The term Indy Artist, coined in the ’80s by the media, is short for ‘Independent Artist’. It describes the band or singer-songwriter who records and releases their own records or albums released under independent labels.
Often times, the Indy Artist writes lyrics that are “rawer” than that of the mainstream.
The “Indy Artist” has come to describe a unique sound, different from the major labels. They often use sounds that are less polished or have a very different way of using their voice.
The Indy Artist frequently uses unconventional time signatures, more chord progressions, or more reverb than a mainstream artist.
Many times they also incorporate unique instruments, such as a washboard, a hurdy-gurdy, Buke and Case, singing saw, bagpipes, autoharp, and more.
Indy Rock
Indy rock began to emerge in the ’80s as a genre of alternative rock. The genre includes Indy pop, lo-fi, as grunge, grunge, punk revival, noise pop, emo, sadcore, post-rock, math rock, and in the UK, Britpop. In the ’90s, some Indy Rock Artists broke into the mainstream music scene. Still, most retain an outsider, underground sound.
Indy Folk
The Indy-folk genre, also born in the ’90s, was a combination of the acoustic guitar sound and folk or classic country music added to the more contemporary sound.
Indy Artist and the Internet
The early 2000s brought change to the music industry with the growing importance of the Internet. Indy Artists began to enjoy commercial success by writing, singing, producing, and releasing their own original songs over the Internet. For example, many Indy Artists acquired large fan-bases or superfans. The Indy Artist will have more opportunities as technology expands.
Music City the place for Indy Artist
Nashville, TN, known as Music City, is receiving an influx of Indy Artists. Some hope of building a traditional music career, looking for fame and fortune. Some Indy Artists just want their music heard.
The diversity among the singers and songwriters is more varied now than ever before. There are some very talented artists in the Nashville music scene. But there are also a lot of mediocre acts. Most artists are hoping to be signed by the music moguls.
You don’t have to be the most talented to be noticed. But, you do have to be able to carry a tune, or write a good song, or play an instrument well.
Online Music Stores
In the last few years, online music stores have exploded onto the internet music scene. Companies such as CD Baby, iTunes, Bandcamp, Spotify, Soundcloud, ReverbNation are giving artists a real chance to be heard. This gives the Indy Artist a chance to make a substantial income from their music.
CD Baby will be hosting the “DIY Musician Conference” in Nashville in August 2018. For four days, Music City will be the hub for the Indy Artist, a different type of musician, the Do It Yourself Musician.
Indy Artists from varied backgrounds with different styles will fill the streets of Music City. This conference is unique in that it is dedicated to musicians of any and all genres who share a common approach to marketing their original music.
“Independent musicians and small boutique labels are one of the fastest-growing segments of the market, and they share a lot of concerns,” explains CD Baby’s Kevin Breuner. “No matter what kind of music you make, no matter where you are in your career, you need similar advice and support, and we program the conference in direct response to the questions and concerns we hear from musicians.”
Retro Music is not necessarily about Babyboomers. It’s a term that seems to be floating around. What does it actually mean? Is there a difference between Retro Music and Modern Retro Music?
Modern Retro Music
Modern Retro Music is music that has been newly created but sounds like it was crafted in a different era.
The younger generation is discovering Retro Music as a new sound. Many younger artists are taking the older styles and adding their own twist making it Modern Retro Music, such as The Pipettes and The Raveonettes. These two bands are very different yet both Retro. The Pipettes give off a vibe that is almost identical to some of the girl bands in the 60s. You can tell by listening to The Raveonettes that they have an abiding love for the Ronettes. The Revivalists, on the other hand, use many different styles in craft their version of Modern Retro Music
Retro Music
Retro music can be songs that you listened to in your youth, times that brought laughter or tears, or even anger. It could be the actual song you heard in the past or a remake, like “I’ve Got My Mind Set on You” by James Ray originally recorded by George Harrison, or the many covers of “I Who Have Nothing” by Ben E. King (1963).
Retro songs can touch you in ways that don’t touch the person next to you. It connects with the feelings of your past. You can relive a moment, a day, an evening, a summer, or even a lifetime. Your connection may be age-dependent, whether it’s the actual song or just the vibe, you could be transported back in time to a specific event where you can relive the emotions of heartbreak, tragedy, or love.
Some of us, in the older generation, are also writing new songs with the flavor we grew up with.
Al Green, Lennon, Cat Stevens, Rolling Stones, Smoky Robinson, Curtis Mayfield, so name a few.
Curtis Mayfield is one of Larry’s all-time favorites from his youth. He was one of the most influential musicians behind soul music. He began as a songwriter, then, created The Impressions, and later went on to achieve success as a solo artist, movie producer, and record label owner.
Larry S. Warfield’s Retro Style
Larry was also influenced by the music greats like Bill Withers, Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Stephen Stills, and Richie Havens.
“They brought an original, creative and engaging new musical interpretation of the human experience.” – Larry S. Warfield
You can hear a similar interpretation of life in Larry’s original songs.
Some of his music has a country flavor. Still, others have a jazzy, pop, or blues feel. He also has a substantial volume of Christian and worship songs. Larry’s songs weave life’s ups and downs into the lyrics that pull on your heartstrings.
His original songs will encourage and inspire while entertaining you.
Larry S. Warfield’s Modern Retro Songs are the perfect mix of catchy 60’s or 70’s vibe, country, and jazz combined with a modern twist! An anomaly that simply just works.
Ben, a better than an average musician, singer-songwriter, had always dreamed of having a music career, performing on stage for thousands of people. Maybe we should say, he always dreamed of being a star, a big-time entertainer. He was doing everything and getting no place with his music career.
Like many other musicians, Ben didn’t handle rejection well. Every time he’d get close enough to see that he might have a chance at a music career, his fear would surface causing him to back down.
After many years of putting his songs on the shelf, Ben decided to take a risk and pitch his songs to some music execs. Living in Southern California provided the opportunity to personally go to Pitch Sessions in Los Angeles. Every week for months, he’d spend an hour or two on the busy freeway to get to the weekly pitch. Every week it went the same.
The Pitch
First of all, the music exec would have the musicians hand in a CD which they played for the whole room. The experts then critiqued the song and handed the CD back. The exec occasionally chose one song for further review. Consequently, Ben’s drive home seemed to get longer and longer.
This went on week after week, month after month. Sometimes, he would get a few encouraging comments, but he never had a song chosen for further review.
For that reason, he stopped going to the Pitch Sessions. Instead, he began sending CDs to different music publishers and entering contests. The Songwriters’ Digest stated that the musician would receive feedback in a few weeks. But weeks passed without a word.
He had almost forgotten the CD he sent to a contest when a return package came in the mail.
Ben hurriedly ripped open the package and unfolded the letter that revealed their analysis with a list of changes that needed to be made. He immediately headed for the studio, convinced they would pick up his song, and give him a recording contract. The wait began again.
Finally, the long-awaited package arrived. Ben knew he had made the exact requested changes. With shaky hands, he opened the package and grabbed the letter that would reveal his next step to stardom. He knew there was a contract waiting for him. His music career was about to launch.
He slowly lowered himself to the sofa flipping the letter over to see the back. He looked up at his wife standing in the doorway wiping her hands on a dishtowel.
She took a step closer, “Well?”
He sat stunned, then held the letter up for her to see.
Music Career Fades From View
“Two lines? What does it say?” she asked.
He read it out loud, “Dear Ben, Thank you for submitting your song for evaluation. We regret to inform you that we will not be able to use your song.”
“That’s it?” she asked.
He looked at her with a blank stare. Another roadblock – the end of a dream.
“That’s it? That’s all there is?” she said. “After two years of going back and forth to LA and sending out CDs, that’s all there is? There’s got to be something else you can do. There’s gotta be.”
She slouched on the couch beside him.
“From everything they’ve said at the pitches this is it. If they don’t pick you up, you might as well give up or just keep going to pitches and sending in songs.”
Both were quiet for a long time.
Ben began pacing, dragging his fingers through his hair, “I guess it’s over. I’ve done everything they told me to do.”
“There has to be another way,” she said grabbing her phone. “What’s a DIY Musician?”
“DIY?” he said laughing. “DIY is Do It Yourself, as a handyman.”
They both stopped and looked at each other. Maybe there is away.
Will taking charge of your own career, DIY style, turn you into a well-paid music star overnight?
Probably not. Yet, it is possible. It takes a lot of motivation and sticktoitiveness. Most people don’t have that much, do you?
We’re going to look at two current musical stars. One gained his stardom online before landing a contract. The other traveled the traditional path with a contract. We will also recap what it takes, on a personal level, to achieve stardom.
Ed Sheeran
According to Nielsen’s rating, Ed Sheeran is in the top 10 musicians in 2018. According to Biography.com, Ed started playing the guitar at a very early age. When he was 11, he met Damien Rice backstage at a Rice concert. Damien advised him to begin writing his own music. That night he wrote several songs, one entitled “Typical Average Teen.” At age 14, Sheeran, with a backpack of clothes in one hand and his guitar in the other, headed for London to gig for the summer.
At age 16 he moved to London, he began singing on the local circuit, while recording his music. He began to tour relentlessly, sleeping on fans’ sofas every night after his gigs. His first album, self-titled, was released in 2006 and a second album, Want Some, in 2007. It wasn’t long until Ed was opening for more established acts. In 2009 he performed more than 300+ live shows while recording his third album, You Need Me.
In 2010 Sheeran’s career took a big leap online. He knew how to use online media to his advantage by posting videos of his performances. For example, a rapper saw his videos and asked Sheeran to go on tour with him as his opening act, resulting in an even bigger online fanbase. Ed also produced 3 more albums in 2010.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift, one of the worlds leading contemporary recording artists, is also in the top 10 musicians in 2018. At age nine, Swift became interested in musical theater and performed in four Berks Youth Theatre Academy productions. She also traveled regularly to New York City for vocal and acting lessons. At age 11, Swift and her mother went to Nashville and pitched cover songs to music producers but was rejected.
When Taylor was 12 she learned to play the guitar and began writing her own songs. At age 14, she moved to Nashville to pursue a music career. In Nashville, she began working with Music Row songwriters. She began meeting with one, Liz Rose, on a regular basis. Rose commented the sessions were “some of the easiest I’ve ever done. Basically, I was just her editor. She’d write about what happened in school that day. She had such a clear vision of what she was trying to say. And she’d come in with the most incredible hooks”. Taylor was the youngest ever to sign with Sony/ATV Music publishing house. Her self-titled debut album was released in 2006.
Different Paths To The Same End – Music Star
Let’s do a little recap. In comparison, both artists started working on their careers at about the same age. They both have arrived as well-paid superstars.
Taylor Swift had the backing of professional lessons and participating in musicals from a very early age. Her family moved to Nashville to give her the opportunities provided in music city.
Ed Sheeran, with a backpack thrown over one shoulder and his guitar case in hand, set out for London to dip his toe in the water to see if he could get any interest in his music. At age 16 he was gigging in London on almost a nightly basis, sleeping on fan’s sofas.
Taylor got the attention of the songwriters on Music Row, which, I’m sure, gave her a substantial leg-up in the music business.
Sheeran got his biggest break in his music career by putting videos of his performances online and opening for more established musicians.
Today in the Music Industry
The Music Industry in 2018 has changed substantially. There are hundreds of musicians in Nashville and LA gigging on a nightly basis trying to get signed as the next big star in the making. The Music Industry is being very picky. The recording company puts a lot of money upfront to launch a musician into stardom. If you listen to American Idol, America’s Got Talent, and The Voice you’ll hear many stories about a musician getting a recording contract, but for one reason or another, it never comes to fruition.
I met a musician who plays on a regular basis in restaurants and bars around Knoxville, TN. He’s really good. He had a recording contract in Nashville years ago. But, before his album was finished his agent died, which ended the contract. Now years later, he’s still gigging on a weekly basis to make a little extra cash.
Noah Guthrie, who competed on Americas Got Talent in 2018, performed in the television cast of Glee, until the show closed in 2015. Now Guthrie is starting over. But, with 400k+ fans from America’s Got Talent, Guthrie is taking his music online. Check out his Facebook page.
Making it as a Musician Today
Above I mentioned that to succeed as a musician in today’s world you must have Motivation and Sticktoitiveness.
Motivation: the state or condition of being motivated or having a strong reason to act or accomplish something.
Both Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift had the motivation to succeed in the music industry. Their minds were set at an early age to succeed as a singer/songwriter. In all I’ve read about both artists, their minds never wavered about what they wanted in life. Their goals were firmly set. I didn’t read anything about a time when either of them decided to forget music and do something different.
Sticktoitiveness: meaning dogged perseverance, tenacity, holding fast.
Both Sheeran and Swift held fast to their goals, of being a musician. The gentleman in Knoxville who still plays on a nightly or weekly basis and Noah Guthrie are still holding fast.
For many musicians, though, life has gotten in the way and the music has fallen by the wayside, but the desire never goes away.
Others may feel they aren’t good enough so why try.
Some musicians feel they’re too old and the music becomes just a hobby or something they do in their community or church.
It’s not too late
Consequently, the gentleman mentioned above is older and still gigs, but hasn’t become a star. For the older musicians, remember, the largest population is the Baby Boomers who still like their music.
Here are a few basic steps that we will be expounding on in later posts.
1. Hone your craft. May your music as good as you can possibly make it – practice.
2. Record your songs. If you perform video your performances.
3. Get a website and logins on all social media platforms. If you don’t know how to create your own website, get help.
4. Do like Ed Sheeran did, put your videos online. Use Social Media Marketing to tell others about your music.
Are you motivated? Do you want to get your music heard? Do you still have the sticktoitiveness to make it happen? Then let’s do it!!!
The Big Baby Taylor is a good beginner Acoustic Guitar. Taylor Guitars, one of the largest acoustic guitar manufacturers in the United States, is located in El Cajon, California. They specialize in acoustic guitars in a variety of different sizes, plus semi-hollow body electric guitars. Their lower priced guitars, the Baby Taylor and Big Baby Taylor acoustic guitars are both made just over the border near Tecate, Mexico.
The Big Baby Taylor Guitar (BBT) is one of the top travel acoustic guitars on the market today. It is portable, playable, and affordable. It’s styled after the bigger dreadnoughts, though, size-wise, it’s between the Baby Taylor and the full-size dreadnoughts, making it perfect for travel, while producing more volume and bass response than other travel acoustic guitars. Because of the size and structure it is good for a beginner acoustic guitar/
Body and Neck of the Acoustic Guitars
Taylor has a unique neck construction, a bolt-on neck, that was patented in 1999 called the NT (new technology) neck. It is different from other acoustic guitars in that the neck consists of one continuous piece of wood all the way to the 19th fret to support the fretboard.
The body on the Big Baby Taylor is unique in that it has a 15/16th-size non-cutaway dreadnought shape, with a full 4” body depth and a scale length of 25.5”. Thus, you get a acoustic guitar that is smaller than a dreadnought but with similar projection and richness to the dreadnought sound.
When playing the BBT, you can tell it’s smaller, but with the feel of a basic acoustic guitar. The tuners are also the same as a basic acoustic guitar with comparable action. The differences aren’t enough to trip you up.
The construction of tonewoods gives the look and feel of quality that the Taylor is known for. The top is made from solid Sitka spruce with laminated sapele for the back and sides with a matte finish. It also includes a single ring rosette and tortoiseshell pickguard which enhance the refined look.
The slim neck is constructed of solid sapele, with a genuine African ebony fretboard with 20 frets and simple dot inlays.
A set of chrome die-cast tuners on the Taylor-branded head is a complement to the Big Baby Taylor. Just below the head is a Nubone nut which is similar in consistency to TUSQ. At the other end, the Micarta saddle sits on the African ebony bridge.
Sound
The original Baby Taylor has the traditional small acoustic guitar sound, but the Big Baby Taylor, which is closer to a full-size body depth yields plenty of projection, resonance, and sustain.
The sound is definitely not an SJ200 or one of the other dreadnoughts. It does not have the jumbo body sound, but surprisingly it has a fairly loud sound for the size. If you are looking for an acoustic guitar with a full sound but small enough to travel, the BBT is the acoustic guitar you are looking for.
The intonation of many of the smaller guitars gets a bit quirky, but the intonation in the Big Baby Taylor is great. They have compensated for the intonation with the arched back, which gives strength and a fuller tone. The B string is also set back just a little to help with the intonation. The size and sound makes the BBT a very good beginning acoustic guitar, especially for older beginners.
Conclusion
The Big Baby Taylor Acoustic Guitars are well suited as a travel acoustic guitar, but because of its larger size, is not limited to a travel guitar or for those with smaller hands. It is perfect for the older beginner. It has a bright, crisp sound with enough natural projection for strumming, flat-picking, or fingerpicking.
It is shipped with a deluxe stylish Taylor gig bag that fits snuggly over the guitar for protection.
Features
Body
Body type: Dreadnought 15/16th-Scale
Cutaway: No
Top wood: Solid Sitka Spruce
Back & sides: Layered Walnut
Bracing pattern: Taylor Standard Big Baby X-Bracing
Body finish: Satin Varnish
Orientation: Right-Handed
Neck
Neck shape: Taylor Standard Big Baby Profile
Nut width: 1 11/16″ (42.8mm)
Fingerboard: Genuine West African Ebony
Neck wood: Hard Rock Maple
Scale length: 25-1/2″
Number of frets: 20
Neck finish: Satin Varnish
Electronics
Pickup/preamp: ES-B
Brand: Taylor
Configuration: Under-Saddle Piezo
Preamp EQ: Volume and Tone
Feedback filter: No
Tuner: Yes
Other
Headstock overlay: Copafera
Tuning machines: Chrome Big Baby Tuners and Buttons
The Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar GPC-16E, first introduced at Nashville NAMM 2019, is an exciting addition to the redesigned 16 Series guitars. It is a 25.4” scale length, Grand Performance acoustic-electric guitar great, for the guitarist who wants the warm, full tone with robust projection.
All Music Things - Martin Acoustic Electric Guitar
Body and Neck
The Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar GPC-16E is an American-made Martin guitar crafted with satin-finished East Indian Rosewood back and sides and a Sitka Spruce top. Even with its solid wood construction, it is more affordable than some of the other Martin guitars, such as the D18 or D28.
The 14-fret Grand Performance has a thinner 000 depth, which provides a satisfying body resonance and fuller bass tones.
The cutaway model allows easy access to the higher register. The high-performance neck taper, with bold herringbone rosettes, makes for easy playability up and down the fretboard, great for fingerpicking or strumming, live or unplugged.
The model number GP tells us that the guitar is a Grand Performance body. This body shape has been in Martin’s lineup for a number of years and is similar to a Taylor Grand Auditorium, which is Taylor’s most popular and versatile body shape. Both mid-size models blend some of the characteristics found in their small body guitars with those of the larger dreadnoughts for a more versatile guitar for the modern guitarist.
Hardware
The GPC-16E comes equipped with factory-installed Fishman® Matrix VT Enhance electronics.
The Enhance feature also adds an output and sensitivity boost, perfect for those with a percussive touch.
The battery box is located between the endpin and 1/4″ jack so replacements do not require removal of the strings.
The GPC-16E comes strung with Authentic Acoustic Lifespan® 2.0 light gauge strings.
Instead of having a cutout in the side of the guitar for the controls, like some guitars, the Fishman® Matrix VT controls are right at your fingertips in the soundhole. This includes the volume and tone controls (VT) in the upper part of the soundhole and the Enhance control (a bridge plate transducer) in the lower part of the soundhole.
Sound
The East Indian Rosewood back and sides create a resonant sound with deep rich bass and bell-like trebles and excellent note definition. Whereas, the Sitka Spruce top yields a balanced tone and good projection.
The volume potential is not what you would expect from a dreadnought or a Jumbo guitar, but you can expect to get a lot of volume from the GPC-16E when you really dig into it.
If you play with a light to medium touch it is going to be louder than the bigger body guitars because you don’t have to expend as much energy to get the top moving, a benefit of a smaller body guitar.
Conclusion
The Martin GPC-16E Rosewood acoustic-electric guitar has a beautiful tone that complements the human voice of the performing guitarist, yet is perfect as a solo instrument or for recording tracks. It is ideal for the player who plugs in or plays at home, with the comfort of a slightly smaller guitar but with an exceptional tone.
It is also available in the left-handed model.
Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar GPC-16E
Features
Body Body type: Grand Performance Cutaway: Yes Top wood: Sitka Spruce Back & sides: East Indian Rosewood Bracing pattern: Forward shifted X Top finish: Gloss Body finish: Satin Orientation: Right-handed
Neck Neck shape: Modified Low Oval with High-Performance Taper Nut width: 1.75 in. (44.45 mm) Fingerboard: Ebony Neck wood: Select Hardwood Scale length: 25.4 in. Number of frets: 20 Neck finish: Satin
Electronics Pickup/preamp: Yes Brand: Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 Configuration: Under saddle transducer Preamp EQ: 2-band Feedback filter: No Tuner: No
Other Headstock overlay: East Indian Rosewood Tuning machines: Nickel Open Gear Bridge: Ebony Saddle: Compensated White Tusq Nut: Bone Number of strings: 6-string Recommended Strings: Authentic Acoustic -Lifespan 2.0 – Light (MA540T) Special features: Inlays Case: Softshell Accessories: None Country of origin: United States
Sources: Wikipedia (January 5, 2019) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dreadnought_(guitar_type) Graph Tech TUSQ Martin-style saddle. Retrieved from Sweetwater.com Retrieved from Musiciansfriend.com https://www.martinguitar.com/guitars/16-series/gpc-16e/ https://www.sweetwater.com/store/search.php?s=Martin+GPC-16E http://onemanz.com/guitar/2019-martin-models-review-16-series-all-of-them/
The Martin Acoustic Electric guitar D-16, a Martin Dreadnought, is made in Nazareth, PA, not in Mexico. It is made from all solid tonewood. and contains no laminates. It also uses all steel instead of nylon strings.
This Martin 16 Series Dreadnought is crafted with satin-finished ovangkol back and sides which helps with the resonant sound giving deep bass and rich overtones. Ovangkol is a special wood that can vary both in color and grain complexity giving a unique look. This model includes a mahogany burst Sitka spruce gloss top for balanced tone and projection and a high-performance neck taper for ease of playability up and down the fretboard. The D-16E comes equipped with Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 electronics. Strung with Authentic Acoustic Lifespan® 2.0 light gauge strings and soft-shell case. Includes soft shell c
The Little Martin Acoustic Guitar, LX1R and LX1RE, their smallest travel guitar, is big on tone, quality, and versatility. If you’re looking for a quality acoustic guitar for a child or an adult with small hands, the Martin LX1 should be at the top of your list. It is the best in terms of quality, sound, and feel. For an authentic Made in Mexico Martin, it is surprisingly affordable.
Body & Neck
The LX1R has a smaller scale length, 23 inches, which is actually about two inches shorter. That means the frets are closer together, perfect for the smaller hand. The smaller size also makes this guitar perfect for travel. The new LX1R with a hand-rubbed solid Sitka Spruce top and mahogany high-pressure laminate back and sides features the same great sound you will find in the top-of-the-line Martins. The neck is made of rust birch laminate creating a very interesting pattern and feel. Richlite fingerboard and bridge make this little guitar sturdy for travel under different weather conditions. This newest addition to the Martin family is built with the same quality Martin craftsmanship with an emphasis on producing a great sound in a small guitar, not like some of the student guitars on the market.
Hardware
These LX1R and LX1RE Little Martins are strictly acoustic with no electronics. See below for more on the LX1RE. Both Little Martins features a set of quality Martin-sealed chrome tuners. As with the other Martin tuners, they are smooth and easy to use while holding their tuning well. You will also find that it comes equipped with a TUSQ nut and compensated saddle, a Richlite bridge, and strung with a set of Martin SP strings.
Sound
The Little Martin is durable, easy to play, and stays in tune. You might ask about the sound. Truthfully, it doesn’t have the full-rich sound of the Martin dreadnoughts, but it wasn’t designed to. However, it’s a perfect “pick up and play” guitar that you can take anywhere. It’s great for practice, jamming at home, taking on the road, or around a campfire. While the Little Martin is Martin’s smallest guitar, it sounds well-balanced in tone and has that satisfying warmth that you’ve learned to count on from a quality built Martin.
LX1RE, The Electric Model
You get the same compact and affordability of the LX1R, but with the addition of a Fishman Sonitone pickup mic system, which is great for plugging in to quickly amplify your sound.
Conclusion
Straight out of the box, the Little Martin comes with a padded gigbag made of a tough ballistic cloth exterior, plush interior, backpack straps, and a front zipper compartment and fits over the guitar like a glove.
The Best Way To Learn Piano method works with all subjects It has proven to be very beneficial
If you’ve seen some of the pianists online you’ve probably thought, “It must have taken years of practice to be that good.”
With some of us, it has taken years. I started piano lessons at age four at the insistence of my mother because I was trying to play by ear. Back then, no I’m not going to say how many years, the only people who played by ear were rock ’n rollers. My mother wanted a classically trained pianist. As I got older I wanted to be one of the rock ‘n rollers.
Now, as with the guitar lessons, a high percentage of piano lessons are online using video lessons. If you were classically trained, you may be like me, wondering how a person could possibly learn to play the piano online.
Photo by August de Richelieu from Pexels
Online Learning
In today’s world of the Covid Pandemic, we are bombarded with news about the pros and cons of online learning. Even older kids are having problems. My grandson, who is in the 8th grade and a straight “A” student, says it’s difficult.
“Why is it so hard,” I questioned so I started researching.
In my research listed below, I discovered the answer. Video learning is the fastest and best way to learn, but these kids are having problems learning online with videos.
The answer is simple. They are giving the kids too much information at once. In online music lessons, the students are given “bite-sized” chunks of information at a time. The school kids are given a full lesson to wade through on their own. Read my research below.
Piano Lessons
Image by Bruno Germany from Pixabay
PianoForAllclaims their students see results quickly. Their claim to fame is, “Play first, ask questions later,” which is similar to the guitar lessons we promote. This approach really works. In both the piano and guitar lessons you will be up playing quickly without struggling with all the music theory, as so many of us did in years past.
PianoForAll has taught over 250,000 students using a chord-based system. The creator Robin Hall says “that his e-book course will teach you to play by ear, improvise, create compositions, and then eventually read piano sheet music.”
Each lesson is strategically designed to take you from one skill to the next in a short amount of time using “bite-sized” lessons.
One of the main comments about PianoForAll is that the video and audio lessons open on the lesson page the student is working on. You don’t have to go from book to video. Everything is coordinated to the exact page.
One-On-One Lessons
An important factor in the online lessons’ success rate is the video and the video player. With one-on-one lessons, the teacher
Photo by Any Lane from Pexels
goes over the material with you then you go home and practice.
When I was learning to play the piano there were many lessons I didn’t get the first time through. Some lessons took several weeks before I got it right.
In one-on-one lessons, if the student really isn’t paying attention or doesn’t understand what is being taught, it could take several weeks before they master the lesson.
With video lessons, everything is demonstrated so the student can see exactly what the teacher is doing and how to do it. The student can take it slow and repeat as many times as necessary to master the lesson. The lessons are fun because they are playing songs.
Scientific Reasons Why Videos Connect Better
Photo by Soundtrap on Unsplash
This research applies to any video but is very beneficial in video learning.
From the moment the first image hits the student’s retina to the last scene, different types of chemical reactions are triggered in the brain and body.
The content, lesson in this situation, is experienced in a very different way than it would be experienced in text or one-on-one instruction from a teacher. This applies to all music instruction.
Memory Storage. Visual images are stored in “long term” storage rather than short-term memory. This enables the material to stick with the viewer for a longer period of time.
Processing Speed. Visuals process much faster and last longer in the brain. In fact, they process 60,000 times faster than text. Yet, you don’t want to push the brain too fast. That’s why the video lessons take small “bite-sized” chunks of information that can be processed speedily, yet thoroughly.
Processing Location. Visual information is processed in the brain’s medial temporal lobe, the same place where emotions are processed. This gives the student an emotional connection to the lessons and music they are practicing.
Great Connectivity. They say that 40% of nerve fibers going to the brain are connected to the retina.
Visual Learning. Thus, 90% of the information going to our brains comes in through the eyes. That leaves only 10% of the information coming from other parts of the body. It’s estimated that 65% of people are considered visual learners. This is why online music lessons are so effective and communicate at a much quicker pace than one-on-one learning.
Keeping Focus. One reason why each lesson only covers a “bite-sized” chunk of information is so the student can stay focused on that one particular part of the lesson and learn it well. When several concepts are packed into one lesson the student’s focus is spread too thin, as in the current online school lessons
Why PianoForAll?
There are many piano lessons advertised on the internet, both online and in-person lessons. All claim they have the best method, but some stand out above the others.
PianoForAll starts with the basics. By the time you get to the end of the course you have learned how to play classical pieces and actually understand the music and the theory.
They also teach a wide variety of different genres of music. Their method of teaching basic chords is by playing simple versions of popular songs. This makes practicing much more fun. When is a person is having fun they will stick with it longer and learn faster.
“Hi Robin, Never thought I would say this I thought I had tried every method when it came to not only learning to play the piano but understanding the method. I am truly amazed at the progress I have made in THREE DAYS !!!!
I have the benefit of being able to play but never to the standard I wanted and trying so hard to find that elusive sound, I have spent many hundreds of pounds and a lot of time with scales and all this entails and progress was so slow but I would not give up, it turned out to be very challenging and at times it felt like a battle which has gone on for ten years.
I read the reviews on your website and was very dubious as all this seemed too good to be true and claims made seemed very similar to so many others I had read and tried, but I did buy and your system just blew me away and I have been glued to my piano since downloading the book. Read More
What’s Included
With a one-time purchase, you get nine e-books to download. These books take you through a variety of styles with chords, tunes, and exercises teaching you enough theory to be able to play the songs comfortably.
There are 200 video lessons in all, each with a different aspect of piano playing. The video lessons are embedded in the e-books allowing the written page to come up at the same time as the video lesson.
The instructor plays the lesson on a lower keyboard while an animated version is played above so that it is very clear which keys to play.
For audio learners, there are 500 audio tunes and exercises. This also helps with learning to play by ear.
I CAN CONFIDENTLY SAY THIS IS THE BEST TUTOR BOOK I HAVE EVER COME ACROSS Hi, I just wanted to say thank you for the fantastic Piano Tutor Books. I am nearing the end of the first book and can now confidently say this is the best tutor book I have ever come across. I find your method of teaching piano from a rhythm standpoint very helpful. I have been playing guitar for some years and as a result, I have been able to relate really well to your method.
I found with the standard way of learning Piano from other books, that I was struggling from the start. To use the guitar analogy it would be like trying to play like Eric Clapton from day one. Using your method, I found that I could gain pleasure from playing a backing rhythm almost immediately, just like strumming a song on the guitar. Once again many thanks.
PianoForAll does make some big promises. If you are motivated, the course may be just what you need. As with anything, do your research first so you understand what the course will and will not teach.
The course does help you reach your musical goals, but it will not prepare a student for further education in advanced classical music.
The course will prepare you to play in a band, be able to play requests, or just play for your own enjoyment. It will also give you the basics for exploring other types of music.
You will be able to understand chords, chord progressions, keys, and the structure of music.
You get it in three formats- written text, audio, and video format to make it easier for you to consume the content.
It has been proven.
Dena WarfieldWriter & Classical Musician: Using faith in God to weave truth into
stories & articles that help with personal struggles. medium.com/@denawarfield/follow,
DenaWarfield.com
You will find that how to start a music career today is different. It can still be done, but it does require a lot of work and thinking outside the box.
Ben, a better than an average musician, singer-songwriter, had always dreamed of having a music career, performing on stage for thousands of people. Maybe we should say, he always dreamed of being a star, a big-time entertainer. He was doing everything and getting no place with his music career.
Like many other musicians, Ben didn’t handle rejection well. Every time he’d get close enough to see that he might have a chance at a music career, his fear and sense of rejection would surface causing him to back down.
After many years of putting his songs on the shelf, Ben decided to take a risk and pitch his songs to some music execs. Living in Southern California provided the opportunity to personally go to Pitch Sessions in Los Angeles. Every week for months, he’d spend an hour or two on the busy freeway to get to the weekly pitch. Every week it went the same.
Ben was positive he would have a record deal soon. He just knew he was on his way to stardom.
The Pitch
Image by Markus Krebs from Pixabay
In days past, there were many like Ben. Songwriters and musicians who thought if they could just get their music before the right person they could launch their successful music careers.
The music moguls would post a time and place where singer/songwriters and musicians could pitch their music.
The musician would walk and hand their precious CD to the music mogul’s assistant who would play the CD for the whole room. The music exec would write out a simple critique, present it to everyone in the room, then hand it and the CD back.
Occasionally, a song would be taken back with the music exec to be reviewed later. Rarely, would you be told ahead of time what the music exec was looking for.
This process would go on week after week and month after month.
Ben and most others never really got a chance. Their music was not picked up or if it was, it was never used.
That Was Then – This Is Now
Photo by Tallie Robinson on Unsplash
As you well know, music is around us all the time. Every commercial on television or radio is accompanied by music.
I noticed the other day when I pulled up to Walmart that music was playing outside in the parking lot for customers coming and going. Why?
Music sets a person’s mood. Think about it. Music can make a person excited. It can trigger someone to be more aggressive or agitated. Music can also be calming, helping a person relax and de-stress after a hard day. Music allows us to feel and experience all emotions.
In the case of music outside Walmart, they were playing lively, fun retro music that got the customers prepared to have a fun shopping experience.
Music is mentally stimulating. For older adults, it can stimulate favorite memories of when they were teenagers or young adults. When my husband, Larry Warfield, hears certain songs from the past he begins singing them. Believe it or not, I think he knows all the words to all the songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. It’s amazing. I recognize the melodies and some of the words. He can actually sing them.
The melodies, harmonies, color of the sounds, the activity of the song help us to get lost in the music.
The Pitch Today
With all the music around us, you would think that it would be easier to get your songs published or used in some way.
Unfortunately, that is not the case. You still have to pitch your music to the powers that be. In days passed, you would take one song in to have it reviewed. Danny Berrios, Creative Manager, A&R at Downtown Music Publishing Group stated, “I think a good number of songs for a writer to play in a meeting would be three to five. As far as when I pitch—I try to stick to around five, give or take a couple.”
It also seems like you don’t pitch directly to a music mogul exec, but to an A&R rep, who then pitches your music to the music companies. Taxi (Taxi.com) is an example of an A&R music placement service company that pitches your music for you.
A&R Services Help You Start A Music Career
Taxi, founded in 1992 by Michael Laskow, specializes in soliciting music for recording artists and companies needing music for commercials, movies, television, or anyone else needing music. They then become the middleman. Yes, there is a $300 fee (unless it’s on sale like it is now) to even pitch your music to Taxi.
The staff at Taxi, then review the submission to see if it is suitable for the requests made by the companies. You, as the artist, always receive a constructive review back from Taxi.
If Taxi submits your song to a person or company and they chose to use your song, the company or artist will get in touch with you directly.
Taxi publishes a list of several hundred song placement opportunities every year. If you look at Taxi’s listings you will notice that they do not reveal who the artist or company. Some people try to bypass Taxi and go directly to artists or companies needing music, but it is much harder today because of all the people writing music.
You can bypass an A&R middleman by sending your CD to other companies, but you will need to follow their guidelines if you want your music heard. Companies have been known to put submissions into the circular file (the trash) if guidelines are not followed.
Pitching To Publishers
There are several websites that give you information about submitting songs to music moguls. For example, https://www.texascountrymusicchart.com/music-submission has a form to be filled out to be submitted with your song submission. Here’s a brief list:
Make sure your song fits closely with what the artist or company is looking for.
It must sound professional; otherwise, it probably will get the circular file.
Keep your submissions to 1 or 2 songs. Do not send in 20 songs. They won’t listen.
Create a professional-looking CD label – NO handwritten labels.
If you’ve never had a song picked up your chances are slim, so go for a less known artist.
Never pitch unsolicited music to artists or publishers.
Don’t continuously harass the publisher or artist. Mail or drop-off the CD. If you have followed the guidelines they will let you know. Often they ask for an addressed return envelope. Don’t email or call them. If they are interested they will get in touch with you.
No name dropping.
No complaining or whining to those you are pitching to.
A MUST – make sure your song is the best it can be.
Starting A Music Career Has Changed
I just picked up a book from Amazon entitled, “Stop Selling Music: Career Changing Lessons For Musicians,” by Damian Keyes, DK Publishing.
Damian Keyes, a Musician, Educator, and award-winning Entrepreneur has always been on the cutting edge in the music industry. People who have worked with Damian state that he is a solid, straight-talking, down-to-earth guy with a wealth of information about the music industry. He is willing to pass his wealth of information along to the struggling musician to help them succeed.
Damian states that back in the day it was possible to actually make a living selling physical copies of your music. You would gig and tour and sell CDs. It was possible then. In those days if people liked what they heard they would buy your CD. They may not ever play it, putting it away in a safe place as a memento of an awesome experience or evening out.
Everything Is Different Now
Photo by William Iven on Unsplash
Wow!!! How things ever changed, especially with Covid raking havoc world-wide.
Remember when all this started back in March 2020. Restaurants and bars were shut down. Concerts were canceled. Tours were canceled. Music shut down.
I remember, one of the first scenes on the nightly news was musicians playing from their balconies or in their driveways.
Damian states the change began back before Covid in 1999 when Napster allowed people to illegally download music. Then Spotify and Apple took music listening to the digital realm. Buying physical CDs soon became passé.
It seems that people who buy CDs or vinyl records are collectors.
Today, people think that spending money on music is paying $10 per month for streaming on Spotify or another streaming service. If they don’t mind the ads, they get their music for free.
So where does that leave the current day musician?
Remember!!! Music is all around us, television, movies, radio (yes, we still have the radio), streaming stations. Musicians just have to think about things differently. They still have to develop a fan-base. The restaurants and bars are starting to open back up, but things are still different. Be creative. Some musicians like to play on the streets or in malls. Gigging, playing in restaurants, is still trying to “sell your music.” Start a music career by doing something different. Think outside the box.
Where People Hang Out
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay SM
You have to go where the people hang out – Social Media. Is it easy? No, nothing is easy. But it’s worth doing. It’s worth learning how to do it well.
Here are some options:
If you are computer savvy, figure how to get your music out in front of people on social media. Create an online fan-base.
Get Damian Keyes’ book or check out his online classes – people are raving about it.
If you have the money, hire someone to set up and maintain your social media.
Go where the fans are, online.
This is what I am doing. I write about music. I created a website for my husband’s music. I’m trying to find creative ways to put his music out in front of potential fans. Is it easy? Heck, no. But at the same time, it’s fun. It’s challenging. I learn something new every day.
Here’s a statement from Damian Keyes’ Music Business website:
“ARE YOU NOT GETTING YOUR MUSIC HEARD?
Is this a familiar scenario?
You’ve slaved over getting your music JUST right and you’re excited to get it out into the world. You set a release date, put a few posts up on socials. Then release day comes and your music gets some traction and friends and family are loving it…
…But after a couple of days, it’s fallen to the music graveyard. No Spotify playlists, no one replaying… Nothing. And now you’re panicking that you’ve just spent a lot of money on something that hasn’t worked.
There’s got to be a way to actually get your music to the next level right?
It’s not an easy ride in 2020 being a musician. As well as having to be amazing at the actual music, you also need to become an entrepreneur to really succeed.” Damian Keyes https://www.dk-mba.com/
My Research
As I went through Damian Keyes’ websites and other information it looked like it would be really expensive. But after much digging, I discovered it’s not expensive to take the courses on how to maneuver your way through the social media maze to get your music heard, create a fan-base, and make a living from your music.
The classes and mentoring programs are very reasonable.
Just so you know, I am not an affiliate for Damian Keyes. As I began reading the book and browsing through the jungle of material online I became more impressed with what he had to offer and, seemingly, for a reasonable price. Don’t hold me to the price comment, but it appears to be reasonable.
If any of you check it out let me know what you find.
If you are like Ben still trying to get your music heard the old fashioned way, think again.
We all make mistakes. It’s part of being human. But, why do we keep making that same mistake over and over again?
It’s become a habit.
As Dr. Caroline Leaf stated in her podcast “Why We Keep Making The Same Mistakes + Tips to Break Bad Habits,” we keep making the same mistakes because we are not learning from our mistakes. She goes on to say that our minds were designed to self-regulate our thoughts. It is up to each individual to observe, analyze, and change thoughts that are not beneficial.
When we do not analyze our thoughts or behaviors, over time, they become behavioral or thought habits. Because it has taken time to build the habit, it will take time and work to change the habit.
“So, if we just brush mistakes aside, they will grow and affect how we think speak, and act!” Dr. Caroline Leaf.
What Are Triggers
You might ask, “What do triggers have to do with habits?”
Image by John Hain from Pixabay
Think back. Have you noticed an unpleasant emotion that rises when a certain topic is mentioned or thought about? You might feel angry, guilty, sad, or anxious. Do you put yourself down or stay in the past remembering for a few minutes? You may notice, when the subject comes up, that it really bothers you. It could be about a personal issue, money, romantic relationships, or any other subject. The subject doesn’t matter. What matters is that it causes an emotional response inside you.
Not recognizing or changing these triggers is a large part of the reason we keep making the same mistake over and over, which creates a habit. Once we become aware of the trigger we can become proactive, taking steps to change the habit. At least, it is the first step to recognizing the trigger and avoiding future mistakes.
Undoubtedly, it would much easier to keep reacting to the trigger, because the behavior or thought has become automatic. When you respond, your behavior or thought eventually becomes automatic. When it becomes automatic it takes much less energy because it is fixed in your unconscious mind.
It is often more comfortable to continue to respond, act, or speak, in ways that are familiar even though it causes pain and discomfort.
Do You Really Want To Change
But remember, change can also cause pain and discomfort. The key to overcoming the pain and discomfort is really “wanting to change” bad enough to make it happen.
Because your response is so ingrained in your subconscious, you have to decide if you really, really want the change. Ask yourself these questions:
· Am I willing to work hard at changing my habit?
· Does my habit impact others around me? Does the impact concern me enough to experience the pain of changing my habit?
· Is it worth putting in the time and energy needed to make the change?
· Are you fed-up enough to stop making the same mistakes over and over again?
· Do I want to achieve my goals enough to do the work?
Recognizing Triggers
Here are some generic situations and questions to get you started identifying your triggers:
1. A friend or relative shares their exciting news with you. You are happy for them but you notice you are experiencing feelings of jealousy or envy. What is the news about?
· Job promotion
· New car or house
· Getting married
· New relationship
· Expecting a baby
· Or____________
2. Do you continuously compare yourself to someone on social media? Questions to help identify the trigger:
· What is bothering you about the person’s posts?
· How do you deal with it?
3. Is there a certain topic of conversation that triggers an emotional reaction in you when you are around co-workers, friends, or family?
· Yes, when they talk about ___________________?
4. Identify any other topics of conversation or situations that cause negative emotions to arise. Identify the topic or situation.
Time To Change A Habit??
Image by Alexas_Fotos from Pixabay
Change takes time. Don’t expect your triggers and habits to go away overnight. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you make a mistake or fail and yield to your habit!!
Trying to change too fast will cause stress and anxiety, which will actually impede your progress to change (Shame Spiral).
Create A Plan
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
2 days
Give yourself 2 days, after hearing about the information or noticing your trigger, to decide to keep or discard the idea.
Let’s use Guitar Practice as our example. You spend at least 1 hour and sometimes 2 hours practicing your lesson every day. You notice you are getting bored and start playing something totally unrelated to your lesson. When it’s time to go back to your teacher you don’t know the material. You haven’t really practiced.
Image by Vlad Vasnetsov from Pixabay
OR
You have a friend who started playing the guitar at the same time. The two of you wanted to start a band together. You notice that he is playing riffs and using techniques that you just can’t play. You become jealous every time he starts talking about what he’s learning.
Choice: You have 2 days to decide to do whatever is necessary to change or discard the idea, which would ultimately lead to you giving up on the idea of being a guitarist in a band.
3 days
Add 1 more day. You have a total of 3 days (72 hours) to make a final decision to DO IT or NOT.
· Decide on a specific amount of time to think deeply about this issue.
· Evaluate if this is your fault.
· Are you really practicing correctly?
· Get help determining a practice schedule if you can’t do it yourself.
Don’t allow yourself to go into depression, mental fatigue, anxiety, or beat yourself up for not practicing the way you should? (Or whatever the issue might be.)
Set a limited amount of time to evaluate the issue and focus on a plan of action to improve the situation.
If you decide to go ahead with your plan, it’s time to create a GOAL. Write down your goal in a journal where you can review and add to it. Write about your triggers and your mistakes. But most of all, write about how you are going to change. It’s as important to identify why you need to change and how you are going to change.
· What do you really want to do about being a guitarist?
· Is a one-on-one teacher needed or are you going with online lessons?
· Do you need a different teacher?
· Can you design your own practice routine?
Practice Schedule
Create aPractice Routine Schedule, which will help you streamline your practice and keep you on task to fulfill your goal of being a guitarist. The schedule should be for 21 days (3 weeks).
Check out this website. Or, even better ask your teacher to help you. If you go to a website for online video guitar lessons, they will give you a practice routine. Download the practice schedule on LarrySWarfieldMusic.com. You will find examples or links to Practice Routine Schedules.
21 days (time needed to create a new habit)
In your journal write about:
· Why you need to change.
· Every time you are triggered, write everything you can about the situation and the emotion.
· Identify how you reacted to the trigger.
· Did you make a mistake?
· How you can intentionally change the way you react to the trigger.
· Write all your thoughts down about your trigger and behavior, so you can analyze your pattern of behavior and make the necessary changes.
· Remember that Positive Builds and Negative Destroys.
Continue with your Practice Routine Schedule. Make sure you practice the allotted time on each technique etc. Mark your practice schedule when completed. Make small changes to your schedule if your writing dictates a change.
Things to Be Aware of In Your Practice
1. Make sure your guitar is in tune. If you know you are playing the right notes, but it doesn’t sound right, tune your guitar.
2.Don’t try to learn everything quickly. Beginning guitarists are often intrigued by the novelty of playing. They want to learn everything quickly, which results in them not learning the material well. This often applies to a student rushing to learn scales. As TrueFire lessons tell you, make sure you learn each lesson or each scale really well before moving on. In the video guitar lessons, they recommend that you play each lesson with the instructor over and over until you know the material and can play it without the instructor.
3.Play the guitar in the wrong position. It is important that you are comfortable and still able to play the right sounds easily. This is an easy answer. Buy a guitar strap so you are always in a good position.
4. DO NOT practice bits and pieces. Too many times beginning students play bits and pieces of the lessons or just one song, usually because they just like the sound or the feel of those particular riffs or techniques. This isn’t practicing.
Follow your practice routine schedule. If you have a teacher or are doing video lessons stick to their lesson and practice plan.
TrueFire Practice Instructions
Here’s how their courses work: first the instructor will show you something, then they’ll have you play it along with them. You should go over the Practice Session video as many times as you need to get it down. Once you have it, then move on to the next Practice Session, or the next lesson. This way you’ll make sure you’re progressing and getting a solid foundation. Take as long as you need, and don’t just skim over anything. These lessons are designed to take you step by step, so if you gloss over anything you’ll be missing some valuable skills you’ll need later.
63 days
It takes 63 days or 3 sets of 21 days to make your new behavior a LIFE LONG HABIT.
You must be consistent about analyzing and writing about your triggers. As you progress toward your 63 days it will become easier and you will be triggered less often. That means fewer mistakes.
Repetition is the “mother of memory.” The more you stick to your journaling and your Practice Routine Schedule, the stronger your new thoughts and habits will become. Your memory RECALL will become stronger and quicker.
Image by S. Hermann & F. Richter from Pixabay
Stayfocused on your plan and your lessons so you don’t get off in the weeds. To create a new habit, you must stay on task with your schedule.
It is a simple process to create new habits and delete old triggers, but it is not easy.
Summary
I have illustrated how to work the principles using guitar practice. These same principles can apply to any habit or mistake, just follow the same procedure.
1. Identify the habit or mistake
2. What triggers the habit
3. Give yourself 2 days to decide to change or keep the habit
4. In the first 3 days, finalize your decision to DO IT or NOT.
5. If you decide to make the change CREATE A PLAN.
6. Stick to your plan for 21 days — your new habits have been formed.
7. Continue your new habit for 2 more sets of 21 days, a total of 63 days. You now have a new Life Time Habit.
Retro Music is not necessarily about Babyboomers. It’s a term that seems to be floating around. What does it actually mean? Is there a difference between Retro Music and Modern Retro Music?
actual song you heard in the past or a remake, like 
Dena WarfieldWriter & Classical Musician: Using faith in God to weave truth into
