Author Archives: Marie

Rhythm, Melody, or Technique?

Posted on September 24, 2013 by Marie

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

Posted on September 24, 2013 by Marie

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!

Posted on September 23, 2013 by Marie

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

Posted on September 19, 2013 by Marie

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

Posted on September 18, 2013 by Marie

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

Posted on September 17, 2013 by Marie

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

Posted on September 17, 2013 by Marie

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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Happy Birthday, Ron Blair

Posted on September 16, 2013 by Marie

Happy Birthday to American musician Ron Blair, b. 1948, best know as bass guitarist for rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.  He left the band in 1982, rejoined them twenty years later to perform for their induction into the Rock … Continue reading →

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Today in Music History, 1819

Posted on September 13, 2013 by Marie

Today in music history, 1819: Romantic era musician Clara Schumann (née Wieck) was born in Leipzig, Germany. She composed many pieces for the piano and violin/piano duets but is best known as a talented pianist who played concerts from memory. … Continue reading →

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Happy Birthday, Neil Peart

Posted on September 12, 2013 by Marie

Happy birthday to Canadian musician Neil Peart, b. 1952, best known as the drummer and lyricist for rock band Rush. His complex drumming and extensive drum solos at live concerts have won him many reader’s poll awards from Modern Drummer … Continue reading →

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