitar and Songsterr offer extensive libraries of user-submitted tabs.
Collaborative Learning: Tabs facilitate collaborative learning, allowing musicians to share their interpretations and techniques with others.
Criticisms and Limitations
Despite their advantages, guitar tabs also have some limitations:
Lack of Rhythmic Information
Traditional guitar tabs often lack detailed rhythmic notation, making it difficult to understand the timing and duration of notes. This can be particularly challenging for complex pieces or for musicians who are not familiar with the song being played.
Inconsistent Quality
The quality of user-submitted tabs can vary significantly. Some tabs may be inaccurate or incomplete, leading to potential frustration for learners.
Limited Expressive Detail
Tabs primarily focus on finger placement and lack the expressive detail found in traditional sheet music, such as dynamics, phrasing, and articulation. This can limit a musician's ability to fully interpret and perform a piece as intended by the composer.
The Future of Guitar Tabs
As technology continues to advance, the future of guitar tabs looks promising. Here are some potential developments:
Enhanced Digital Tabs
Interactive Tabs: Apps and websites are increasingly offering interactive tabs that allow users to play along with the music, adjust the tempo, and loop sections for practice.
Audio and Video Integration: Modern tabs often include audio and video examples, providing a richer learning experience. This integration helps learners understand the rhythm, timing, and nuances of a piece.
Educational Tools
Tablature Software: Programs like Guitar Pro and TuxGuitar offer powerful tools for creating, editing, and practicing tabs. These programs often include features like playback, tempo adjustment, and notation for multiple instruments.
Online Courses: Many online music education platforms offer courses specifically focused on learning to read and play from tabs, helping guitarists of all levels improve their skills.
Community and Collaboration
Crowdsourced Tabs: As the online guitar community continues to grow, the quality and accuracy of user-submitted tabs are likely to improve. Collaborative platforms allow musicians to contribute, review, and refine tabs, ensuring higher quality resources.
Virtual Jamming: Advances in technology enable guitarists to collaborate and jam with others in real-time, regardless of geographic location. This fosters a sense of community and allows for shared learning experiences.
Conclusion
Guitar tablature has come a long way from its ancient and medieval origins. It has evolved into a powerful tool that makes learning and playing the guitar accessible to millions of musicians worldwide. Despite its limitations, the simplicity and versatility of guitar tabs have made them an indispensable part of modern music education and performance. As technology continues to advance, the future of guitar tabs looks bright, promising even more innovative ways for guitarists to learn, share, and create music.
Quotes from Famous Musicians, Composers, Pianists, and Jazz Players
Musicians
Rock and Pop Musicians
John Lennon
"Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans."
"Music is everybody's possession. It's only publishers who think that people own it."
"We live in a world where we have to hide to make love, while violence is practiced in broad daylight."
Freddie Mercury
"I won’t be a rock star. I will be a legend."
"I always knew I was a star, and now the rest of the world seems to agree with me."
"You can be anything you want to be, just turn yourself into anything you think that you could ever be."
David Bowie
"I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring."
"I'm always amazed that people take what I say seriously. I don't even take what I am seriously."
"The truth is, of course, that there is no journey. We are arriving and departing all at the same time."
Kurt Cobain
"I'd rather be hated for who I am, than loved for who I am not."
"The duty of youth is to challenge corruption."
"Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are."
Classical Musicians
Ludwig van Beethoven
"Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life."
"To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable."
"I will seize fate by the throat; it shall certainly never wholly overcome me."
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
"The music is not in the notes, but in the silence between."
"Neither a lofty degree of intelligence nor imagination nor both together go to the making of genius. Love, love, love, that is the soul of genius."
"I pay no attention whatever to anybody's praise or blame. I simply follow my own feelings."
Johann Sebastian Bach
"I was obliged to be industrious. Whoever is equally industrious will succeed equally well."
"Music is an agreeable harmony for the honor of God and the permissible delights of the soul."
"There's nothing remarkable about it. All one has to do is hit the right keys at the right time and the instrument plays itself."
Composers
Modern Composers
Igor Stravinsky
"To listen is an effort, and just to hear is no merit. A duck hears also."
"I haven't understood a bar of music in my life, but I have felt it."
"The trick is to compose what one wants to compose and to get it commissioned afterward."
Leonard Bernstein
"To achieve great things, two things are needed; a plan, and not quite enough time."
"This will be our reply to violence: to make music more intensely, more beautifully, more devotedly than ever before."
"Music can name the unnameable and communicate the unknowable."
John Cage
"I can't understand why people are frightened of new ideas. I'm frightened of the old ones."
"Everything we do is music."
"I have nothing to say and I am saying it and that is poetry as I need it."
Romantic Composers
Franz Liszt
"Mournful and yet grand is the destiny of the artist."
"Beware of missing chances; otherwise, it may be altogether too late some day."
"The public is always good."
Richard Wagner
"I write music with an exclamation point!"
"Imagination creates reality."
"Joy is not in things; it is in us."
Johannes Brahms
"Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind."
"It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table."
"Straight-away the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God, and not only do I see distinct themes in my mind's eye, but they are clothed in the right forms, harmonies, and orchestration."
Pianists
Classical Pianists
Frédéric Chopin
"Simplicity is the final achievement. After one has played a vast quantity of notes and more notes, it is simplicity that emerges as the crowning reward of art."
"Bach is like an astronomer who, with the help of ciphers, finds the most wonderful stars."
"Nothing is more beautiful than a guitar, save perhaps two."
Arthur Rubinstein
"I have found that if you love life, life will love you back."
"Of course there is no formula for success except, perhaps, an unconditional acceptance of life and what it brings."
"It is my profound belief that music is the only genuine magic in the world."
Vladimir Horowitz
"There are three kinds of pianists: Jewish pianists, homosexual pianists, and bad pianists."
"My future is in my past and my past is my present. I must now make the present my future."
"Perfection itself is imperfection."
Jazz Pianists
Duke Ellington
"A problem is a chance for you to do your best."
"I merely took the energy it takes to pout and wrote some blues."
"The wise musicians are those who play what they can master."
Thelonious Monk
"The piano ain't got no wrong notes."
"You can’t steal a gift. Bird [Charlie Parker] gave the world his music, and if you can hear it, you can have it."
"A genius is the one most like himself."
Bill Evans
"It bugs me when people try to analyze jazz as an intellectual theorem. It’s not. It’s feeling."
"There is no formula. There are no two identical performances of a piece."
"I think jazz is a wonderful thing, not only because it's American, but because it stands for freedom."
Jazz Players
Saxophonists
John Coltrane
"You can play a shoestring if you're sincere."
"My goal is to live the truly religious life and express it through my music. If you can live it, there's no problem about the music, because it's part of the whole thing."
"I think music is an instrument. It can create the initial thought patterns that can change the thinking of the people."
Charlie Parker
"Don't play the saxophone. Let it play you."
"Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom. If you don’t live it, it won’t come out of your horn."
"If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn."
Sonny Rollins
"Jazz is the type of music that can absorb so many things and still be jazz."
"Improvisation is the ability to create something very spiritual, something of one's own."
"Music represents nature. Nature is the force of the universe that is always coming to us."
Trumpeters
Louis Armstrong
"If you have to ask what jazz is, you'll never know."
"What we play is life."
"Musicians don't retire; they stop when there's no more music in them."
Miles Davis
"Do not fear mistakes. There are none."
"For me, music and life are all about style."
"Don't play what's there; play what's not there."
Dizzy Gillespie
"It's taken me all my life to learn what not to play."
"My father didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it."
"The more I learn, the more I realize I don't know."
Bassists
Charles Mingus
"Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that's creativity."
"Anyone can make the simple complicated. Creativity is making the complicated simple."
"In my music, I'm trying to play the truth of what I am. The reason it's difficult is because I'm changing all the time."
Jaco Pastorius
"I'm not a star, I'm just backing up the cats."
"I am the greatest bass player in the world."
"A great bass solo is to me like a solid ass whooping."
Ron Carter
"The bass, no matter what kind of music you're playing, it just enhances the sound and makes everything sound more beautiful and full."
"Music is the one thing that can bring everyone together."
"I've learned that you should never make the same mistake twice."
Drummers
Buddy Rich
"I can't sit down long enough to absorb any kind of learning."
"You only get better by playing."
"I play a musical instrument a little bit, but only for my own amazement and for my own entertainment."
Art Blakey
"Jazz washes away the dust of everyday life."
"A name doesn't make the music. It's just called that to differentiate it from other types of music."
"Music is supposed to wash away the dust of everyday life."
Max Roach
"The American drummer is a one-man percussion orchestra."
"You can practice to the point of perfection, but only with a great group will you achieve it."
"Jazz is a very democratic musical form. It comes out of a communal experience. We take our respective instruments and collectively create a thing of beauty."
Vocalists
Ella Fitzgerald
"The only thing better than singing is more singing."
"It isn't where you came from, it's where you're going that counts."
"Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong."
Billie Holiday
"You can't copy anybody and end with anything. If you copy, it means you're working without any real feeling."
"If I don't have friends, then I ain't got nothing."
"I'm always making a comeback, but nobody ever tells me where I've been."
Nina Simone
"Jazz is not just music, it's a way of life, it's a way of being, a way of thinking."
"You've got to learn to leave the table when love's no longer being served."
"An artist's duty, as far as I'm concerned, is to reflect the times."
These quotes from an array of iconic musicians, composers, pianists, and jazz players provide a glimpse into their thoughts, philosophies, and creative processes, inspiring generations of music lovers and practitioners alike.
Inspiring Composer Stories
Ludwig van Beethoven: Triumph Over Adversity
Story: Ludwig van Beethoven is one of the most influential composers in the history of Western music, renowned for his symphonies, sonatas, and quartets. What makes his story particularly inspiring is his triumph over personal adversity. By his late 20s, Beethoven began to lose his hearing, a devastating condition for a musician. Despite this, he continued to compose some of his most celebrated works, including the Ninth Symphony, which includes the famous "Ode to Joy."
Inspiration: Beethoven's resilience in the face of his hearing loss is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his art. His ability to continue creating masterpieces despite such a significant personal challenge inspires many to persevere through their own struggles and to continue pursuing their passions regardless of obstacles.
Frédéric Chopin: The Poet of the Piano
Story: Frédéric Chopin, a Polish composer and virtuoso pianist of the Romantic era, is known for his sensitive and expressive piano compositions. Chopin moved to Paris in 1831, where he faced challenges as a foreigner and suffered from poor health throughout his life. Despite these hardships, Chopin composed some of the most beautiful and technically demanding piano music ever written, including his nocturnes, etudes, and polonaises.
Inspiration: Chopin's ability to channel his emotions and personal suffering into his music has inspired generations of musicians and listeners. His delicate and nuanced compositions demonstrate the power of music to convey deep emotional truths and to provide solace and beauty in difficult times.
Johann Sebastian Bach: A Legacy of Devotion
Story: Johann Sebastian Bach, a German composer and musician of the Baroque period, is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers of all time. Bach's life was marked by personal and professional challenges, including the death of his first wife and several of his children. He worked tirelessly, often composing music for weekly church services while also holding demanding positions as a court musician and choir director.
Inspiration: Bach's extraordinary output and the enduring quality of his music are a testament to his relentless work ethic and deep faith. His ability to create complex and spiritually profound music in the face of personal tragedy and professional demands inspires many to pursue their creative goals with dedication and perseverance.
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Overcoming Personal Demons
Story: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, a Russian composer of the Romantic era, is known for his emotionally charged music, including the ballets "Swan Lake," "The Nutcracker," and "Sleeping Beauty," as well as his symphonies and concertos. Tchaikovsky struggled with his homosexuality, which was considered taboo and illegal in 19th-century Russia. He also faced bouts of depression and self-doubt throughout his life.
Inspiration: Despite his personal struggles, Tchaikovsky poured his emotions into his music, creating works that resonate with audiences worldwide. His ability to transform personal pain into timeless art inspires others to use their creative talents as a means of coping with and overcoming their own challenges.
Clara Schumann: A Pioneer for Women in Music
Story: Clara Schumann, a German pianist, composer, and piano teacher, was one of the most distinguished musicians of the 19th century. Married to the composer Robert Schumann, Clara balanced her career with raising eight children and supporting her husband through his struggles with mental illness. After Robert's death, she continued to perform and compose, becoming one of the first female pianists to tour extensively.
Inspiration: Clara Schumann's determination to succeed in a male-dominated field and her ability to juggle multiple roles inspire many, particularly women in music and other professions. Her legacy as a trailblazer for female musicians and her commitment to her art despite personal and societal challenges continue to motivate aspiring artists.
Igor Stravinsky: Reinventing Music
Story: Igor Stravinsky, a Russian-born composer, pianist, and conductor, is known for his revolutionary contributions to modern music. His early works, such as "The Firebird," "Petrushka," and "The Rite of Spring," caused a sensation with their innovative rhythms, dissonances, and orchestration. "The Rite of Spring" famously caused a riot at its 1913 premiere in Paris due to its avant-garde nature.
Inspiration: Stravinsky's willingness to break away from traditional musical forms and explore new, sometimes controversial, ideas exemplifies the importance of innovation and risk-taking in art. His success despite initial backlash encourages artists to push boundaries and stay true to their creative visions.
Ennio Morricone: The Maestro of Film Music
Story: Ennio Morricone, an Italian composer and conductor, is celebrated for his film scores, including those for "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly," "Once Upon a Time in the West," and "The Mission." Morricone composed over 400 scores for cinema and television, along with over 100 classical works. Despite facing skepticism early in his career about the artistic value of film music, Morricone's work gained critical acclaim and earned him numerous awards, including an Honorary Oscar in 2007.
Inspiration: Morricone's career demonstrates the power of perseverance and the impact of music on storytelling. His ability to elevate film music to an art form in its own right inspires composers and musicians to explore diverse genres and mediums for their work.
Aaron Copland: The Sound of America
Story: Aaron Copland, an American composer, composition teacher, writer, and conductor, is known for his works that defined the American sound in classical music. Pieces like "Appalachian Spring," "Rodeo," and "Fanfare for the Common Man" evoke the landscapes and spirit of the United States. Copland's efforts to create distinctly American music, often incorporating folk tunes and themes, were groundbreaking.
Inspiration: Copland's dedication to crafting a unique American musical identity and his success in doing so inspire composers to draw from their own cultural heritage and surroundings. His work encourages artists to find their voice and contribute to the cultural landscape of their time.