How You Can Determine the Length of a Music Lesson For Your Student

In the world of music lessons, everyone starts at a different level. A few factors determine how long a student's lesson should be.

1. What level is the student? Typically, beginners will have shorter lessons while they practice and build their skills.
2. How long or short is the student's attention span? If they seem bored with the lesson, then at that point they are not learning effectively.
3.  How old is the student? Usually, the older a student is, whether new or experienced, the lesson is over 30 minutes.
4.  How interested is the student in the lesson? The more involved a student is in their music, the longer the lesson may be.

Lessons can be anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or more. Let us help you find the right length for your lesson. Call Matt Burk Music Studio for more information at 469-353-6100.

Music Lesson Frisco TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

How a Music Lesson in Frisco can Help Your Child in Math Class

Math and music may seem like classes on opposite ends of a spectrum, especially from a child's point of view. As it turns out, though, math class and a music lesson aren't all that different. Practicing a beat and rhythm when playing an instrument can help determine patterns in mathematical problems, according to a study co-created by San Francisco State University. This news can be beneficial to many students who want to both pursue music while also keeping up with schoolwork.

A unique experimental music curriculum was given to children and then tested with a math exam. Connections were made to distinguish similarities between fractions and music notes using both music and math information. The method of teaching involved designated parts to a whole, which is a similar concept with both musical notes and mathematical fractions. Students who were given the music-infused lesson scored on average 50 percent higher when solving fractions than their peers who were only taught regular math instruction.

Giving children a lesson in basic math while using music as an example created multiple ways of learning. Regular math classes can make simple concepts difficult, but adding a component to help kids relate has increased test scores dramatically. These results mean that even if your child struggles in math class, scheduling a music lesson in Frisco, TX will help your child gain both music and math skills. With teachers that explain hard concepts in notes instead of numbers, connections may come more quickly than from a standard classroom.

This study has gained popularity in recent years and is already due to be published in the journal Educational Studies in Mathematics. It has additionally been incorporated into individual schools for a decade, reaping positive results. The curriculum is based on a Hungarian approach to music and involves personal associations with musical notes to connect to fractions. When referencing music notes as quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, and beyond, this can be used as math functions to solve problems.

Even those students who had little to no experience with solving fractions and math problems scored as highly as many of their peers with a background with fractions. Not only will this help students understand real life situations that use math, but they will become excited about solving problems. Rote memorization will be replaced with genuine excitement as they have examples of why fractions are important in life. A music school in Frisco may be more than a luxury - it may just be a necessity.

If your child is struggling with fractions, incorporating music into their routine may help. To help your child excel in both music and math, sign up for the best music lessons in Frisco, TX by calling Matt Burk Music Studio at (469) 353-6100.

Music Lesson Frisco TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Help Your Child Continue to Learn After Their Music Lessons Are Over

Playing an instrument can bring a lifetime of excitement to a child, even if their parents are not musically inclined themselves. If you can't hold a tune, though, you can still help you child become the best musician they can be. Learning an instrument is a huge deal, and without the support of a parent, it can be nearly impossible. Some of the best music lessons help your child reach their full potential. Between lessons, though, there are four huge things you can do at home to help your child get excited and passionate about music!

1. Practice every single day.  Jimi Hendrix didn't become a star by practicing once a week - if your child wants to see progress, they need to practice daily. By setting time aside with your son or daughter to allow them to practice their instrument, you're giving your child the encouragement and the space they need to improve on what they have learned from their music lesson. Not only will your child become better, but they'll be excited to know that they already have an audience! When they finally learn their first song, you get to be the first one to hear it.
2. Learn the basics.  You don't have to become a pro to appreciate the progress your child makes, but it helps to learn the fundamentals when it comes to music so you can assist them in their journey. Learning how to read music, taking notes of the instrument your child is using, and asking questions yourself when your son or daughter is at music school can help you pick up an ear for what sounds right. This way, if your child becomes stuck or has difficulty picking up a particular skill, they won't be stranded until their next lesson. It's particularly useful if you can sit in on their music lesson, so you know what their teacher expects for the next lesson.
3. Surround your child with music.  A thirty-minute lesson or one-hour lesson may teach the fundamentals and necessities to become a pro, but finding an environment with the same interests will make learning an instrument a fun experience. Even if you don't play music yourself, taking your child to a music group with friends, going to a concert, or just listening to their favorite albums in the car will remind them that learning an instrument is more than work - it's fun!

The experience of learning an instrument will carry your child through their entire life. Even if you do not play music yourself, there are still ways to instill the love of music to your son or daughter. For the best music schools in Allen, TX, visit Matt Burk Music Studio to start your child on the right track to becoming a rock star. Call (469) 353-6100 1 to learn more.

Music Lessons Allen TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Top 5 Reasons Why a Music Lesson Is Good For Children

Research over the years has shown that learning an instrument benefits kids. Here are five main reasons why it's good for them.

1. Learning an instrument helps brain development. Music can help children develop better math, reading, and memorization skills.
2. Learning music helps children set goals. They develop the skills to pursue and achieve a desired outcome, short and long term.
3. It helps develop self-discipline. Learning music will teach kids how to practice hard and overcome tough obstacles.
4. It helps kids become more independent. Kids will need to make their own, independent choices and learn responsibility in practicing and caring for their instrument.
5. It gives kids the opportunity to express themselves. Learning to play music allows students to be more creative by expressing their emotions.

Call Matt Burk Music Studio today for more information.

Music Lesson Frisco Texas
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Music School Reveals The Truth About Learning Instruments as an Adult

When stepping into a music school, most people expect the majority of pupils to be children or young adults. People over 25 often write themselves off when it comes to learning to play an instrument; “I’m way too old for that,” or “only kids can really learn how to play.” Despite these popular beliefs, studies show that the truth about learning a new instrument is simple: anyone can learn to play any instrument at any age.

So, what is it about our brain that allows us to pick up a new skill, like playing guitar? Well, unlike the brain’s language center, we learn and play or sing music using many parts of our brain. Children’s brains are more malleable, and synapses are constantly connecting. However, adults too can train their brain to learn something new. You can learn an instrument at any age; it just takes practice.

The main difference between learning as a young person and learning as an adult lies in the practice regimen. Adults usually choose to begin learning an instrument with adequate knowledge about how much time and effort it will take. However, they have no one, like parents or teachers, to enforce a regular practice schedule. One advantage of learning an instrument when you are young is the high likelihood that someone will hold you accountable for your level of effort and progress.

On the flip side, adults are often more analytical than young children, an advantage that allows them to more completely comprehend all aspects of a piece before and while they are learning it. Adults do, however, tend to hold themselves to a relatively higher expectation than their younger counterparts. Children are usually more patient and willing to practice the same notes and simple scales over and over, while adults can become quickly frustrated because they enter into the practice expecting to catch on quickly or be skillful right off the bat.

Whether you want to add another instrument to your arsenal, or you’ve never picked one up before, know that your age does not have to stop you from learning a new instrument. More and more music schools around the world are providing lessons for aspiring adult musicians. If you’re thinking about learning an instrument, regardless of your age, visit Matt Burk Music Studio online at https://www.wannalearnmusic.com or give us a call (972) 207-9353.

Music School Frisco TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Top Tips on Practicing with a Metronome During Your Music Lessons

A metronome is a tool that can enhance your music lessons by providing the best tempo for the piece you are playing. It creates a steady sound that enables a musician to keep the proper pace for playing a piece of music. Practicing with a metronome on a regular basis can improve your playing mastery by helping you maintain speed.

Choosing Your Metronome

There are several types of metronomes available, from digital or wind-up models to apps on your phone. Mechanical wind-up metronomes are typically best for musicians who play classical instruments. Digital metronomes offer more features and are generally best for musicians playing more modern pieces of music. Younger musicians may do better with mechanical metronomes as watching the pendulum swing provides a visual cue to the rhythm.

Setting Your Metronome

Once you have decided on the best metronome for your situation, you will need to know how to set it for each piece you are playing. Many digital metronomes offer a "beats per minute" feature for determining the tempo. Select the BPM needed for each piece. On these devices, you will also need to set the volume level. The level should be loud enough to hear but not so loud as to overpower the piece you playing.

Using Your Metronome

Become familiar with the sheet music you are using before start your metronome. Then practice your piece without paying too much attention to the tempo. When you know all of the notes, you can start to focus more on the proper rhythm of the music.

Begin slowly, listening to several beats of your metronome before you start to play. Focus on the areas in your piece that are problematic for you. Every piece of music typically has easier sections and more difficult areas. You may need to practice the more difficult sections of the music first before bringing everything up to tempo.

When you are comfortable with the entire piece, increase the tempo just a bit. It can help to tap your toe to the beat of the metronome. Play through the whole piece until you have mastered that speed. Increase the speed once more, and play until you are comfortable again. Continue this process until you can play the entire piece at the appropriate tempo.

Why is it Important to Practice with a Metronome?

Humans don't naturally keep a constant tempo. Even our heartbeats speed up and slow down. When someone plays a piece of music without a metronome, they will often speed up or slow down slightly and then try to compensate for the changes in tempo. A metronome reduces this tendency to rush or drag. Keeping a constant tempo is particularly important when musicians are playing together. If everyone is playing at their own pace, the group as a whole will be out of time with each other.

Contact Matt Burk Music Studio to schedule your music lessons in the Allen TX area. Call (469) 353-6100 today!

Music Lessons Allen TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

The Ease of Switching Instruments While Taking a Music Lesson

From learning patience and creating beautiful music to improving your overall mood, there are many benefits to taking a music lesson to try out a new instrument. Many students master one instrument quickly or decide that they want to try a different instrument after a few lessons. Fortunately, switching instruments without becoming overwhelmed is possible. Here are a few interesting facts that will help you understand the ease of switching instruments.

Learning the Basics

When learning an instrument, your instructor will teach you the basics of playing music, including reading music and learning rhythm. These notes and rhythms are the building blocks for playing all types of music, so you will not need to learn a new set of skills in that respect when and if you decide to play a different instrument.

It is important to note that this applies to the traditional Western instruments only since many world instruments will require learning additional notes, chords and scales.

Learn and Play Multiples

Many people feel they are unable to play multiple instruments. If you have already mastered one instrument, you can still learn, master, and play another instrument. Even if you decide to pick up a new one, you should never feel the need to stop playing an instrument once you master it.

The joy of learning music is that you can learn, master, and continue playing multiple instruments over your lifetime. Think of it more like adding an instrument to your repertoire, not necessarily "switching."

Face Some Challenges

You should not stress over switching instruments, but you should prepare yourself for a few minor challenges, especially at your first music lesson.

If you are choosing to switch to an instrument in a completely different family, these challenges will be a bit more noticeable. For example, switching from a guitar to drums will require a period of adjustment to become comfortable with the new sitting position and the new role the drums have in an ensemble. You can comfortably play the guitar while holding it either standing up or sitting down while playing the drums will require the use of drumsticks while sitting down primarily. Also, you will switch from playing the melody to playing the beat.

Also, switching from the piano to a wind instrument will have its own unique set of challenges. Your fingers and hands will be used a great deal while playing the piano, but playing a wind instrument, such as a clarinet or flute, will require the use of your respiratory system. You will have to get used to your breath being a vital part of playing music.

Working through the various challenges may seem overwhelming, but remain patient through the process just as you did when learning your first instrument.

If you are considering taking a music lesson to try a new instrument or you are ready to make an instrument switch, contact Matt Burk Music Studio in the Allen, TX area at (469) 353-6100 today.

Music Lesson Allen TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

What to Expect When You Begin to Learn to Play Piano in Allen, TX

If you're about to experience your first piano lesson, you might not know what to expect. Here are some things that you can count on experiencing when you first begin lessons.

You can expect to be a little nervous, but the thing to remember is that you're new. You won't be playing the greats when you first start, so remember this to help relax.

Some questions you might have include questions about practice times. You'll need to know what accessories and books are needed. Ask how the lessons are structured, and what the teacher expects of their students.

Expect to learn some finger exercises, such as the Hanon method, to help finger strength. Call Matt Burk Music studios to learn to play piano in Allen, TX.

Learn to Play Piano Allen TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Top Things Great Music Teachers Include In Their Music Lessons

When choosing a music teacher for yourself or a family member, it’s important to consider the characteristics of successful music lessons. You want a great music teacher, and great music teachers use specific strategies to help their students reach the highest goals possible.

Robert Duke and Amy Simmons studied the pedagogical approaches of a highly-regarded music teacher to determine what made their lessons so successful. They identified several important factors common to all of the approaches offered by the teachers. These factors were divided into three categories: Goals and Expectations, Effecting Change and Conveying Information.

Goals and Expectations

The lessons provided by these teachers were centered around interpretation and expression and were within the skill capabilities of the individual students. While some students required more time to practice fundamentals, they all had the capacity to learn the pieces over time.

The music teachers were able to apply their expertise and experience to unknown pieces of music, enabling them to guide students through the works as if they had earlier experience with them.

A consistent standard of quality was expected of each individual student. If the sound being produced was less than standard, the lesson was halted and that part of the piece was practiced until standards were met.

The teachers had a clear memory of the past lessons they had with students and would make comparisons to those lessons to point out positive and negative issues.

Effecting Change

The individual pieces performed by students were presented from the beginning through to the end. This enabled students to develop a habit of playing music as though each practice was a performance.

The music being played was halted only when a major error was presented. This gave students a truer sense of the sounds of an accurately played performance in its entirety.

The teachers set lesson targets and had their students repeat the target pieces until they were of a performance standard. Achievable areas of improvement were selected, feedback and guidance were offered and students were expected to continue to play until the piece was performed correctly.

Students were allowed to make their own interpretative decisions in a repertoire performance. However, the range of options was limited and determined by the teacher.

Conveying Information

Effective music teachers are able to make consistent, precise discriminations about the performances of their students, teaching the students to independently make similar discriminations. The feedback provided helped students to hone their listening abilities in order to better appreciate the subtle details of their performances. This ability to better discriminate allowed the students to raise their performance standards.

The feedback provided was always given in terms of technique mastery and the music being expressed. Both positive and negative feedback was provided. Positive feedback was intermittent and infrequent but powerful. Negative feedback was more frequent, clear and specific to the performance of each student.

Teachers played examples from the repertoires of the students to model accurate technique and standards and demonstrate crucial points.

For information about highly regarded music lessons in the Frisco, TX, area, call Matt Burk Music Studio at (469) 353-6100 today!

Music Lessons Frisco TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Three Tips on How to Make Your First Music School Lesson Rock

Music students awaiting their first lesson typically experience a variety of different emotions. Although feeling excited usually tops the list, they may also feel a little nervous, intimidated and overwhelmed. Not knowing what awaits them, as well as not being clear about the expectations of music lessons, can have them feeling a little uneasy leading up to the big day. Students can make their first lesson at music school as good as possible by following these tips.

Be Patient  

Unfortunately, you’re probably not going to become a musical superstar after just one lesson. It takes time--and lots of practice—to become proficient. Malcolm Gladwell famously wrote in his book Outliers that it takes 10,000 hours of practice to become an expert in any field. While this has received criticism, it does hone in on the point that the best thing to do before going to your first lesson at music school is to understand that it may take time and arduous practice to become the virtuoso you dream of being.  Realize that a music teacher can only guide you and it is up to you to put in the work and commitment to become the musician you dream of being. Attempting to rush and skip the basics will only hurt you in the end.

Be Open to the Process

You may expect your first lesson to include a serious jam session. The truth is, however, you may not even pick up your instrument until you have a few lessons under your belt. Your instructor will likely teach you how to read music and tell you what certain musical terms mean. They may also teach you in ways you don’t expect. This is why you’ll need to be open to whatever happens when you walk through the door. Just because you aren’t learning in a way you may have anticipated, it doesn’t mean the lesson won’t be beneficial.

Be Confident in Yourself

You may be doubting your skills if you’ve never played a musical instrument before or taken a voice lesson. Your first inclination could be to clam up and not truly engage in the lesson. Acting like this only hurts you. Your teacher wants to help you achieve your musical goals. A lack of confidence can hinder your progress. Sure, you may make mistakes, but everyone does. Your teacher has seen it all and will be there to encourage you every step of the way.

Let Matt Burk Music Studio Give You a Great First Lesson

Matt Burk Music Studio in Frisco, TX, has a team of experienced and dedicated music teachers who want to help you have a great first lesson and musical journey. Contact us today to find out how we can help and what we have to offer by calling (469) 353-6100.

Music School Frisco TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Use the "Simple Playback Method" in Your Music Lessons in Allen, TX

What do you want to get out of your music lessons?  Allen, TX sits close to the vibrant jazz and popular music scenes of Denton, Fort Worth, and Dallas, so you might want to focus on your ear training.

But can you learn to read a chart when you only know how to read note-by-note? Can you make the jump from classical to popular music styles?

You absolutely can -- and you can even do it without spending hours on painstaking interval drills.

We talked to Justen Blackstone, Artist Lecturer at Moravian College and co-founder of Backstage Podcast, to find out.

Use the “Simple Playback Method” in Your Music Lessons in Allen, TX

“Simple playback can be a fantastic way to train the ear of all ages,” said Blackstone. “A teacher can simply make up a melody on the piano and ask the student to play that melody back to them verbatim.”

Justen usually starts with a five note span on the keyboard -- C-G -- and sets progressive levels for his students.

In level one, for instance, he plays a three-note melody between C-G and asks the student to play that melody back. Level two could be a five-note pattern, and he usually progresses with a student all the way up to ten notes.

“These melodies increase in interval difficulty, length, and timing (syncopation, dotted notes, etc.),” Blackstone said. “Once the student has mastered the five-note span, I will then expand the available notes and even add sharps or flats.”

You Don’t Need a Piano to Use the Simple Playback Method

Your music lessons in Allen, TX will have a piano, but what if you don’t have a keyboard at home?

All you have to do is start with Spotify. Find a simple song (it can even be one that you know), and listen to 5-10 seconds of it before pausing; now sing that melody back. Move on to more unfamiliar and difficult songs, and increase the amount of time you go before pausing the song. Just do your best to sing it back correctly.

If you want to keep up your keyboard ear training, download an app like Melody Ear Training. It’s fun, cheap, and will dramatically improve your ear playing.

What About You?

Would you like to incorporate ear training into your music lessons in Allen, TX?  Give Matt Burk Music Studio a call at (469) 353-6100, or visit us online. You’ll improve your practical musicianship, and you'll be jamming at the Scat Lounge in no time.

Music Lessons Allen TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

What You Need to Know Before Your First Beginner Guitar Lesson

Everyone has dreams of becoming a rockstar, but learning to play the guitar can seem like a daunting challenge. By taking a customized beginner guitar lesson in Allen, TX, with Matt Burk Music Studio, learning the instrument can become a reality. Although they can help you with any questions you have, it is helpful to know a few things before your first guitar lesson.

Parts of a guitar:
The three main parts of a guitar are the head, the neck and the body. The head of the guitar has the tuning keys that create the string's sounds. The neck of the guitar contains frets and position markers to help you create certain sounds by making chords. The body holds the sound hole, the pickguard and the bridge that holds the strings in place. A beginner guitar lesson will teach more elaborate technicalities, but knowing the basics of a guitar will help you to progress more quickly.

Types of guitars:
The two main types of acoustic guitars are the steel-string guitar and classical guitar. The steel-strings have thinner necks than classicals and are usually strung with steel strings while the classical guitar has nylon strings. Classical guitars are sometimes called Spanish guitars because they originated in the area of Spain. Electric guitars, twelve-string guitars and bass guitars are also popular instruments, but most guitar lessons for beginners start on an acoustic guitar.

Guitar strings:
The names of guitar string notes are important when learning to tune your guitar. When each string is tuned correctly, the strings should be tuned to E, A, D, G, B and E. This can be remembered easily with the mnemonic saying "every artist does get better eventually." Once you become proficient, the strings may be tuned to different notes for certain songs, but knowing the standard notes are important.

Reading music:
Reading tabs and chords will come in handy when you start playing songs. Though your instructor may teach you this, knowing how to read tabs and chords will speed up your progression and fluency with the guitar. Taking beginner guitar lesson is the best thing you can to do learn the guitar, but learning to read music beforehand will score you points with your instructor and get you closer to nailing that guitar solo.

Taking a beginner guitar lesson in Allen, TX  is the best way to learn how to play the guitar. By taking a few initiatives before showing up for your first lesson, you can impress your instructor and yourself on day one. To schedule your own lesson, call Matt Burk Music Studio at (469) 353-6100.

Beginner Guitar Lesson TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Three Things to Know Before You Learn to Play Drums

Learning an instrument is a hobby that can bring joy to a musician for a lifetime. Like most things, the hardest part of playing the drums is starting the learning process. With studios in the area like Matt Burk Music Studio in Frisco, TX, learning to play the drums becomes easier than you think. Even with lessons, though, it's good to know some basics about drumming before you sit down to play. There are three things you should become familiar with before you stop in for your first drum lesson:

1. Learn how to read music. Drumming requires physical skill but getting to know the notes on paper is a mental exercise that will make learning the drums easier for both you and your instructor. There are books and sources online that teach about the staff, clefs and notes that fit together to become sheet music. The faster you can interpret your sheet music, the better drummer you will become. Plus, if your instructor doesn't have to teach you how to read music, they can spend more time teaching you that drum solo you've always wanted to learn.

2. Practice rhythm. Drumming is a technical skill to hone and isn't something you can learn overnight. Something that will help the learning process, though, is to practice tapping with your hands and learning the rhythm of how to use a drum. Figuring out what a downbeat is, becoming familiar with how you use your hands and maybe even practicing holding drumsticks will all make your music lesson much easier. Practice your rhythm, and you'll be on the fast track to becoming the best drummer in Frisco.

3. Learn the parts of a drums set. The drums involve many different components, and since you'll be spending a lot of time on a drum set during your lesson, it's good to know beforehand what you'll be using. Drum kits can have many parts to them, but most kits almost always have a bass drum, a snare drum and a few tom-toms. Cymbals are also attached to the kit. By knowing what part of the drum set is what, you'll not only impress your instructor, but you'll impress yourself with how quickly you can progress with your music lessons.

With just a bit of research and ambition, your first drum lesson will be much more relaxed and much more fun. To become your own rock star, the best music lessons in Frisco are at Matt Burk Music Studio. Visit https://www.wannalearnmusic.com/ to book your personalized drum lesson with a qualified instructor.

Matt Burk Music Studio  |  Learn To Play Drums TX  |  469-353-6100

Top Three Challenges When Learning How to Play Guitar

When you’re first learning how to play guitar, it’s common to experience set-backs and challenges. After all, you’re trying something new, and chances are, you’re not going to get everything right the first time you pick up your instrument. The important thing to remember, however, is that you’re not alone: everyone has issues when first learning to play, so don’t give up.

Changing Chords

Some chords have your fingers positioned in extremely unnatural poses. Not only are they uncomfortable, but they are also hard to keep. On top of this, many songs have your fingers moving from chord to chord. This means once you think you have this chord down, you’ll have to switch to another, and another, very soon. Although challenging, performing this action is possible with practice. You’ll likely notice that you’ll start to get better bit by bit, and then it will become easy, so don’t give up!

Dead Strings in Chords

There’s nothing more disappointing than getting your fingers in the right spot for a chord, and then hearing dead strings when you strum. A dead string is one that isn’t able to vibrate and therefore, make the sound it is supposed to. You will likely run into this problem if you are either pressing too hard on a string, or you aren’t using the tip of your finger to touch down on the string. Touching a string with your fingertip can present quite a challenge, as you may find it painful and unnatural. With practice, however, your finger will build calluses that make the action more comfortable and easier to perform.

Not Improving Quickly Enough

You want to learn how to play guitar so that you can achieve your rock star status as soon as possible. However, you may find that you’re just not getting the hang of it as quickly as you’d like. The only way to improve is to practice more. Picking up your ax and playing here and there isn’t going to get you the results you’d like. You have to dedicate an ample amount of time to practicing to get the results you desire. There’s no set rule as to how much you should practice, but you can get an idea of what you need to do by consulting with your instructor.

Matt Burk Music Studio Can Help You Become the Guitar Player You’ve Always Dreamed Of

The instructors at Matt Burk Music Studio have the experience and dedication to help elevate their students' skills. They will do whatever they can to help them get to their desired level. Call (469) 353-6100 or visit http://www.wannalearnmusic.com/ to learn how to play guitar in Allen, TX.

How to Play Guitar Allen TX
Matt Burk Music Studio
1701 Legacy Drive, Ste. 150
Frisco, TX 75034
United States
(469) 353-6100

Set Your Tempo!

The dreaded click. My students love when I turn it on. That was sarcasm, if you were unsure. It seems like no one "enjoys" practicing with a metronome. Still, I do like to press the use of it during at-home practice because it helps eliminate rhythmic hiccups and ingrains a more strict sense or "feel" of rhythms when it is not present. So how do you incorporate the metronome into your daily practice?  Turn it on! I know it seems silly, but many of my students simply forget to turn the metronome on when practicing, even when it is sitting right next to their practice area. Some students have expressed a "fear" or dislike of using the metronome because it doesn't seem to help right away. Not being perfectly on with the click can be frustrating for perfectionists but we must remember:  it will take some time getting used to playing alongside a metronome. The more that we use it, the easier it becomes to stay on point.

So now that you're using the metronome whenever you practice, let us talk about setting the correct tempo for practice maximization! Usually your instructor will help with this, either showing you a range in which you can keep the metronome from become a hindrance or giving you exact metronome or tempo markings for the exercise or piece. You want to have it set where you can both play what you need to without mistakes and at a pace where doing so is still a challenge. It is a fine line to walk but it can be achieved through constant use! Set your tempo: use that metronome!

This is just a small example of the many useful musical tools you can learn here at Matt Burk Music Studio. We offer private music lessons for piano, guitar, drums, bass, voice, and songwriting! We encourage you to check out the rest of our website. If you are in the North Dallas area, stop into one of our two convenient locations in Frisco and Allen. Matt Burk Music Studio: Learn, Create, Perform!

Acoustic Versus Electric: Piano

In a continuation of our recent theme, we take a closer look at the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of the electric instruments versus acoustic: piano edition! Of course, many pianists seem to prefer having an acoustic piano either where they live or where they practice. The tone of a well made instrument is unmatched. Hence, when you see performances of famous pianists they are almost always performing on a grand piano in the concert hall. The weight of the keys, the response of the hammers, and the acute precision of the pedals makes the piano ideal for recording and performance. The big drawback: lack of portability. Have you ever moved a piano? I have once. Once. I was lucky to come away with all of my toes still intact. Secondly, a piano must be tuned from time to time by a professional piano tuner. This can prove to be an expensive upkeep.

Which brings us to the electric piano, or keyboard. There are a myriad of electric keyboards, pianos, and synthesizers. The latter of the three is extremely versatile. With presets that range in the thousands, certain synthesizers can emulate pianos through samples and sound (nearly) perfect! But the greatest quality to the electric piano or keyboard is the portability! You can set up and break down in minutes and, while an amplifier or sound system is needed for large performances, many electric pianos are equipped with speakers for intimate settings.

Of course, the thing to remember is to find the right instrument for YOU. Always do your research and if you can, go play the instrument at your local music store! Acoustic versus electric: you decide!

If you or someone you know is interested in learning to play piano or any other instrument, please check out the rest of our website. We also encourage you to stop in to either of our two convenient North Texas locations in Allen and Frisco. We offer private music lessons in piano, guitar, drums, bass, voice, and songwriting! Matt Burk Music Studio: Learn, Create, Perform!

Acoustic Versus Electric: Guitar

Last week we discussed the differences in acoustic and electric drums and what those differences mean when you're looking for the right instrument for you. This week we'll talk a little about guitars. While fundamentally the same, acoustic and electric guitars differ in a few major ways. Of course, the first difference is how they amplify the strings when plucked. Acoustic guitars use a sound box (the body) with a portal beneath the strings to reverberate and "push" the sound. Because of this, the maximum volume of an acoustic guitar can be considered quiet when compared to that of an amplified electric. Many musicians that play "heavier" music such as metal or rock . . . (well any genre outside of electronic music) have utilized the acoustic guitar for this dynamic property (a prime example would be Metallica's "Nothing Else Matters" or CCR's "Who'll Stop The Rain". Acoustic guitars can vary in price but always remember, you always get what you pay for with musical instruments! Go in to your local music store and try out a few to see what body styles and neck styles suit your needs! Which brings us to the electric guitar. With the same 6 strings that we find on the acoustic but the amplification of said strings is where the two really differ. Without going into too much description, the way an electric guitar works is through the magnetic pickups that "transfer" the vibrations into a signal that is then amplified by the, well, amplifier! Electric guitars usually have more "shallow" or thinner necks in general than their acoustic counterparts. This, coupled with "lighter" or thinner gauge strings lends for quick mobility on the fretboard, which some may believe makes electric guitar a bit easier to play. Because electric guitars need amplification to be heard, they are not ideal for travel, but in the right atmosphere (perhaps a rock show?) they are just what the doctor ordered. My doctor recommends high doses of distortion.

Once again I would like to reiterate that both have their advantages and disadvantages depending on what type of music and tone you're looking to produce. Always do your research on brands and styles before buying! You will easily solve the debate for yourself: Acoustic versus Electric, it is up to you!

If you or someone you know is interested in learning to play an instrument, I recommend you check out the rest of our website. We have two convenient locations in Frisco and Allen, Texas too, so please stop by and take a tour! We offer private music lessons for piano, guitar, drums, bass, voice, and songwriting! Matt Burk Music Studio: Learn, Create, Perform!

Practice: It Adds Up!

Here at Matt Burk Music Studio we encourage daily practice for our students and here's why:  it adds up! Keeping rhythms and melodies fresh in the memory will ensure that you can play it correctly when you recall it. Unfortunately, much of the mechanics of music is learned through what is called Rote Learning. This type of memorization is very weak and needs to be repeated and reviewed often. Daily practice, even for just a very short time, helps solidify the actions in the muscle memory. Think about it like this. You once did not know how to tie your shoes and had to be shown. Now, when you tie your laces do you think about it or do you just let the action happen? I bet you will find that it is nearly involuntary once we decide on the action to perform it. Often music students find themselves saying, "I'll just practice twice as much tomorrow".  They may make good on our promise but often the next day comes and they make the same statement. A week later and they're back in lessons wondering where the time went and why forming the  E major chord or playing the groove fills at the same tempo as last lesson is much more difficult than it was a week earlier!

Luckily, this is totally avoidable with small, easily digestible goals. This is one of our core practices at Matt Burk Music Studio. We find music that inspires YOU! We use songs you like, break them down into chunks and help you move through each until you're playing the song! This is just one of our core philosophies: check out the rest on our website here or stop in to one of our locations in both Allen and Frisco, Texas. We offer customized private music lessons for piano, guitar, drums, bass, and vocals.  Matt Burk Music Studio: Learn, Create, Perform!

It is the Little Things

Sometimes I get so wrapped up in the overall picture, I forget about the tiny details. It is those details that turn a "so-so" song into one that catches the attention of the listener. Recently, I've been on a 60's soul kick (big surprise) and I've been breaking down the songs into their instrumental parts to see what makes them tick. I have found that even a seemingly simple riff has more complexity "under the microscope". One great example is Eddie Floyd's "Knock On Wood". The verse at a glance, is an A chord for two measures moving to an E chord for two measures. However, if you listen closely, one finds that not only are we using an inversion of the chords, but nearly all of the strumming is muted. This creates a very "funky" syncopation that makes the rhythms interesting to the ear and move the song forward. Coupled with a solid bass and drum part, the guitar line keeps things tight but leaves enough room for the horn section's lead lines. It makes me think that even the most simplistic song can hold complexities that we may not initially realize. On that note, I return to the idea of "the little things" that can change a regular song into a hit. Perhaps this is something you haven't thought of as a songwriter. We here at Matt Burk Music Studio can open your eyes to the nuances of songwriting that others may overlook. We offer private music lessons in piano, guitar, drums, bass, voice, songwriting, and audio production. Matt Burk Music Studio: Learn, Create, Perform!

\"Knock On Wood\" by Eddie Floyd