Monthly Archives: September 2013

Happy Birthday, Matt Fallon!

Happy Birthday to American musician Matt Fallon, best known as Skid Row‘s first lead singer. He also sang lead for Anthrax for some months in late 1984.

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Happy Birthday, Meat Loaf!

Happy Birthday to American musician Meat Loaf, b. 1947, best known for his Bat Out of Hell trilogy. He won a Grammy award for the single “I’d Do Anything for Love, (But I Won’t Do That).” Meat Loaf has also … Continue reading

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Happy Birthday, Olivia Newton-John

Happy Birthday to English-born Australian musician Olivia Newton-John, b. 1948, best known as Sandy Olsson in the film production of the Broadway musical Grease. She has won four Grammy awards and has recorded five number one singles and two number … Continue reading

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Rhythm, Melody, or Technique?

Are you supposed to learn rhythm first? Or the melody? Or are you supposed to use correct fingers and keep good posture? What is the priority? In twelve years of teaching, I have had students approach a new piece of … Continue reading

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Today in Music History, 1988

Today in music history, 1988: American musician Bobby McFerrin’s “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” begins its two-week run as number one on Billboard Hot 100. It is the only a cappella song to claim such an honor. Ever.

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Happy Birthday, Bruce Springsteen!

Happy Birthday to American musician Bruce Springsteen, b. 1949, best known as “The Boss.” He continually works with the E Street Band, and their concerts are usually twice as long as most other artists’ concerts, about four hours. Celebrate his … Continue reading

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Today in Music History, 1936

Today in music history, 1936: Irish musician Martin Fay, best known as fiddler for the folk group The Chieftains, is born in Dublin. He was a founding member of The Chieftains in 1961, although his first passion was classical music. … Continue reading

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Today in Music History, 1983

Today in music history, 1983: American rock band KISS appears on MTV without their trademark make up. Paul Stanley observes, “Taking the make up off doesn’t change how we feel.” “It is a stage manifestation of who we are… an … Continue reading

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Piano Posture, Elbows and Shoulders

Q: What is correct piano posture in regards to wrists and elbows? I understand that the wrists should be straight, but it is difficult for our young child to keep her wrists straight without touching the edge of the piano. … Continue reading

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Today in Music History, 1923

Today in music history, 1923: American musician Hank Williams, best known as a country singer and songwriter, was born in Alabama. He recorded eleven Number One singles on the Billboard Country and Western charts and is considered an influence on … Continue reading

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