Quick Answer The baritone clef is a type of musical notation that helps musicians read music by indicating the pitch of notes. Although it’s not as commonly used as other clefs, it serves a unique purpose in certain compositions. In modern music notation, using the baritone clef can be either a mistake or an intentional […]

Quick Answer Learning music theory after decades of playing can seem daunting, but it’s a journey worth taking. Musicians often possess a rich, instinctive knowledge, and harnessing this experience can make theory come alive in unexpected ways. Yes, musicians can learn music theory later in life by drawing on their practical skills and choosing resources […]

Quick Answer Chord notations serve as a musician’s shorthand for capturing the unique combination of notes that form specific chords. These notations act like a secret code, enabling musicians to instantly grasp what notes to play. No, a C9 is not the same as a C7add9; they are distinct chords with different note compositions. Understanding […]

Quick Answer Mixed tonality is a captivating musical concept where a piece incorporates chords from both major and minor keys that share a tonic, known as parallel keys. This technique adds depth and surprise to music, often eliciting a powerful emotional response. In “Kiss from a Rose,” Seal skillfully uses mixed tonality by integrating chords […]

Quick Answer In music, accidental notation involves choosing between notes like A# and Bb, akin to selecting the right outfit for an occasion. While both notes sound identical on a piano, the choice hinges on musical context and stylistic preference. A# or Bb is correct based on the key signature, chord progression, and the overall […]

Quick Answer Pop music has always been a vibrant blend of influences, constantly absorbing elements from various genres. This evolution in musical structures, harmonies, and melodies prompts us to consider whether a new “pop modality” is emerging. Indeed, modern pop music is crafting a new ‘pop modality’ by merging traditional and innovative musical ideas, reshaping […]

Quick Answer Figured bass and Roman numerals are vital tools in music theory, offering a shorthand for describing harmony and chord progressions. They are fundamental to understanding the harmonic structure of both classical and contemporary pieces. Figured bass provides numerical chord notation, while Roman numerals outline chord relationships within a key. Think of them as […]

Piano Companion is a music theory app for songwriters, producers, teachers, and students. It’s a flexible piano chord and scale dictionary with user libraries, reverse mode, circle of fifths, and a chord progression builder with common patterns. If you can’t remember the name of a piano chord or scale, this app will help you to […]

The Beatles’ music is a treasure trove for learning music theory on the piano, offering both complexity and accessibility. Exploring music theory through The Beatles involves diving into their rich catalog of songs, where you can uncover key musical concepts like chord progressions, melody, and rhythm. This journey deepens your understanding of music theory and […]

Quick Answer Unconventional rhythms in music defy traditional patterns, often incorporating complex meters, irregular time signatures, or unique syncopations. These rhythms challenge and thrill both performers and composers, inviting us to delve deeply into their creative potential. While no single method exists for notating these rhythms, drawing from global musical traditions offers effective strategies. This […]