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Musical Composition, Theory and Songwriting/Questions Answered by Expert Clare Redfarn
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Keys and Transposition | 1/10/2012 |
| Q: I played clarinet in high school band, and recently started again after 32 years. I know that ... A: Although the clarinet can play any chromatic note within its range, because of the way it's ... | |
| Pedalling in Mozart K.310 | 12/14/2011 |
| Q: Its me, again. Hope you're doing well! I've taken your advice and stuck to Fazil Say's Paganini ... A: You're right, it needs some pedal. Mozart needs absolute clarity and a singing legato that, in his ... | |
| music path | 12/11/2011 |
| Q: I have a musical talent (I have to ability to copy concerts , songs with all details on my mind and ... A: You obviously enjoy listening and responding to music, but so does nearly everyone - loving music ... | |
| 8va both clefs? | 12/6/2011 |
| Q: I am referring specifically to piano Sonatina, Op. 157, No. 1 by Spindler, first movement. When 8va ... A: No, the 8ve over a stave only ever refers to that stave so leave your left hand where it is. The ... | |
| LTCL Program Selection | 7/31/2011 |
| Q: Its me Abhaya again; you'd advised me on my LTCL program selection. ... A: I'm sorry for the long wait but I've had another month of ill-health. All very boring and I'm fine ... | |
| Song n Music | 7/28/2011 |
| Q: i have wrote a song and would like someone to check it and try to write sum music for it but you see ... A: I can't advise you about writing lyrics although I've found a couple of websites that might be ... | |
| Composing and notating music | 5/16/2011 |
| Q: and i desperately need your help as much as possible please. :( I'm in my last year of schooling in ... A: and thanks for being patient. Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough ... | |
| melody writing | 5/16/2011 |
| Q: I am studying grade 6 A.M.E.B piano, and grade 4 A.M.E.B musicianship. I have my musicianship exam ... A: and thanks for being patient. You're learning theory and I hope you also have aural training. Each ... | |
| Bela Bartok | 4/14/2011 |
| Q: How would you analyze Bartok Rhapsody No.1 (Moderato)? A: and thanks for waiting. I've been trying to find a score of this work online but haven't succeeded ... | |
| Dvorak 4 Romantic Pieces | 4/14/2011 |
| Q: How would you analyze Dvorak 4 Romantic Pieces? Thank You. A: and thanks for being patient. I'm guessing this is for a prgramme note rather than a complete ... | |
| Accidentals & key signatures | 3/19/2011 |
| Q: How many accidentals does there need to be on sheet music for piano to change the key signature? ... A: You're confusing "key" with "key signature" so there are two separate questions here. Changing key ... | |
| music | 1/27/2011 |
| Q: I noticed that you mentioned tone deafness in one of your other answers, so I have some questions. ... A: and thank you for being patient. I’ve just spent an unexpected ten days in hospital and am ... | |
| Music is my life | 10/21/2010 |
| Q: I can play by ear, and I want to start covering songs that I can play at bars or events for people ... A: Well, you've identified the problem and its solution so what's stopping you? Work out a practice ... | |
| 2 part counterpoint | 10/20/2010 |
| Q: in reference to Isabel asking about the trinity exam question 2 and your answer for the may 2009 ... A: and thanks for being patient. I think you mean the May 2008 question that I corrected for Isabel ... | |
| Songs which expresses love for one's country? | 10/12/2010 |
| Q: to your knowledge, are there many British songs, in the 20th century, which expresses the love for ... A: and thank you for being so patient. National songs tend to appear in times of war - the two ... | |
| grade 8 trinity exercise 1 old syllabus | 9/13/2010 |
| Q: i have a difficulty what the following are eg: italian 6th? november 2005 c may 2004 d november ... A: Did I get the answers in the wrong order? It looks as if I might have done - sorry! Nov '05: we're ... | |
| grade 8 trinity exercise 1 old syllabus | 9/8/2010 |
| Q: i have a difficulty what the following are eg: italian 6th? november 2005 c may 2004 d november ... A: and thanks for being patient. These chords are easy to identify in closed position (with all the ... | |
| grade 8 trinity exercise 1 old syllabus | 9/8/2010 |
| Q: i have a difficulty what the following are eg: italian 6th? november 2005 c may 2004 d november ... A: Take what my pupils refer to as the Euro-sixths first. They're three versions of the same augmented ... | |
| musical symbol | 9/4/2010 |
| Q: I am playing piano but I saw two symbols I don't really understand. 1. I saw a note (maybe C) in ... A: and thanks for being patient. The notes printed in a smaller font than the others are a descant, ... | |
| musical symbol | 9/2/2010 |
| Q: I am playing piano but I saw two symbols I don't really understand. 1. I saw a note (maybe C) in ... A: I'll answer your second question first. If you're writing 4-part harmony in closed score (on the ... | |
| theory grade 8 | 8/31/2010 |
| Q: May 2004 - Trinity old syllabus exercise 3 a grade 8 bass from 3 rd bar: G, A minims / / D ... A: and thanks for being patient. The first phrase is fine but the second phrase isn't so successful. ... | |
| Time signature | 8/26/2010 |
| Q: A friend and I have both been pondering over the time signature of a piece of music recently and ... A: Well, it certainly isn't 9/8 as that's 3 beats to the bar subdivided into 3 = One-and-a Two-and-a ... | |
| Time signature | 8/26/2010 |
| Q: A friend and I have both been pondering over the time signature of a piece of music recently and ... A: and thanks for the clip - very interesting! There are two patterns, each of which are 4 bars long. ... | |
| theory grade 8 | 8/2/2010 |
| Q: May 2004 - Trinity old syllabus exercise 3 a grade 8 bass from 3 rd bar: G, A minims / / D ... A: This is a tricky one because it starts ambiguously and we don't establish our home key until halfway ... | |
| theory grade 8 | 7/23/2010 |
| Q: May 2004 - Trinity old syllabus exercise 3 a grade 8 bass from 3 rd bar: G, A minims / / D ... A: and I'm so sorry you've had such a long wait. On the whole this isn't bad although something's gone ... | |
| theory questions | 7/1/2010 |
| Q: After I had sent off our last correspondence I found three (3) past 4th Grade exam papers so chose ... A: and thank you for being so patient. This is a time-consuming way of working - writing out in words ... | |
| ATCL Recital Programme Notes | 6/24/2010 |
| Q: I stumbled across this website while researching on information regarding ATCL programme notes. I'm ... A: and thank you for being so patient. It seems every other question I'm asked on this forum is about ... | |
| Plan a balance Programme | 6/23/2010 |
| Q: I've read one of your post regarding programme planning. You mentioned many advanced students who've ... A: You're aiming for 40 minutes' playing time more or less, so you're currently around 6 minutes short. ... | |
| re theory grade 8 | 6/20/2010 |
| Q: ANSWER: Hello Isabel, Yes, post them as soon as they're ready. Best wishes ---------- FOLLOW-UP ... A: and thanks for being so patient. You're still not getting the cadences right, which is a shame ... | |
| programme notes for dip | 6/17/2010 |
| Q: How can I find information on this pieces 1.Prelude No. 15 In G major, BWV884 Fugue No. 15 In G ... A: and thanks for being patient. I take it you've read my previous postings on programme notes so know ... | |
| Plan a balance Programme | 6/15/2010 |
| Q: I've read one of your post regarding programme planning. You mentioned many advanced students who've ... A: and thanks for being patient. Music derives its emotional intensity from the constant build-up and ... | |
| changing scales | 6/14/2010 |
| Q: I have a problem that if i start to write a song using a scale like harmonic minor scale, i keep ... A: and thanks for being patient. Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough ... | |
| re theory grade 8 | 6/13/2010 |
| Q: ANSWER: Hello Isabel, Yes, post them as soon as they're ready. Best wishes ---------- FOLLOW-UP ... A: and thanks for being patient. As always, you have to think harmonically in this question, but as ... | |
| Programme Notes for ABRSM Performance Diploma | 6/5/2010 |
| Q: I am 18 and plan to take the ABRSM Performace Diploma this summer on the violin. I took GCSE music ... A: Michelle, you must have given up hope of hearing from me. I'm so sorry you've had to wait so long ... | |
| theory questions | 5/27/2010 |
| Q: How are you and how is your life going? I hope you are keeping well and I pray for peace for you ... A: and thanks for being patient. On the whole I think you've cracked Grade 4, so well done. Time to ... | |
| theory | 5/12/2010 |
| Q: bar 2 bass: E crotchet // D crotchet, G dotted crotchet, F quaver //E crotchet (others civen)// 1st ... A: You're still having problems with modulation. Your first phrase is fine, but you've gone wrong in ... | |
| theory | 5/3/2010 |
| Q: bar 2 bass: E crotchet // D crotchet, G dotted crotchet, F quaver //E crotchet (others civen)// 1st ... A: Your first 4 bars are fine - you could also put in a quick modulation to the dominant at the end of ... | |
| theory question | 4/30/2010 |
| Q: How's things going? I hope all is well with you as it finds us here and that you be in health, as ... A: and thanks for being patient. We can get the transpositions out the way quickly - you've got them ... | |
| theory | 4/14/2010 |
| Q: so nov 2008 ex 2 trinity guildhall old syllabus grade 8 so in bar 5 its in c major though i am not ... A: Not quite. We get some hints on how to work the 2nd phrase if we look at the last 4 bars. The ... | |
| theory | 4/13/2010 |
| Q: so nov 2008 ex 2 trinity guildhall old syllabus grade 8 so in bar 5 its in c major though i am not ... A: Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear - what's happened to the first phrase? What key do you think we're in? ... | |
| theory | 4/12/2010 |
| Q: so nov 2008 ex 2 trinity guildhall old syllabus grade 8 so in bar 5 its in c major though i am not ... A: I'll start with the ending, which is nearly right. The one note you've got wrong is that D in the ... | |
| Programme Notes for ATCL | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: It's me again! (You gave me some really great advice last year in June for my Advanced Certificate ... A: You're not going to welcome my opinion, and I'm not trying to undermine your violin teacher in any ... | |
| grade 8 theory | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: can i send you to help me? ANSWER: Hello Isabel, Yes, work one of the past papers and I'll have a ... A: Isabel, you're not listening to what you're writing. You're copying patterns of notes from one part ... | |
| grade 8 theory | 4/8/2010 |
| Q: can i send you to help me? ANSWER: Hello Isabel, Yes, work one of the past papers and I'll have a ... A: More two-part counterpoint, but this time it's longer and includes sequential repetition, which is ... | |
| theory question | 4/1/2010 |
| Q: How's things going? I hope all is well with you as it finds us here and that you be in health, as ... A: and a belated Happy Easter to you. You're coming on well with these but you need to experiment more ... | |
| Diatonic and Chromatic Intervals | 3/31/2010 |
| Q: I am studying 5th Grade Theory and sometimes need to identify intervals as being diatonic or ... A: and thanks for being patient. According to Macpherson, "The terms diatonic and chromatic are also ... | |
| theory | 3/23/2010 |
| Q: bass clef: 2 nd bar: G dotted crotchet (given) E crotchet /// 4 crotchets F D F F /// dotted ... A: Did you take the exam, and if so, what mark did you get? Yes, I'm here to help so send me examples. ... | |
| I'm having difficulty understanding certain concepts | 3/22/2010 |
| Q: I have been learning a lot about various scales and modes, and music theory in general. I have a few ... A: and thank you for being patient - I'm sorry it's taken me so long to respond. Western music divides ... | |
| Vocal Problems | 3/17/2010 |
| Q: 1. I have a bad habit of sing with a covered voice sometimes - how do I sing through the mask of my ... A: and thanks for being patient. I can't answer your first 2 questions as they're about vocal ... | |
| theory question | 3/15/2010 |
| Q: How's things going? I hope all is well with you as it finds us here and that you be in health, as ... A: and thank you for being patient. Another nightmarish week in and out of hospital. Your ... | |
| Classical period cadences | 3/8/2010 |
| Q: Could you tell me if there is a technical name for the perfect cadence that is commonly used by ... A: Jon, by now you must have given up hope of hearing from me. I'm so sorry - I'm snowed under with ... | |
| theory questions | 2/28/2010 |
| Q: Bearing them in mind I have these exercises in minor keys to run by you and hoping on hope I may ... A: and thanks for being patient. This week has been manic. i) Oh dear. You've doubled your leading ... | |
| Russian music/PC Set Theory/Microtonal | 2/22/2010 |
| Q: I am working on some compositions using scales from different countries trying to give them an ... A: Michael, I'm sorry you've had to wait for a response but I've been away unexpectedly for a couple of ... | |
| theory questions | 2/19/2010 |
| Q: In answer to your query about the exercises in minor keys; the 1st one in Eminor - what is given is ... A: and thanks for being patient. Ah, so you have to choose the chords. That makes better sense of the ... | |
| theory questions | 2/16/2010 |
| Q: It's been a while. Thank you for your reply to my last correspondence. Hoping that you are fully ... A: Yes, a "lurgy"'s a cold or any other mild ailment eg a stomach upset that has you running to the loo ... | |
| Orchestral Manuscript | 1/22/2010 |
| Q: Claire, years ago I used to buy blank orchestral size manuscript paper - but now I can't find it ... A: Novello produces an A3 pad with 26 staves to the page, available from Chappell online. ... | |
| music theory query | 1/14/2010 |
| Q: There is a lot in harmonising, remembering the technical points and then the hearing of the ... A: Annette, I'm sorry but I've been languishing in bed with the dreaded lurgy since the weekend. Can ... | |
| Music theory and composition books | 1/12/2010 |
| Q: I've listened to "difficult" music from Bach to the Velvet Underground and Miles Davis for years, ... A: and thanks for being patient. I've been stuck in bed with the dreaded lurgy for the past couple of ... | |
| music theory queries | 1/4/2010 |
| Q: Clare! Hoping you had a lovely Christmas and praying that your New Year is one of health, ... A: and happy New Year. The rules of 4-part harmony govern the smooth progression of chords so they ... | |
| LTCL | 1/2/2010 |
| Q: Hope you had a nice holiday. I took your advice and changed my LTCL Recital program to -- 1. BACH ... A: and a happy New Year. Oh, that's a much better balanced programme! You need to try topping and ... | |
| LTCL Program Selection | 12/19/2009 |
| Q: First, let me thank you for helping me out on my Programme Notes for Trinity's Advanced Certificate; ... A: I'm glad your Advanced Certificate went well - congratulations! Since you've asked my opinion, ... | |
| music theory queries | 12/16/2009 |
| Q: Annette here. Wsing the process to contact you, when I receive your reply there is a rating system ... A: Yes, I do read your comments, so thanks for the feedback. And yes, I mean you hear whole chords in ... | |
| improvising with a drummer | 12/13/2009 |
| Q: I have started improvising my own reasonably skilled lead and rhythm guitar playing along with a ... A: and thanks for being patient. If there's two or more tuned instruments improvising together then ... | |
| music theory queries | 12/8/2009 |
| Q: Annette here. Because I haven't been doing theory work requiring my ear on a conscious level (now ... A: Yes, I do know a fair bit about the Kodaly method as it bangs on about the importance of inner ... | |
| ATCL programme notes | 12/4/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to help my 14 year old prepare programme notes for her ATCL tomorrow and am having ... A: I'm sorry I didn't read your question until this (Saturday) afternoon - I see you posted it on ... | |
| music theory queries | 12/3/2009 |
| Q: Annette here. With regards that 2nd transposition in the previous correspondence (which by the way ... A: I gave you the answer to that transposition last time - you've still got the second note wrong ... | |
| music theory queries | 11/28/2009 |
| Q: Annette here. I have some trasnsposition queries and interval queries. With one of the ... A: I'll talk about the intervals first. Your book seems to include intervals that exist in theory but ... | |
| music theory query | 11/23/2009 |
| Q: Annette here. You mentioned that you had music students doing exams, I hope this is okay sending ... A: I'd write it in 4/4 rather than 2/4 so as we have a 4-bar (rather than an 8-bar) phrase. Of course, ... | |
| music theory - making a rhythm pattern | 11/22/2009 |
| Q: Annette again! If I could ask for your input. This is rather a long one I might warn you. It is a ... A: We've hardly had any rain in London - just a couple of showers yesterday. The flooding's up in the ... | |
| music theory - making a rhythm pattern | 11/18/2009 |
| Q: Annette again! If I could ask for your input. This is rather a long one I might warn you. It is a ... A: and thanks for being patient. You've got most of these right. If you're setting words to music, ... | |
| Octave Creep | 11/17/2009 |
| Q: My brother is an amateur trumpeter. I played him the opening notes of "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom ... A: I've never come across the term "octave creep", but I've listened to "Cherry Pink" on Youtube and ... | |
| melody, harmony, tempo and rhythm composition(how are they used) | 11/12/2009 |
| Q: Johnson, I am doing a music assignment and I am stuck, i can not find anything ... A: Music should never be static. It's always moving somewhere, taking ideas, developing them, ... | |
| questions on theory papers Grades 1-5 | 11/10/2009 |
| Q: Annette here again! How are you? Hope you are continuing being well? How is the leg? Grade 5 - ... A: Well, the good news is my foot's finally healed and I've now got to learn to walk again in support ... | |
| developing stylishness | 11/8/2009 |
| Q: I compose average sounding r&b and pop, but keep giving up on songs because I'm not satified with ... A: I had a similar query from Adam - for some reason his reply hasn't been published yet so I'll repeat ... | |
| Counterpoint | 11/3/2009 |
| Q: I have a few questions: one how can I use counter point in a orchestral arrangement? two, what are ... A: and thanks for being patient. The counterpoint question is easy - if you've got one ... | |
| questions on theory papers Grades 1-5 | 10/28/2009 |
| Q: How did you like the marathon effort of the last correspondence? I seemed to be typing for ages, ... A: You seem to be spending every waking moment studying theory<g>! Addictive, isn't it? I'm sorry the ... | |
| theory | 10/27/2009 |
| Q: bass clef: 2 nd bar: G dotted crotchet (given) E crotchet /// 4 crotchets F D F F /// dotted ... A: Isabel, I wondered what had happened to you. You've still got a problem with minor keys. We're in ... | |
| blouse | 10/25/2009 |
| Q: I DONT KNOW IF YOU REMEMBER ME, IM SURE YOU DO, YOUR DRIVER WHO LOST HER TROUSERS DRIVING YOU HOME ... A: When I turned up at the hospital for my next appointment they told me you weren't working there any ... | |
| questions to theory papers Grades 1-5 | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: Hopefully giving you enough time to answer more questions without rushing you. I'll warn you ahead ... A: You'll find the correct order of sharps and flats in the alto and tenor clefs at the end of this ... | |
| questions to theory papers Grades 1-5 | 10/20/2009 |
| Q: Annette again wanting more help with my theory questions. You are being such a help, thank you. ... A: Well, under normal circumstances I work mainly as an accompanist so much of my work is seasonal - ... | |
| ap music theory - Counter Point | 10/19/2009 |
| Q: How do you write counter point on staff paper for the alto clef? A: and thanks for being patient. To be honest I don't know how to respond to your question because I ... | |
| piano composition | 10/19/2009 |
| Q: My nephew is a talented piano player. He has written many beautiful pieces but doesn't have the ... A: I have no idea - as I said, I've never needed to do it. At a guess, I'd say you link an electronic ... | |
| piano composition | 10/18/2009 |
| Q: My nephew is a talented piano player. He has written many beautiful pieces but doesn't have the ... A: I ran a search for music notation software and came up with this website, which may help you. ... | |
| Questions to the theory papers Grades 1-5 | 10/16/2009 |
| Q: Back to the paper Grade 2 - Paper 1 Question 7.4 I don't know if this is what you were referring; ... A: Grade 2 - yes, so the one-word answer they're looking for is "inversion". I gave you the answer at ... | |
| Help on Program Notes | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: I'm 20 and doing my Trinity College Performer's Certificate in Piano this November and I do not have ... A: and thank you for being patient. Programme notes don't need to be long - I usually think in terms ... | |
| more questions from the theory papers Grades 1-5 | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: Grade 3 - Paper 1 Question 3.1 key signature is incorrect. 'Andante' spelt incorrectly. I guessed ... A: I've only just replied to your last question - give me a chance <g>! Q3.1 - Andante misspelt; key ... | |
| more questions from the theory papers Grades 1-5 | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: More questions!! Am I to take it, just from something you said when I asked what it meant to ... A: Q3.1 - the metronome mark's the wrong way round (crotchet = 60 rather than 60 = crotchet); key ... | |
| further questions to theory papers Grades 1-5 | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: Back again! Grade 3 - Paper 1 Question 1.3 Treble clef; time signature 2/2 - which rest is used to ... A: Oh, you're whizzing through these. You've got them all right. No need to type out the question, by ... | |
| questions on theory papers you recommended to download and do in answer dated 6/10/09 | 10/13/2009 |
| Q: How are you? I have some questions relating to the theory papers you recommended that I download and ... A: All your Grade 1 answers are correct - an ostinato is a pattern that's repeated exactly. Grade 2 ... | |
| Time Signature | 10/7/2009 |
| Q: Hey There If I wanted to get rid of measures entirely (or use one big measure) in a piece, how ... A: Ernie, No, because the notes themselves indicate their relative values - if there are minims, ... | |
| Songwriting/ Chord progressions | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: I'm Adam, I'm 14. I'm in a band that is yet to be formed properly. I can't write songs to save my ... A: Music is a language, and like a language it has rules - grammar and syntax. Western music has a ... | |
| writing perfect cadences paino style in minor flat keys | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: I have been writing out the perfect cadences in all the major and minor keys - key signatures sharps ... A: Yep,spot on. Common note stands still, other notes rise. If you're in a minor key, don't forget to ... | |
| more on cadences in vocal (4part harmony) style | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: To clear up a point, I have only done 6th grade singing Trinty College in which as part of the exam ... A: I can, but I won't. You're not ready to start 4-part harmony yet let alone introduce secondary ... | |
| a-level composition | 10/4/2009 |
| Q: I am a young teacher who has been asked to teach the a-level composition module. I did teach the as ... A: and thank you for being so patient. I teach music to A'level standard but don't actually follow an ... | |
| given a soprano line and asked to harmonise in vocal style all cadence points in the melody | 10/2/2009 |
| Q: Clare, Annette again! How are you? I am going to attempt to give you the soprano line (key - D ... A: and thanks for being patient. Thanks also for the background information - very interesting! To be ... | |
| given a soprano line and asked to harmonise in vocal style all cadence points in the melody | 10/1/2009 |
| Q: Clare, Annette again! How are you? I am going to attempt to give you the soprano line (key - D ... A: It isn't a "great advantage" to have inner hearing - it's an absolute necessity. You can't write ... | |
| writing chord VI in four vocal parts | 10/1/2009 |
| Q: Clare, I could have again answered my own question. Since our last correspondence in which I asked a ... A: Annette, You didn't say anything about writing an imperfect cadence! I did wonder, because ... | |
| secondary triad VI in close position in root position | 9/30/2009 |
| Q: Clare, Thanks for the direction to your archives I found the relevant information. I have since ... A: My apologies for misunderstanding the question about "piano style" - I took it to mean "piano ... | |
| music composition | 9/28/2009 |
| Q: I have a music theory book that has a question that reads "In four-part vocal style harmonise the ... A: If you go to my Expert Profile page, there's a list of bullet points under my name that gives you ... | |
| music composition | 9/25/2009 |
| Q: I have a music theory book that has a question that reads "In four-part vocal style harmonise the ... A: Annette, and thanks for being patient - I've had visitors all weekend. The Roman numeral analysis ... | |
| theory | 9/23/2009 |
| Q: bass clef: 2 nd bar: G dotted crotchet (given) E crotchet /// 4 crotchets F D F F /// dotted ... A: You've made rather a mess of bar 4, otherwise it's okay. It's a bit dull and safe, though, wouldn't ... | |
| music composition | 9/23/2009 |
| Q: I have a music theory book that has a question that reads "In four-part vocal style harmonise the ... A: I agree this question could have been more clearly put, but it's talking about 4-part harmony as ... | |
| theory | 9/21/2009 |
| Q: bass clef: 2 nd bar: G dotted crotchet (given) E crotchet /// 4 crotchets F D F F /// dotted ... A: Oh, you've got the hang of these now, Isabel! This is fine - I've only got one quibble. Here's my ... | |
| Emotion in musical composition | 9/20/2009 |
| Q: I know this can get a bit grey but i was hoping that there may be some clear examples of a certain ... A: Tom, and thank you for being so patient. Anyone studying music needs to acquire a thorough ... | |
| Emotion in musical composition | 9/17/2009 |
| Q: I know this can get a bit grey but i was hoping that there may be some clear examples of a certain ... A: Tom, I'm so sorry you've been waiting for my response. I went away unexpectedly this weekend and ... | |
| thoery two part counterpoint | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: first of all thanks for last time. now i worked a question alone. please can you correct it for me ... A: This is much better, Isabel. You're writing much better melodic lines, so well done. You're ... | |
| thoery two part counterpoint | 9/13/2009 |
| Q: first of all thanks for last time. now i worked a question alone. please can you correct it for me ... A: Oh dear, oh dear - you've made a right pig's ear of this one <g>. Never mind, it's all part of the ... | |
| thoery two part counterpoint | 9/10/2009 |
| Q: first of all thanks for last time. now i worked a question alone. please can you correct it for me ... A: and thanks for being patient. On the whole this is okay - you've got the harmonic structure nearly ... | |
| grade 7 old trinity syllabus question 2 | 8/31/2009 |
| Q: hi thanks again for answering to my question - the other problem that i have is - how am i going to ... A: I did, Isabel! I gave you one solution and told you every note - you'll need to add it to the exam ... | |
| suspended chords | 8/31/2009 |
| Q: Any idea how I name a suspended 4th chord using roman numerals? Thanks, Paulo. A: The simple answer is, you can't. The Roman numeral analysis system only indicates underlying ... | |
| two part counterpoint | 8/30/2009 |
| Q: how should i work it out when i am given the treble clef and then has to fill out the bass clef or ... A: All right, Isabel, let's do the one from the May 2009 exam paper. It's at ... | |
| ear training for recognizing chord progressions | 8/29/2009 |
| Q: among many aspects of ear training I have real problem with recognizing chord progressions, ... A: and thanks for being patient. You need to enlist the help of a pianist friend! To begin with, s/he ... | |
| two part counterpoint | 8/26/2009 |
| Q: how should i work it out when i am given the treble clef and then has to fill out the bass clef or ... A: Isabel, and thank you for being patient. I'm unfamiliar with the Trinity syllabus but I've looked ... | |
| two part counterpoint | 8/23/2009 |
| Q: how should i work it out when i am given the treble clef and then has to fill out the bass clef or ... A: I've looked up past papers on the Trinity/Guildhall website and question 2 in Grade 6 Theory is a ... | |
| Romantic piece to analyze for a piano camp | 7/31/2009 |
| Q: I'm hoping you have a couple of suggestions for which Romantic era piece to analyze during a piano ... A: If you open my "past answers" page and scroll down about halfway, there's a question I answered in ... | |
| Programme notes for Performer's Cert | 6/15/2009 |
| Q: I'm a 14-year-old violin student taking my Trinity Performer's Cert (aka Advanced Cert) this month ... A: I've found you a bit more information about Fiorillo. He was a son of Ignacio Fiorillo, who ... | |
| Programme notes for Performer's Cert | 6/10/2009 |
| Q: I'm a 14-year-old violin student taking my Trinity Performer's Cert (aka Advanced Cert) this month ... A: Programme notes don't need to be long - I usually think in terms of three paragraphs: composer, ... | |
| Improvisation | 5/27/2009 |
| Q: Hey - for my GCSE music composition "Music for a special event" my teacher wants me to write a ... A: Your teacher doesn't specify it has to be a 12-bar blues, but that's a good place to start because ... | |
| Thank You | 5/22/2009 |
| Q: it is a tough one indeed and I will let you know if I suss out the word. ANSWER: I've been thinking ... A: and thank you for ruining my weekend <g>. I phoned my mum (retired professional musician) yesterday ... | |
| harmony | 5/20/2009 |
| Q: Can you recommend a tutor who teaches harmony in London. Particularly the Harnonization of a melody ... A: Well, there's always me <g>... I need to know how much theory/aural you've already studied. Do you ... | |
| musical composition | 5/10/2009 |
| Q: I do hope you get well soon! Please tell me what is involved in making a musical composition, a ... A: and thanks for your good wishes. I assume we're talking about all compositions, not just songs? ... | |
| Home of the Whale | 4/5/2009 |
| Q: I've actually met some friends of yours (who seriously rate you) and they tell me you're a walking ... A: I've done some research - took about 10 minutes - and it turns out that Caroline Lavelle is the ... | |
| a particular type of harmony | 3/31/2009 |
| Q: I know the physical sensations (goosebumps, emotional tears) of a certain type of vocal harmony, and ... A: Billy, I asked you to clarify your question because I don't understand what you're asking. The only ... | |
| Analysing an instrumental track | 3/23/2009 |
| Q: The track is called Brotherhood of man by Oscar Peterson trio. Could you please help me with finding ... A: Something went wrong somewhere. Say again? Hello again Olle, Okay, I've now got the mp3, so thank ... | |
| Analysing an instrumental track | 3/20/2009 |
| Q: The track is called Brotherhood of man by Oscar Peterson trio. Could you please help me with finding ... A: I've found it used as a backing track on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-20MtOqhExo. ... | |
| Meter | 3/4/2009 |
| Q: If the meter signature is 4/16 which note receives one beat? Is it a semiquaver or a quaver note ... A: A time signature of 4/16 means four semiquaver beats. I don't think I've ever come across a piece ... | |
| music theory: how easy to find someone? | 2/26/2009 |
| Q: Please: (1) I have no formal music training . . . so it's hard for me to know: (a) what can be ... A: When we're talking about the musical analysis of a piece of music, there's a big, fundamental ... | |
| baion | 11/24/2008 |
| Q: On Donald Fagen's CD, "Kamakiriad" in track 8 "Teahouse On The Tracks" he has a line, "The Seigal ... A: My mother's 86 and also a pianist - she ended her private teaching last year when her last pupil ... | |
| baion | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: On Donald Fagen's CD, "Kamakiriad" in track 8 "Teahouse On The Tracks" he has a line, "The Seigal ... A: Speaking as someone whose maternal grandfather, maternal uncle and father all served in the British ... | |
| baion | 11/21/2008 |
| Q: On Donald Fagen's CD, "Kamakiriad" in track 8 "Teahouse On The Tracks" he has a line, "The Seigal ... A: I'd never heard the term so I've done some research on the Net. A baion is a form of slow samba ... | |
| vocal range: second soprano | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: As I grow older my voice lowers till I am comfortable and clear singing as low as F below middle C. ... A: Well, it depends on what you're all singing, I suppose. If everyone's in unison then it doesn't ... | |
| Programme notes on Kreisler's Variations and Saint Saen's violin concerto | 9/24/2008 |
| Q: Redfarn, My son is preparing for his violin exam at ABRSM. He needs to write programme notes on i) ... A: Programme notes don't need to be long - I usually think in terms of three paragraphs: composer, ... | |
| Plagal Cadences | 8/17/2008 |
| Q: Hey, I'm doing Music Theory by the correspondence school (which is really hard!) I need to write two ... A: You don't say whether you're writing 4-part harmony (SATB) or triads in the RH, single notes in the ... | |
| 5/3 | 8/6/2008 |
| Q: i understand the I,IV, V,iii, system to represent chords....... I just wasn't following the 5/3 ... A: The basis of the Western key system is that: the octave is divided into 12 equal semitones; the two ... | |
| Music theory | 7/21/2008 |
| Q: I used to take piano as a kid, when I was 6 years old, up until around 15. During that time, I ... A: First of all you need to find out how much theory you remember. If you go to ... | |
| programmae notes for Dip ABRSM | 7/14/2008 |
| Q: I am a student about to sit my DipABRSM next month, and I was wondering if you could help with my ... A: Programme notes don't need to be long - I usually think in terms of three paragraphs: composer, ... | |
| Music composition | 7/12/2008 |
| Q: I'm 18, I'm a singer/guitarist that's been playing for about 5-6 years and I would like to be able ... A: If you're going to compose you need an understanding of how music "works". It's the difference ... | |
| Help with transposition please | 6/25/2008 |
| Q: In a desperate last minute search, I have come across this website. I am a singer (not classical) ... A: Here's what we do. I won't post my private e-address on this forum, but give me yours and I'll ... | |
| theory | 6/20/2008 |
| Q: i really dont want to be to much of a bother. just a simpler question while im waiting for your ... A: Music scores are very carefully proofread and, particularly where spacing/positioning of notes is ... | |
| theory | 6/14/2008 |
| Q: i have come across an x next to a note in the music text i was hoping you could tell me what it ... A: It's a double sharp. There are also double flats, written as two flat signs next to each other ... | |
| Icelandic music | 6/3/2008 |
| Q: Clare Redfarn, Could you tell me anything about conventions of Icelandic traditional/folk music? ... A: and thanks for being patient. The simple answer to your question is "no", so I did some research. ... | |
| theory | 6/1/2008 |
| Q: if a piece of music is in the key signature of 'c'sharp minor, and you come to an 'e'sharp note ,do ... A: If your piece has four sharps as its key signature, then you're either in E major or C# minor. ... | |
| harmony in textures other than 4 part vocal | 5/8/2008 |
| Q: I've have an advanced understanding of harmony but only as it operates in 4 part vocal textures, as ... A: I understand the problem all right, but I'm not sure how motivated you are to put things right. ... | |
| harmony in textures other than 4 part vocal | 5/4/2008 |
| Q: I've have an advanced understanding of harmony but only as it operates in 4 part vocal textures, as ... A: You've asked me this question before, or something similar. I sent you a follow-up to my original ... | |
| Musical notation - slurs | 4/1/2008 |
| Q: My daughter is studying for her Grade 5 flute in the UK. Her teacher has never seen the slur mark ... A: I've never come across this and neither has my mother, who's been a musician for 75 years! I can ... | |
| singing lessons | 3/29/2008 |
| Q: I would like to find in London some cheap singing lessons for medieval renaisance and barroc music.I ... A: You need to visit your local library, which should have a list of singing teachers in your area. ... | |
| Notation of Triads/Chords | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: I'm a student at Berklee, and going through my books I still can't find out the answer to my ... A: The rule with notes and stems is that if the stem points up the note heads are to its left, and if ... | |
| Sounds Sour to me | 2/22/2008 |
| Q: My name is Alex and I just wanted to ask you,my friend is getting a friend to invest in him.His ... A: Alex, if your friend is going to work as a professional musician he needs to join a union. Here in ... | |
| composition | 2/21/2008 |
| Q: ok so i have to compose an 8-bar chorale with the following requirements: 4 part harmony, 4/4 time ... A: I must say I'm surprised that you're not given at least one part because normally at your level ... | |
| two part writing | 2/20/2008 |
| Q: can u tell me about two part piano accampaniment writing. this is 4 my trinity grade 8 paper. mainly ... A: I'm sorry but I'm still confused - I'm guessing from your name that English isn't your first ... | |
| two part writing | 2/19/2008 |
| Q: can u tell me about two part piano accampaniment writing. this is 4 my trinity grade 8 paper. mainly ... A: I've had a look at past exam papers on the Trinity website and they seem straightforward enough. ... | |
| Name of a particular type of sone | 2/16/2008 |
| Q: In the (Irving Berlin?)song between Ethel Merman (and Donald O'Connor?)which begins with O'Connor's ... A: I don't know the song you mention but your description is clear. It's a duet where two melodies are ... | |
| Minor Keys = Sad | 12/14/2007 |
| Q: Why do we associate minor keys with sadness? Do non-Westerners hear minor keys the same way? Do ... A: I teach music and movement to three- and four-year-olds. It's very basic stuff - marching/clapping ... | |
| Programme notes for Mozart's Sonata in Bb K 378, rondeau. | 12/2/2007 |
| Q: I'm 18, doing Trinity ATCL violin exam this December and having trouble finding some programme notes ... A: If you scroll down my profile, click on "more questions answered" and read the post called "help ... | |
| name of a type of duet | 11/21/2007 |
| Q: Is there a special name for the type of duet where both artists are singing 2 entirely different ... A: No, I don't think so (and I've been thinking about this all day). I can think of a number of ... | |
| how to write a song and where u starT? | 11/12/2007 |
| Q: I want to know how to write a song and where u should start to learn all this songwriting? plz help A: If you're going to compose a song you need an understanding of how music "works". It's the ... | |
| Music and theory psychoacoustics | 11/11/2007 |
| Q: The following information might help you to understand my doubts.over the last one year I have ... A: It's no good, David, you've lost me. I've just read the Wikipedia article on "psychoacoustics" ... | |
| music motifs modes | 11/2/2007 |
| Q: I am a professor of Medicine[ Evidence Based Medicine]. My college is in a village in Southern ... A: David, you must have given up hope of hearing from me. I'm so sorry - the silly season has started ... | |
| music motifs modes | 10/29/2007 |
| Q: I am a professor of Medicine[ Evidence Based Medicine]. My college is in a village in Southern ... A: David, I'm sorry I haven't got back to you before now but I've had an exceptionally heavy week ... | |
| music motifs modes | 10/27/2007 |
| Q: I am a professor of Medicine[ Evidence Based Medicine]. My college is in a village in Southern ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| help with programme notes | 10/18/2007 |
| Q: I am a student about to sit my ATCL next month, and I was wondering if you could help with my ... A: Programme notes don't need to be long - I usually think in terms of three paragraphs: composer, ... | |
| Scales | 8/12/2007 |
| Q: Ive been reading about scales and cycle of Vths. I understand all of it, but what is missing from my ... A: It's all down to the mathematics of music, discovered by Pythagoras around 550BCE. The ... | |
| Song in E minor | 7/19/2007 |
| Q: I am writing a song in the key of E minor and I am not sure where to go with it. I need another ... A: Let's go through the degrees of the scale in turn. Supertonic = F# minor - not a good idea. Forget ... | |
| Music Notation | 7/18/2007 |
| Q: I'm a beginning adult piano student. My question involves these notes I see in the bass staff of ... A: This is a shorthand way of writing legato tremolo. You alternate between the two joined minims for ... | |
| rhythm | 6/23/2007 |
| Q: Please help me out with this drill which doesnt make me sleep anymore! If it is too difficult for ... A: Your question didn't make a whole lot of sense at first reading. From the sound of it, the bar has ... | |
| The minor scale, and grouping of notes | 5/20/2007 |
| Q: I am studying music theory at the moment and hope to reach grade 8 by the end of the year. I have ... A: The minor scale differs from the major scale in three places: the 3rd, 6th and 7th degrees are minor ... | |
| Vocal Range | 5/7/2007 |
| Q: I'm 17 years old and I have been singing in my school choir for the past 3 years. I also have been ... A: Carolyn, I've only just read your question (Friday morning) as I've spent the whole week being ill ... | |
| Beethoven's quartets | 3/29/2007 |
| Q: in which Beethoven's string quartet the music seems to quote the German : Ich muss nicht " (I ... A: You're thinking of the final movement of his last quartet, Op 135, which was also the last work he ... | |
| composition help | 3/26/2007 |
| Q: I have a question. My band, (we will be famous someday) and I do not know where to go from where we ... A: and thanks for being patient, Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough ... | |
| Thanks | 3/22/2007 |
| Q: I am replying in the 'ask a question section' because, for some reason, it won't allow me to ... A: The Imperial March has a 4/4 time signature and you were playing 8 crotchets to the bar, eh? Sounds ... | |
| sustain pedal | 3/17/2007 |
| Q: I was very pleased with your response to my first question so I am back to ask another. Let me just ... A: I've got hold of the first pages Across the Stars and Duel of the Fates, but that's all you get with ... | |
| sustain pedal | 3/15/2007 |
| Q: I was very pleased with your response to my first question so I am back to ask another. Let me just ... A: One of the most common faults I come across as a teacher is over-pedalling. Remember, you use the ... | |
| stravinsky's major work | 3/13/2007 |
| Q: 1.what are stravinsky's major works? 2.what do you think about his compositions? 3.How it apply ... A: Major works (off the top of my head): Firebird, Petrushka, Rite of Spring, Soldier's Tale, ... | |
| Menuet and Trio modulations | 3/12/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering if you could help me understand the menuet and trio form more clearly. I am not ... A: The minuet is in triple time and an unhurried tempo - early minuets start on the first beat of the ... | |
| early, medieval, renaissance, and baroque music | 3/11/2007 |
| Q: i am having a really hard time finding the answers to my questions. can you please help me!! 1. ... A: and thanks for being patient. I'm not answering your homework questions for you, but I'll give you ... | |
| merging two songs | 3/9/2007 |
| Q: Can you tell me how I can merge two songs ( Lullaby of Braodway and On Broadway) to be performed ... A: If you're going to sing two songs concurrently then they must share a common harmonic structure, ... | |
| notation | 2/13/2007 |
| Q: I appreciate the detailed response. I've asked this question to a few other experts as well, and I ... A: Jon, and thanks for being patient - this week has been manic. Out of curiousity I had a look at ... | |
| notation | 2/9/2007 |
| Q: I learned to play the piano as a child, but am only now (at age 19) starting to learn more advanced ... A: Scales and arpeggios are the building blocks of all Western music, which is why we learn them. When ... | |
| Piano Sheet Music | 1/31/2007 |
| Q: Perhaps you've experienced this same thing. You hear a great piano track and you desperately want to ... A: My heart sank when I started reading your question! Transcribing music exactly is a terrible job. ... | |
| Phrases | 1/3/2007 |
| Q: Please help me with this annoying drill in my head.. If in a piece of music, say a vocal one, you ... A: and Happy New Year to you too. It's neither. "Question and answer" means the two phrases are ... | |
| MUSIC THEORY | 12/20/2006 |
| Q: COULE YOU HELP ME OUT WITH THESE QUESTION THEY ARE VERY HARD A strongly stressed beat is often ... A: Because I'm a wonderful, kind-hearted person <g> I don't mind helping you with your end of term ... | |
| the major scales | 12/18/2006 |
| Q: e.why we have to write the scale of g major or c major ?? its a bit confusing many thanks john:) A: All Western music is based on a key system that originated in the latter half of the 16th century, ... | |
| Harmonies | 12/11/2006 |
| Q: Clare, you are absolutely incredible! If I had HALF the knowledge you have, I would be on the charts ... A: I do strongly recommend that you take theory classes rather than trying to teach yourself, and if at ... | |
| Harmonies | 12/5/2006 |
| Q: I am decent at singing my own harmonies after recording, but instead of 'hugging' the lead ... A: I've never heard the Indigo Girls but from your description it sounds as if you want to learn to ... | |
| Modulations | 11/28/2006 |
| Q: I am trying to write a 16 bar theme with a modulation. What are the best ways to modulate and why? I ... A: If you're writing 16 bars, that's four 4-bar phrases. The first one establishes your sense of the ... | |
| chord progression | 11/17/2006 |
| Q: how can I find the best chord progressions to fit the mood of the lyrics? example: I'm writing a ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| Musical Vocals | 11/1/2006 |
| Q: I usually compose instrumental pieces, however after playing in many orchestra pits for local shows ... A: Well, if you've got a mixed chorus you can write for as many parts as you like. You can have the ... | |
| how to pull emotions from chords | 9/23/2006 |
| Q: answered where he stated "if you are writing chords and melodies to existing lyrics (your own or ... A: In other words, what musical devices can a composer use to trigger an emotional response? That's a ... | |
| Minor sixth | 9/14/2006 |
| Q: I have been trying to come up with a song to associate with a minor sixth, and I CANNOT come up with ... A: Are you old enough to remember a film that came out in 1970 called Love Story? It starred Ryan ... | |
| How to become a gud singer | 9/14/2006 |
| Q: Respected Sir/Madam pls. explain 2 me abt the technical aspects of a song and also about how to ... A: I'm sorry but I'm not going to be able to help you much. I'm not sure what you mean by the ... | |
| rewriting time signatures | 8/22/2006 |
| Q: I’m currently trying to prepare my daughter for a music theory exam. We are currently having a ... A: The purpose of this question is to find out if you really understand about simple and compound time ... | |
| Question on Harmonising a Melody | 8/20/2006 |
| Q: I am an amateur composer, and I know a bit of theory, and I know how to harmonise melodies. ... A: Before you tackle harmonisation it's vitally important to have a thorough understanding of ... | |
| Melody writing and modulation | 8/16/2006 |
| Q: I am working on Trinity Grade 6 music theory, and grappling with melody writing beyond the simple ... A: The two skills you need to acquire as quickly as possible are a) inner hearing and b) thinking ... | |
| Key signatures - flats and sharps | 8/9/2006 |
| Q: I noticed that some key signatures have up to seven sharps/flats. How does this work? How can there ... A: and thanks for being patient. When you start piano lessons you begin by learning the names of the ... | |
| Different scale over each chord | 7/18/2006 |
| Q: I'm working on a metal song with a power chord progression of e5 f5 c5 b5. Would it make sense to do ... A: Well no, it wouldn't make sense, but then none of it does. If you don't know Chinese, there's no ... | |
| Scalar Movements | 7/4/2006 |
| Q: I have a firm grasp on all the modes of the major scale on the guitar. I also have a descent ... A: and thank you for being patient. It's been a long, hard week. Your problem, and it's one shared by ... | |
| Chord proggression | 6/28/2006 |
| Q: Can you tell me the chord proggression to Bobby Vintons song I love how you love me? A: I haven't heard Bobby Vinton singing this song, but I've listened to the midi file of it at ... | |
| Cadential Points | 6/6/2006 |
| Q: A question about part of the abrsm grade 5 theory exam. The background. The syllabus requires “the ... A: and thanks for being patient. Don't worry, you're answering the question correctly. The wording ... | |
| simple question | 5/27/2006 |
| Q: could you tell me what's the difference between motete and cantate? thank you gabrielle A: Well, the easiest way to define them is: a motet is a sacred madrigal, and a cantata is an unstaged ... | |
| Non chord tones | 4/25/2006 |
| Q: I was surfing the web and stumbled upon your web site and wondered if you could answer a nagging ... A: A 2-3 suspension isn't the same as a 4-3 suspension, and the bass doesn't move in either case. The ... | |
| counterpoint | 4/5/2006 |
| Q: first of all i want you to know i am self-taught. i've been reading some books on counterpoint and ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| S.t. | 3/24/2006 |
| Q: Yes thank you it is Bachs Tocaata and Fugue in MinorI was wondering, when i was looking at this bach ... A: I'm sorry for the very long wait but it's taken me ages to get my hands on a score. I'm not 100% ... | |
| chromatic usage to every degree | 3/20/2006 |
| Q: ... not to beat a dead horse but i think i may not have been terribly clear on my ideal..... all the ... A: Zach, you must have given up hope of hearing from me by now. I'm so sorry. I'm an ... | |
| chromatic usage to every degree | 3/17/2006 |
| Q: i have been playing guitar (and subsequently have learned a bit of piano too) and was wondering if ... A: Well, for a start there are two blindingly fundamental errors in your attempt at E minor, there's no ... | |
| What makes a song/artist last? | 3/7/2006 |
| Q: (This is a school project. The answer can be technical or your expert opinion--anything!) What is it ... A: I'm so sorry you've had to wait such a long time for my response but I was laid off for just over a ... | |
| Electronic music forms | 3/2/2006 |
| Q: Double Click is actually in a compilation called "Israel´s Psychedelic Trance vol.5", of 2001 so ... A: Eduardo, Clare's ill. She's been laid up in bed with an extremely nasty dose of flu all week and ... | |
| Electronic music forms | 3/2/2006 |
| Q: my name´s Eduardo and I´m a 21-year-old music producer living in Sao Paulo, Brazil. I have a good ... A: Well, you're right, I'm a classical musician and I've never heard of Infected Mushroom, but I'm ... | |
| theory related question.... | 2/19/2006 |
| Q: my name is John and ive been playing the guitar for 6 months, I know my scales but other than that I ... A: If you don't know Chinese, there's no use my giving you an English-Chinese dictionary and asking you ... | |
| Composition | 2/11/2006 |
| Q: Just to make clear, Absolute pitch is more important, and don't learn relative pitch? Thanks Hi, ... A: NO! I mean the exact opposite! Relative pitch is absolutely fundamental to a musician. The basis ... | |
| Composition | 2/8/2006 |
| Q: I was wondering what good internet sites and books are there on learning complete music thoery, I ... A: Can I say at the outset that possessing absolute (which is the term I prefer to “perfect” as being ... | |
| major/minor | 1/29/2006 |
| Q: I know the difference between major and minor scales, but I don't know how to tell if a piece is in ... A: Look out for the sharpened leading note. The sharpened 7th note is an important part of the minor ... | |
| hi clare. flip again. i... | 1/27/2006 |
| Q: flip again. i have 2 responses from you but i can't view either one of them due to micorsoft ... A: I'm doing my best! Apparently you don't exist ... The original message was received at Fri, 27 Jan ... | |
| ------------------------- ... | 1/25/2006 |
| Q: i kinda feel like i'm asking a hammer to kill a fly cuz all i want to know is, are there any cool ... A: Oh, you may not have seen a harpsichord but you've certainly heard one. Lurch the butler used to ... | |
| hi. i kinda feel like i'm... | 1/23/2006 |
| Q: i kinda feel like i'm asking a hammer to kill a fly cuz all i want to know is, are there any cool ... A: ALL classical music is cool <g>! The term covers about 500 years' worth of music so what period are ... | |
| how do I start learning composistion? | 1/20/2006 |
| Q: Before I get to my question, I figure you would probably want some backround information on my ... A: I don't know whether you're following any particular theory syllabus, but from the sound of it ... | |
| E minor/G Major scale | 1/14/2006 |
| Q: Im doing a music production analysis piece on Breathe by Pink Floyd and I have a question with ... A: I've found a MIDI file of a Pink Floyd piece called Breathe in the Air at ... | |
| music scale theory | 1/9/2006 |
| Q: I'm trying to figure out a way to explain the music scale and theory to a group of high school ... A: Minor keys. Every major scale has a relative minor, which shares the same key signature. You find ... | |
| music theory | 12/17/2005 |
| Q: I am sure I saw a programme on TV which talked about how the notes that we use in modern music were ... A: If we take the term "art music" to refer to the music common to an entire culture, (as opposed to ... | |
| Analysis problems | 12/16/2005 |
| Q: I'm not sure if you recieved the question after the first one, but it was concerning the chords in ... A: Yes, I did get your follow-up question and I'm sorry you've had to wait so long for an answer. The ... | |
| Analysis Woes | 12/13/2005 |
| Q: Please disregard the previous question and let me get straight to the point. In the piece "Ase's ... A: I think (and I've spent the last half hour checking my beloved Prout and Morris to confirm this) ... | |
| Scale composition | 12/9/2005 |
| Q: I am studying music, and scales/modes in particular, and I have a question that I can't seem to get ... A: The mistake you're making is in assuming that music is a branch of mathematics; it isn't. It's a ... | |
| Composition Help for GCSE | 12/4/2005 |
| Q: I need to write a ternary form composition for my GCSE. I have written my first section, which is in ... A: Well, it depends on how confident you feel about handling modulation. You could stick to any of the ... | |
| doubling modal tones in inversions | 12/2/2005 |
| Q: Let me rephrase my question. I knew all of the information that you gave me already. When you are ... A: My apologies for misunderstanding you but I've never heard of dividing the scale into tonal and ... | |
| doubling modal tones in inversions | 11/29/2005 |
| Q: I know that one does not, in the common practice era, double the modal tone when dealing with first ... A: I'm sorry, but I don't understand your question. What do you mean by "modal tone"? Do you mean the ... | |
| theory of pentatonic scales | 11/4/2005 |
| Q: i am teacher of music theories & rudiments.i just want to know about the chinese music theory in ... A: I can't help you with Chinese music theory as I only know about Western music. I've found you some ... | |
| Deaf singing | 10/25/2005 |
| Q: To Ms. Redfarn, I am a partially deaf person from birth, but have a hearing aid. I've also been in a ... A: I've been doing some research - did you know that Michael Bolton is deaf in one ear? I didn't. And ... | |
| BEETHOVEN'S SYMPHONY No. 7 | 10/20/2005 |
| Q: BEETHOVEN'S SYMPHONY No.7 ,Op.92 IS IN A MAJOR. THE THIRD MOVEMENT-PRESTO-IS IN F MAJOR. THE A ... A: Bear in mind I'm not a clarinettist so what I know about the instrument is purely theoretical. ... | |
| Transcriptions | 10/6/2005 |
| Q: I would be delighted to have the rest of the Brian McKnight transcription if you were willing to ... A: A piece can't be said to be in a key unless you have established its tonic by introducing a dominant ... | |
| Transcriptions | 10/5/2005 |
| Q: I have completed two degrees in Chemistry and have found that: A lot of the coursework could have ... A: It depends how accurate you want your transcriptions to be. One of my first jobs when I was a ... | |
| Programme notes for Kreisler | 10/2/2005 |
| Q: I'm 14, doing Trinity ATCL violin exam this October and having trouble finding some programme notes ... A: How many words are you required to write? Programme notes don't need to be long, say roughly three ... | |
| What's the best book on learning composition you recommend? | 9/22/2005 |
| Q: May I ask which is the best book on learning how to compose that you've ever read? Thank you for ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| Theory | 9/13/2005 |
| Q: I would like to make my own song and I'm using these chords G,D,C,F#dim From my understanding: when ... A: If you don't know Chinese, there's no use my giving you an English-Chinese dictionary and asking you ... | |
| Composition and Logic Pro 7 | 8/27/2005 |
| Q: I've been a musician since 11 years now playing percussions. Now I'd like to start in the field of ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| Music Theory | 8/25/2005 |
| Q: What is it called when a single piece of music changes from one style to another? A: It's not called anything as far as I know - you'd simply refer to the various sections of the piece. ... | |
| Vocal range | 8/24/2005 |
| Q: I have been singing/performing for many many years. Just recently I've been challenging myself, ... A: I'm afraid I can't help you as I don't know anything about vocal training. You need to speak to a ... | |
| Theme and Variation | 8/22/2005 |
| Q: I was wondering if you could tell me the different ways to vary a theme, as the only ones I am able ... A: I've been thinking about this on the long bus ride home, and have come up with the following: a) ... | |
| theory question | 8/9/2005 |
| Q: Although I dont fully understand the answer to my first question yet(im sure your explanation is ... A: I'm not surprised you didn't fully understand about modulation. It *was* a perfectly clear, ... | |
| theory question | 8/8/2005 |
| Q: I have just started learning music theory recently and I have two questions. In this page: ... A: If you don't know Chinese, there's no use my giving you an English-Chinese dictionary and asking you ... | |
| Time Signature | 7/23/2005 |
| Q: I have a piece I'm playing that says a whole note=120bpm but the song is in cut time, so would the ... A: You're confusing the number of beats in the bar, the value of those beats and the speed of the beat. ... | |
| songwriting | 7/15/2005 |
| Q: I play the guitar and Im a vocalist ,and is very eager to learn how to compose songs with it. I have ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| Harmony in Fourth or Fifth | 7/1/2005 |
| Q: I am a musician and love harmony in 4ths or 5ths but it is very hard to find any well stabilished ... A: Have you looked at the Impressionists, in particular Debussy? He frequently uses parallel 5ths in ... | |
| orchestra p.3 | 6/28/2005 |
| Q: and thanks again for getting back to me especially with your busy schedule. I understand that an ... A: and thanks for waiting. Phew, what a week! I've read over what I've already written and I've ... | |
| orchestra p.2 | 6/25/2005 |
| Q: I will take your advise into consideration. Just a couple of things though. One, I dont understand ... A: To answer your second question first, I'm not saying your piece isn't an orchestral composition - of ... | |
| orchestra | 6/22/2005 |
| Q: You were very helpful. I am not a conductor nor do i know anything about it. Ive never gone to any ... A: So you don't want to conduct your own orchestra - you want the chance to hear an existing orchestra ... | |
| imagry | 6/21/2005 |
| Q: See below..I've noticed something in common with my favorite musicans, and I'm wondering if there is ... A: I've heard of synaesthesia but I didn't think what you described was it. You're talking about ... | |
| Composition | 6/20/2005 |
| Q: I'm interested in learning composition but i am a bit confused about the subjects of study that are ... A: If you don't know Chinese, there's no use my giving you an English-Chinese dictionary and asking you ... | |
| orchestra | 6/19/2005 |
| Q: I was just wondering if you know how i can go about starting my own orchestra? Thanks -mike A: Well, you advertise for players. You're not going to get professional musicians (unless you're ... | |
| MUSICAL COMPOSITION | 6/13/2005 |
| Q: im jonathan from peru, my question is aobut muscical composition, i know about, intervals and scales ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| still have harmonic frustrations | 6/8/2005 |
| Q: I'm confused by your PS, by the way. The Lydian mode is nothing like the melodic minor scale. What ... A: I've just sung through Penny Lane, and there's no modulation in it. There's a key change in it, but ... | |
| imagry | 6/7/2005 |
| Q: I've noticed something in common with my favorite musicans, and I'm wondering if there is a term for ... A: I've heard of Terry Riley but not Adam Jones. I've read a bit about them both on the Net but ... | |
| still have harmonic frustrations | 6/4/2005 |
| Q: I'm confused by your PS, by the way. The Lydian mode is nothing like the melodic minor scale. What ... A: I don't know what they taught you at uni, but the sooner you start learning theory properly, the ... | |
| would like to know everything about function of chords in a key | 6/2/2005 |
| Q: Followup To Question - If you listen to just about any rock song, in any given key, the chords ... A: Anyone studying music needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're going to ... | |
| Musical Terminology | 5/29/2005 |
| Q: I would like as complete (as possible) a list of musical terms that are synonymous with "response". ... A: Well, let's start with a single melodic line. If you play a phrase and then repeat it exactly, it's ... | |
| distances | 5/27/2005 |
| Q: What's the difference between the distance of do-diez and Re-bemol? I mean the distance between do ... A: The distance between do and re bemol is a minor 2nd, you're right, but it's also a semitone. So is ... | |
| would like to know everything about function of chords in a key | 5/26/2005 |
| Q: If you listen to just about any rock song, in any given key, the chords played are nearly always the ... A: No problem, ask me what you like. The only reason I said I'm rushed off my feet (apart from the ... | |
| The Troublesome 2/2 vs. 2/4 Question | 5/25/2005 |
| Q: I'm so embarrassed to ask this question; hopefully it's one you've heard so often you've developed a ... A: Oh, the exams are going as usual - last-minute panic as students realise they've maybe left it a bit ... | |
| how to learn scales | 5/24/2005 |
| Q: I have been told by my teacher to memorise my scales. She has explained to me how to play the ... A: Okay, minor scales. Every major scale has a relative minor, which shares the same key signature. ... | |
| would like to everything about function of chords in a key | 5/24/2005 |
| Q: If you listen to just about any rock song, in any given key, the chords played are nearly always the ... A: I don't listen to rock music much but the D-C-G-C riff seems familiar, and you're right when you say ... | |
| russian nationalism | 5/7/2005 |
| Q: I'm doing some research on Shostakovich's fourth symphony and I'm looking into why he didn't release ... A: I've been looking at websites and the following look useful: ... | |
| Composing a song with several instruments | 5/6/2005 |
| Q: ive been studying music theory over the internet (musictheory.net) and i love it. I'm an artistic ... A: It'll help you to come to grips with transposing instruments if you understand why they transpose in ... | |
| Giving music emotion? | 5/1/2005 |
| Q: I'm a beginning composer with no training & know just the basics of how to play piano/keyboard.I ... A: If you don't know Chinese, there's no use my giving you an English-Chinese dictionary and asking you ... | |
| Wagner | 5/1/2005 |
| Q: I hate to be the one to tell you, you sound like a serious person, but a french sixth is a ... A: An augmented sixth is *not* the same as a diminished seventh, so a chord built around an augmented ... | |
| Wagner | 4/30/2005 |
| Q: An analysis of the first vertical sonority of Tristan, please. A: It's a French sixth on the submediant decorated with a chromatic appoggiatura, which resolves onto ... | |
| composing for orchestras | 4/28/2005 |
| Q: I want to compose a work for a whole orchestra, but I lost my sheet that says what the relationships ... A: I ran a web search for "transposing instruments" and came up with a useful list on ... | |
| V7 - I resolution in the minor key | 4/17/2005 |
| Q: I know it is possible to put the leading tone in an inner voice and frustrate the resolution by ... A: The rule, in both major and minor keys, is that the leading note resolves up to the tonic. Usually ... | |
| Music Composition | 3/21/2005 |
| Q: Ms. Redfarn I am currently 23yrs. old. My journey through the world of music began in grade school ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory. If you're ... | |
| Opinion needed per 2 lines of my song/poem.......... | 3/18/2005 |
| Q: Clare: My wife and I have been having 180 degree difference about 2 line parts in the chorus of a ... A: I'm flattered that you should ask my opinion, but I'm not sure why. This isn't a question about ... | |
| chord harmony, bridges, key changes | 3/3/2005 |
| Q: It's hard for me to put this into technical terms, but I'll do my best. I've been a guitar player ... A: If you don't know Chinese, there's no use my giving you an English-Chinese dictionary and asking you ... | |
| Read a score | 2/26/2005 |
| Q: I think I follow you.. Are you aware of any method books or texts that might give me a little focus? ... A: No, I can't personally recommend any coursebooks but I've had a quick look at amazon.co.uk and there ... | |
| romantic style music | 2/23/2005 |
| Q: i have to compose a piece of music in a romantic period style but im not sure how to compose like ... A: You don't say what instrumentation you're composing for but I'm assuming the piece is short - if ... | |
| symphony questions | 2/22/2005 |
| Q: what are the four movements in a symphony and why and what about the 18th century enabled ... A: Start your essay by mentioning the Italian "sinfonia" or opera overture, which by 1700 was in three ... | |
| counterpoint | 2/13/2005 |
| Q: I just wanted to know what the actual definition of counterpoint is, i haven't been able to find a ... A: Counterpoint is the art of adding to a given melody one or more other melodies, above or below, in ... | |
| CHORDS AND MELODY | 2/13/2005 |
| Q: I am currently trying to teach myself to play the piano. As I try day after day I can 't help to ... A: If you don't know Chinese, there's no use my giving you an English-Chinese dictionary and asking you ... | |
| music theory/mathmatic statistic | 2/10/2005 |
| Q: Clare: I have thought about this for a while. Considering there are a finite number of notes in ... A: Music isn't a series of mathematical formulae, it's a language, constantly developing, evolving, ... | |
| music theory/mathmatic statistic | 2/6/2005 |
| Q: Clare: I have thought about this for a while. Considering there are a finite number of notes in ... A: If you put an infinite number of monkeys with an infinite number of typewriters in a room for an ... | |
| schillinger system of composition | 2/1/2005 |
| Q: I am very interested in learning about about the schillinger system of composition, what do you ... A: I ran a websearch and came up with http://fusionanomaly.net/josephschillinger.html and ... | |
| Music Harmony | 1/11/2005 |
| Q: How can I put Harmony with melody? That is, if I have the melody already, is there an easy way of ... A: Music is a language with its own grammar and syntax, and if you're going to compose you need to ... | |
| advance harmony | 1/3/2005 |
| Q: i am jess and i teach music composition but i have poor knowledge on advance harmony subject.. can ... A: I follow the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music syllabus but now only take pupils who ... | |
| Learning Theory | 12/13/2004 |
| Q: My question is, What is the best way to go about learning Music THeory? I have been ... A: Music theory is the grammar and syntax upon which Western music is constructed. The basis of our ... | |
| Random notes vs. scale patterns | 12/10/2004 |
| Q: I'm always challenged when it comes to writing a guitar solo for a song. I write mostly 70's-80's ... A: I haven't a clue what the characteristics of 70s-80s rock music are - I'm a classical musician - so ... | |
| counterpoint | 12/9/2004 |
| Q: I've recently (for the past month) been listening to the fugues from the well tempered clavier. As ... A: When you study music theory, you first learn to recognise something by eye and ear (which is why ... | |
| Composing | 12/6/2004 |
| Q: How do you compose a composition with strong classical themes in it? A: The three inseparable and interdependent elements of music are rhythm, melody and harmony, and all ... | |
| Theory: Scales | 12/5/2004 |
| Q: .. wondering if you could point me in the right direction... I'm at a low level of theory ... A: All Western music regardless of genre - classical, heavy metal, C&W, jazz, whatever - is based on a ... | |
| live performance | 11/25/2004 |
| Q: please could you describe the main functions and provide a breakdown of the different job roles in ... A: I only know about classical music, and in the classical music business there are ... | |
| Variations | 11/18/2004 |
| Q: Are there any typical ways to create variations on a piece of music? A: For variations to "work" their relationship to the original theme has to be apparent ie no matter ... | |
| actual requirements and methods of marking Associated Board Grade VI VII VIII | 11/7/2004 |
| Q: Im trying to write some detailed theory notes that colour code for the things needed in different ... A: Since you're following the Associated Board syllabus, the best place to start is the Associated ... | |
| Night on a Bare Mountain by Modest Mussorgsky | 10/24/2004 |
| Q: Can you tell me the actual story of A Night on a Bare Mountain as I find it Impossible to find it on ... A: and thanks for the nomination, I've got a couple more useful sites for you. ... | |
| bad transition | 10/22/2004 |
| Q: I've been writting a rock/alternative/punk/emo/whatever song lol. I have determined that these ... A: The basis of the Western key system is that: the octave is divided into 12 equal semitones; the two ... | |
| Counterpoint | 10/20/2004 |
| Q: I am a bassist of 8 years and the past couple years I've been studying Jazz. I never knew what ... A: If you've played any trad jazz, then you've played counterpoint. It's the art of adding to a given ... | |
| composing terminology | 10/16/2004 |
| Q: I thought writing a melody has no formula, but in classical music, they speak of " melody-building ... A: The problem with answering your question like this is that I can't demonstrate on the piano or ... | |
| C Minor, D Major, etc. | 10/15/2004 |
| Q: I am really new to music and I was wondering what does it mean when they say like "in G Major" or in ... A: Any subject - music, maths, geography, whatever - has its distinctive terminology and it's important ... | |
| about counterpoint | 10/14/2004 |
| Q: I understand what is harmony. A simple example in C major if i play the notes C- D -E I can ... A: "Harmonisation" is the art of fitting appropriate and effective chords as an accompaniment to a ... | |
| Can you tell me anything about... | 10/7/2004 |
| Q: Can you tell me anything about the "Mozart Effect" A: I'd heard of the Mozart Effect but didn't know much about it so I've had a look at a few websites. ... | |
| How do you notate harp music? | 9/30/2004 |
| Q: Umm... Well, actually, the same as the subject. I know there are pedals and stuff, but how do you ... A: The concert harp has a six and a half octave range (nearly the same as the piano), from C three ... | |
| Music Theory | 9/15/2004 |
| Q: I'm a drummer who has been playing for the past fifteen years. Recently I've begun to realize how ... A: I've been asked about music theory books before on this site, and the problem is that American and ... | |
| It, Fr, Gr and Neapolitan 6ths | 9/15/2004 |
| Q: What is a relatively easy way to learn It, Fr, Gr and Neapolitan 6ths? A: Take what my pupils refer to as the Euro-sixths first. They're three versions of the same augmented ... | |
| quesion | 9/8/2004 |
| Q: What is Harmony and tone color.Answer me in very easy and simple words please. thankyou! A: Western music is based on a key system where the octave is divided into 12 equal semitones; the two ... | |
| Compositional techniques | 9/6/2004 |
| Q: I am looking for some advice on compositional techniques in the style of Bach and Haydn - do you ... A: I'm confused by the last part of your question since Bach (1685-1750) and Haydn (1732-1809) were ... | |
| Counterpoint problems. | 9/4/2004 |
| Q: I am a 2o year old man, who is looking to learn about counterpoint, I know about chord ... A: In order to write good counterpoint you need to think vertically as well as horizontally ie you need ... | |
| Music Composition and Computers | 9/2/2004 |
| Q: I came across this website and figured I might as well make the best of it! I am currently a ... A: If you're going to get anywhere as a musician, let alone a composer, you must be able to hear ... | |
| theory of harmony | 9/1/2004 |
| Q: I've just found the allexperts site and have spent a wonderful morning surfing around. To explain ... A: You're lucky to be able to harmonise instinctively - my grandmother and her two sisters could, and ... | |
| Harmony | 8/24/2004 |
| Q: my friend and I are attempting to learn more about compossing. The only problem is that I have so ... A: Music is a language with its own grammar and syntax, and if you're going to compose you need to ... | |
| music composition | 8/16/2004 |
| Q: i'm a 17 year old artist with interests of producing my own music, there is one problem, i'm ... A: All Western music, regardless of its type (whether it's art music, rock 'n' roll, jazz, hip-hop or ... | |
| Musical Form/Composition | 8/15/2004 |
| Q: I was wondering if you would help me. I have just one small question. I was wondering if you knew ... A: The earliest function of instrumental music was to accompany dancing and singing - music for pure ... | |
| A composers 'voice' | 8/6/2004 |
| Q: and that is why I have come to you again for more information. Before you mentioned about a good ... A: I'm back at last. Sorry for the long delay. If you've followed what I've said so far, you'll see ... | |
| Part writing | 8/5/2004 |
| Q: I just wanted to check something. The vi chord although following the V wasn't part of a cadence (I ... A: I've checked in Morris (Oxford Harmony), Kitson (Elementary Harmony), Thiman (Guide to Elementary ... | |
| Part writing | 8/3/2004 |
| Q: Hope you're well. It's been a while since I've needed to ask a question, but I've recently started ... A: good to hear from you. The answer to your first question is yes, you must. It's an interrupted ... | |
| music | 7/25/2004 |
| Q: Do you have any suggestions as to how I can get better at conducting(how I can figure out if song's ... A: This should be easy. The first beat of the bar is stressed more than the others so you need to ... | |
| Accounting For Taste | 7/13/2004 |
| Q: What subconscious or physiological component differentiates consonance from dissonance? A: If you play a major triad followed by a minor triad to children aged 3+ and ask them what the ... | |
| Piano vs. Harpsichord etc. | 6/18/2004 |
| Q: What are the differences between touch on the piano, harpsichord, clavichord, and organ? I've heard ... A: To begin with, the piano and clavichord are touch-sensitive and the harpsichord and organ aren't. ... | |
| song writing | 6/16/2004 |
| Q: i'm opening a performing arts school in july and one of the sections i would like to work on is song ... A: Performing arts students study drama, dance and music, is that right? I'm unclear how much music ... | |
| aural training | 6/15/2004 |
| Q: what sort of voice exercises is suitable for mixed voices-choir? A: A lot depends on your choir members - are they trained singers, or musical but untrained (ie they ... | |
| theory books | 6/11/2004 |
| Q: Clara, how are you? I'm thinking of going back to college after about 20 years away from a music ... A: The first thing is to find out how much theory you know or remember, so get onto the Associated ... | |
| Classical Structure | 6/8/2004 |
| Q: Classical piano concerti often end the cadenza with a scale run followed by a trill in a ... A: The scale and trill themselves don't have a name as they're not particularly significant (the trill ... | |
| The fall and the lift? | 5/20/2004 |
| Q: I was recently listening to a beautiful song by Rufus Wainwright called Hallelujah. In it he ... A: I've never heard of Rufus Wainwright but I gather this song appears in "Shrek", is that right? ... | |
| harmony for new learners | 5/14/2004 |
| Q: How does one write harmony? A: Harmonisation is the art of fitting appropriate and effective chords as an accompaniment to a melody ... | |
| School fight songs | 5/12/2004 |
| Q: I work in a University Athletic department and we are looking at incorporating a fight song (we ... A: The simple answer is that I've no idea whether such a genre as a fight song exists - I've never ... | |
| trouble getting started! | 5/10/2004 |
| Q: im in nairobi kenya.ive done music up to high school.problem is i cant seem to be able to get ... A: You say you've studied music in school but you don't say whether you're following some kind of ... | |
| sonata form | 5/9/2004 |
| Q: Please give a description of sonata form A: Sonata form is also known as first movement form because it's the form used for first movements of ... | |
| Counting | 5/4/2004 |
| Q: How in the world do you count 32nd and 64th notes? A: You'll find complicated rhythms easy if you get out of the habit of counting and start feeling the ... | |
| Composing Music | 4/30/2004 |
| Q: I´m in a Puzzle for years now, I compose Music. I´ve studied a Bmus in Composition and I know how ... A: If you've got a degree in composition you know more about it than I do, so I don't know how useful ... | |
| Music Theory/Composition | 4/27/2004 |
| Q: I am a young composer, or rather I am a young student who aspires to become a composer. I study ... A: Anyone studying music seriously needs to acquire a thorough understanding of its theory, and a ... | |
| counterpoint | 4/27/2004 |
| Q: Im a bit stuck on how to write counterpoint. What do the numbers underneath the notes mean? and what ... A: In order to write good counterpoint you need to think vertically as well as horizontally ie you need ... | |
| Music Theory | 3/28/2004 |
| Q: I have been playing classical and eletrical guitar for about 3 years now and i have just memorized ... A: First, a question for you. Why do we bother to learn scales (and arpeggios) at all? What's the ... | |
| singing | 3/23/2004 |
| Q: where did the art of singing originate from? A: ), I hope you mean in the context of Western art music, because I don't know anything about ... | |
| Aural training | 3/18/2004 |
| Q: Having been a long-hair musician all my life, I am now interested in popular music (jazz ... A: You haven't got back to me so I'm going to assume you're a pianist. It doesn't make a great deal of ... | |
| Contrast between jazz and classical composition | 3/16/2004 |
| Q: Could you give a basic technical overview of the differences between jazz and classical rhythm, ... A: Jazz came about at the end of the 19th century and is a fusion of two disparate musical cultures ... | |
| studying music theory | 3/14/2004 |
| Q: I have had a life-long interest in music and started writing music from when I was 12 (I am 43 now). ... A: The first thing is to find out how much theory you know or remember, so get onto the Associated ... | |
| Notation | 3/9/2004 |
| Q: When I write for piano, and use an 8va above the staff, does that apply to the left hand as well as ... A: It's a useful tip to remember that some poor sap is going to have to sightread every page of music ... | |
| music (piano) composition using theory | 3/1/2004 |
| Q: I've been playing the piano for about 11 years, and am now doing a senior project on music ... A: and thanks for being patient. I must say I find your question a strange one. Every piece of music ... | |
| Chord Progressions/Comping | 2/24/2004 |
| Q: I'm a guitar playing with about 15 years of experience and I'm now studying classical and working on ... A: There are no "tips or tricks" to acquiring a sound knowledge of music theory - you've just got to ... | |
| composers | 2/22/2004 |
| Q: I have copied and pasted a note from my instructor. She has offered bonus points for anyone who can ... A: Okay, so if we disregard all the superfluous information, we're looking for a composer who writes ... | |
| Order of accidentals | 2/21/2004 |
| Q: Glad to see you're back on the board again! Just a quick question this time. I'm working on the ... A: Yes, it's good to be back at last. I do see what you mean, and no, there's no set order for ... | |
| Need advice on how to see the big picture of Vernacular progressions | 2/12/2004 |
| Q: Progression and vernacular composition. Hi, I have been reading everything I can get my hands on ... A: "Progressions" is the fancy term for chord sequences, and they're usually there to accompany the ... | |
| Brian Wilson | 2/12/2004 |
| Q: I am having some trouble with some things about BareNaked Ladies song Brian Wilson. I have the ... A: You're in luck - I've found a downloadable MIDI and have been listening to it for the past hour. ... | |
| Brian Wilson | 2/12/2004 |
| Q: I am having some trouble with some things about BareNaked Ladies song Brian Wilson. I have the ... A: I've found the lyrics online, which don't help us much, so I'm now trying to find either a ... | |
| History of alternative music | 2/11/2004 |
| Q: I am having some trouble finding some brief history of alternative music. If u can, can you send me ... A: This is completely outside my sphere of expertise or interest - however, I ran a Net search for ... | |
| Brian Wilson | 2/11/2004 |
| Q: I am having some trouble with some things about BareNaked Ladies song Brian Wilson. I have the ... A: Okay, now I really *am* confused. Am I looking for a song called "Bare Naked Ladies" by Brian ... | |
| I've since spotted that you were away when I asked my question. | 12/23/2003 |
| Q: sorry for asking a question (21/12/03) when you were away - it said you were available, but later I ... A: Jon, hello and PLEASE HELP ME. You've just rated my response to your last question, which means ... | |
Musical Composition, Theory and Songwriting
Answers by Expert:
Clare Redfarn
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
All aspects of the academic/theoretical side of music, including harmony, counterpoint, elementary composition, history, harmonic analysis, aural training, sightreading - the lot! Please note I'm not primarily a composer so I can't help with composition beyond what's required for Grade 8 theory or A'level. And don't ask me about psychoacoustics or music psychology as I have no knowledge of, or interest in, either subject.
Experience
52 years as pianist (professional soloist and accompanist); 37 years as harpsichordist (professional soloist and continuist); 10 years as violinist and 6 years as bassoonist (youth orchestras/chamber groups); 39 years as piano teacher, coach in performance/interpretation (all ages, instruments and levels) and private tutor (mainly the old O'level, Grade VI+ ABRSM theory/practical musicianship, A'level and undergraduates).
Organizations
Member of Musicians' Union in Britain 1978-1989 and 1991-2009.
Publications
I've written many programme notes and a few articles for an online magazine. During the '90s I was also a Music Assessor for London Arts and as such regularly wrote critiques of concerts given by recipients of Arts Council funding.
Education/Credentials
MA in European Cultural Policy & Administration (Warwick University, 1994)
B Mus with Honours (London University, 1977)
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Administration (City University, 1982)
Licentiate of Royal Academy of Music in Piano Teaching (1976)
Licentiate of Royal Academy of Music in Harpsichord Teaching (1978)
Studied RAM Junior School (1966-74), then as full-time student (1974-78).
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