October 31, 2024
The legendary bassist on his school-band experiences, his greatest teachers and how his mustache led to the end of his tuba career. Plus: Inside Levin’s BEAT touring rig Around 2019, Tony Levin was deep into another tour with King Crimson, playing some of the most complex and intimidating prog-rock ever recorded. Warming up backstage after […]
October 25, 2024
Terence Blanchard. Credit: Cedric Angeles. Terence Blanchard, Ethan Iverson, Aaron Diehl, Helen Sung, Natalie Tenenbaum and other luminaries talk about the issues surrounding the jazz/classical divide—from technique and theory to conservatory culture and diversity. “I didn’t know you were allowed to play the piano like that.” So recalls the acclaimed jazz pianist and composer […]
The bond between musician and musical instrument is special. Most seasoned players will even describe their instrument as an extension of themselves. However, as you progress, you may find yourself at a crossroads: Do you stick with your trusty companion, or is it time to upgrade to something new? Let’s dive into the importance of […]
October 16, 2024
Classic keyboard parts and solos from the golden age of progressive rock, featuring Rush, Pink Floyd, Yes and more. Robert Moog introduced his signature Moog synthesizer in 1964, five or so years before the Big Bang of progressive rock. But that instrument and that genre were destined to find each other. Both pointed toward a […]
October 11, 2024
Credit: Willa Rohrer. The director of the groundbreaking saxophone ensemble reflects on the teachers who changed his life, his own career as an educator, his Selmer horns and more. Matthew Levy didn’t pick up the saxophone with the intention of pursuing a career in classical music. Growing up in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, Levy […]
October 10, 2024
One of Latin jazz’s greatest bandleaders offers tips for unlocking the foundation of Afro-Caribbean music. Many musicians who play “Latin jazz” or other styles born out of the Afro-Caribbean/Latin American experience grew up with those styles and internalized their rhythms—particularly the core five-stroke pattern known as the clave. They didn’t just learn the music, they […]
October 7, 2024
Essential tips for making the most out of your focused practice time. It’s happened to all of us. You sit down with your instrument with the intention of practicing, but quickly feel overwhelmed by all the choices you have to make. Where do I even start? Am I practicing the right way? What should I […]
Understanding the fundamental maintenance tasks that will help your guitar stay in tune. It’s hard to overstate the importance of having a guitar that consistently plays in tune. Many beginners struggle more than necessary simply because their instrument isn’t set up correctly. Proper tuning and intonation can make the difference between becoming a lifelong guitarist […]
October 2, 2024
Now in its 130th year, the iconic instrument brand has redefined music by balancing craftsmanship and innovation. If you’ve attended a concert, listened to the radio or a streaming service, or watched music videos at any point in the past half-century, you’re no doubt already familiar with Gibson guitars. Whether you’re into jazz, bluegrass, metal […]
September 26, 2024
The Nashville-based Music & Arts instructor, who performs with her sister in the acclaimed classical-country duo Twin Kennedy, reveals her tricks of the songwriting trade. Carli Kennedy started crafting songs before many children have picked out an instrument. “I wrote my first song at 7,” she recalls, “and I’m sure it rhymed, but I’m also […]
