Where to Buy Used Guitars (and Other Gear + Instruments) Online

I recently was in the market for buying a guitar amplifier and a new electric guitar. Fortunately, in this day and age, buying used gear is easier than ever (and finding a price that's friendly to your bank account is also pretty simple). The online market is large and extensive, so finding what you need is relatively straightforward. There are a couple places that seem to be hubs for activity, and in this post, I'll be discussing those sites, both well-known and obscure. So, let's get started!

How to Read Alto Clef

Just to start this out with a weak beginning, let me say that alto clef is pretty much never used. To my knowledge, the only instrument that utilizes it is viola (AKA the best instrument). However, I guess some non-violists just want to learn alto clef to become a more well-rounded and knowledgeable musician. Alto clef is also really useful for writing down melodies in the lower range of female vocalists, like for verses and such, if you don't want to drown in ledger lines. It can also be used for the upper range of male vocalists. But no matter what your purpose is, learning alto clef is quite simple. Let me show you to this land of violas; I promise it won't hurt (probably).

How to Write Your First Song, Part 2: Song Structure and Form

Welcome to part two of my new (well, old but new) series, How to Write Your First Song! In this addition, we'll be talking about song structure and form of popular music. I'll only be covering the basics, so of course there are many other things relating to song structure and form than are mentioned here. But anyway, let's get started!

New Song: Into the Danger Zone

I welcome thee to the danger zone . . . or my latest song: Into the Danger Zone!

How to Write Your First Song, Part 1: the Basics of Chords (and Some Music Theory)

I began my foray into writing original songs less than a year ago. In this relatively short time, I have learned a LOT about songwriting and music in general. Though I am a classically-trained musician (which sounds very pretentious, though I guess it is), I didn't really know a lot about the structure of pop music, chords, etc. In trying to write songs, I have done lots of research and learning. From this learning, I present to you part one of this newly-created series that features some essential information and tips on writing your first song.

Ballad of the Crystal Ponies Cover + a Mini Update!

Fact #1: this is my first cover of a song actually from the show!
Fact #2: I know it's been forever; I feel like I say that pretty much every time I upload. Before the summer started, I was like "Yes I am going to record and upload so much during the summer!" and then I never did. It didn't help that I wasn't living at home half the time. Oops.

Anyway, now that I've gotten some excuses out, on to some more interesting things!