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!

5 Tips on How to Play Viola Better

The viola is a beautiful instrument; I, more than most, should know that. After all, I have been playing viola for four years. Of course, four years isn't that long, especially compared to some people, and though I am by no means a master of my instrument, I do consider myself capable enough to give some tips to beginners.

In fact, even if you have been playing viola for quite a while, you may find some of the following advice helpful to you. And don't feel left out, my fellow orca dorks! As an added bonus, some of these tricks can be not just applied to viola, but to all string instruments in general. But anyway, without further ado, here are five tips to play viola (or any string instrument) better!

Over the years that I've been playing - or rather, studying, which sounds quite a bit fancier - the viola, I have picked up some helpful tips, many of which are from my private lesson teacher, the principal violist of a professional orchestra in my state. I hope he doesn't mind that I share some of this advice with all of you. Also, feel free to leave a comment below for an further explanation of any of the points or for a definition of a music term or phrase.