Music Theory – NATALYA PLAYS PIANO

Jazz Harmony for Classical Players: What You Actually Need to Know

As a classically trained pianist, jazz improvisation has never really been my forte.I grew up reading everything on the page, interpreting what was written, polishing details – not being handed a chord symbol and told to “just play”. For a long time, jazz harmony felt like a completely different language, one that everyone else seemed

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Why Video Game Music Resonates With So Many People

The Composers and Themes That Made Gaming Soundtracks Iconic Video game music has become one of the most emotionally powerful genres of instrumental music today. From sweeping fantasy scores to quiet, reflective themes, game soundtracks stay with us long after we stop playing. But why does video game music connect so deeply with so many

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Best Podcasts for Pianists, Creatives, and Music Lovers

I’m a huge fan of podcasts. I’ve got one for every mood, topic and occasion. Whether I’m cooking dinner, driving to a gig, or going for a walk – I love to learn new things and get inspired. Over the years, I’ve found a handful of podcasts that keep me motivated as a pianist, feed

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How to Read Lead Sheets and Fake Books: A Pianist’s Guide

Whether you’re sight-reading for a last-minute gig, jamming with a singer, or performing pop songs at a wedding, lead sheets and fake books are a lifesaver for pianists who want flexibility, freedom, and speed. But if you’re used to fully-notated classical scores, lead sheets can look… a little bare. Just a melody? A few chord

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Musicality explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Expression

“But how do I play it musically?” If you’ve ever asked your teacher that question – or been that teacher – you know how slippery musicality can feel. It’s not just about playing the right notes, or even playing them well. It’s about making music speak – telling a story through sound, communicating emotion through

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Perfect Pitch: What It Is, Can You Develop It, and Do You Need It?

May 24, 2025

Aural Skills, Ear Training, Music Education, Music Theory, Musicianship, Piano Technique

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For as long as I can remember, I’ve had perfect pitch – but for much of my early life, I didn’t realize it was anything unusual. I just assumed that everyone could identify notes instantly, recognize keys without a reference, and pick out melodies without too much effort. As a child, I would sit at

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Learn Music by Ear: 6 Steps to Recognizing Chords & Melodies Like a Pro

Have you ever listened to a song and wished you could immediately play it by ear? Training your ears to recognize chords and melodies is one of the most valuable skills a musician can develop. Whether you’re a pianist, singer, or instrumentalist, having a strong ear makes learning music faster and more intuitive. But how

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