What are the advantages and disadvantages of traditional (acoustic) and electronic pianos? more
Find out how to gain a distinction in a Performance Grade music exam or a conventional Graded Music Exam. Most music exam candidates do not get a distinction, although most do pass - gaining a distinction is about knowing well before your exam date how to get good marks. Here are some tips for getting distinction marks in the pieces or songs, whichever examining board you use - ABRSM, Trinity, LCM or MTB and whichever type of grade exam you are taking. Get on target soon! more
How to improve your sight reading and do your best in the sight reading element of music exams - all instrumentalists and singers. more
I have shared techniques for improving sight reading with you before but now, for the first time, I'm going to tell you the true story of how I became a good sight reader! more
Choosing a teacher is a big decision - you will be putting time, effort and money into learning to play or sing so you want the best teacher for you or your child. Here's some help with finding the right teacher. more
Who needs to be able to read music? When could you or your child start learning? Just how do people learn to read notation? more
The supporting tests in music exams (aural, scales, study, musical knowledge, improvisation) are given different weighting depending on which board you choose and the percentage you need to get a distinction varies too. Find out which board would suit you best and discover how to get distinction marks in these tests in your exam, whether it's with ABRSM, Trinity or LCM. more
Is it too late for me, as an adult, to master the piano? How will I learn? What is the best way to begin? How long will it take? Is it worth the effort? These must be among the most frequently asked questions about learning to play the piano, or indeed any musical instrument. Here are some answers to consider. more
The old saying, 'When the student is ready, the teacher appears,' turns out to be true for an adult returning to piano lessons after a gap of many years. This student is ready and he shares his hopes and dreams. more
Choosing a musical instrument is a very important occasion and making the right choice of first instrument is so important. Here are some guidelines on choosing a trumpet. more
Is being a good performer about talent or about practising the skills needed for playing to an audience? more
So, you have your new guitar at last and you're wondering how to start. Maybe you know a few chords and you're wondering how to link them together in cool progressions like the ones you hear in the music you listen to. Here's your beginner's guide: an E-MusicMaestro guest blog, written by expert guitarist and teacher, Marc-Andre Seguin! more