Music 4 Humans

October 12 2 years ago

DJing- A beginner’s guide

A Disc Jockey, more commonly known as a DJ is someone who plays recorded music for audiences. The term ‘disc jockey’ is a combination of ‘disc’ which refers to the vinyl records that are shaped like discs and ‘jockey’ which refers to the person who operates the machine. The concept of DJing evolved from radio station announcers or hosts who would play pre-recorded music on their radio shows. They used to spin the records in turntables. Nowadays, a DJ is usually the one who creates a seamless music mix that they play in clubs, festivals and parties. Some DJs still use turntables. Most of them have shifted to digital software.

Types of DJ

These days we can find different types of DJs. Knowing the different types can help you decide what kind of DJ you would like to become.

Radio DJ

Radio DJs have existed for a long time. They play songs from CDs, vinyl records, etc. on air. They also entertain their audience by making announcements and chatting with callers in between the songs.

Club DJ

A club DJ usually works at one or more dance clubs depending on the needs of the club. Their goal is to keep the people moving on the dance floor. They usually start their career by playing at house parties. Along with playing at dance clubs, some of them also play at promotional events.

DJ producer

DJ producer creates music from the music collection or recordings that they already have and either give live performances or they may even stream it through online platforms.

Mobile DJ

A mobile DJ performs at various events such as weddings, receptions, school dances, anniversaries, etc. They usually play popular songs or current hits to which the guests can dance. They carry their DJ equipment along with video systems, speakers, etc.

Turntablist

Turntablist uses turntables and a mixer to create new and interesting beats and sounds.

How to start DJing?

Now that you have an idea of the different types of DJs, the next question is how to start your DJing career. Check out the below list of things that you need to do to become a DJ.

Learn the skills

As a DJ, you need to know some skills like beatmatching, EQing, etc. Thanks to the internet and the numerous tutorials that are easily available, you can start learning the basic skills that you require to become a DJ. However, a better way to study any music course would be under the guidance of a teacher. Nowadays, online music courses are gaining popularity as they can be accessed from the comfort of your home and also as you can choose your convenient schedule.
Learn DJing from skilled music instructors at Music4humans who take online lessons for all skill levels. 

Get the right equipment

Some of the equipment that a DJ requires are a laptop, DJ mixer or DJ controller, turntable, etc.

Learn about the various software

You need to know the various software used by DJs. Some of them include Native Instruments Traktor Pro, Serato DJ Pro, Ableton Live, Pioneer DJ Rekordbox, Mixxx, etc.

Create your music collection

As a DJ you need a vast music library. You can create a collection with either CDs and records or digitally. It depends mostly on the kind of medium you want to use. You could spin vinyl records or be a digital DJ. Mostly club DJs opt for spinning vinyl records as they sound better. As a digital DJ, you can create a larger music library. So if you want to keep touring and playing at different events and parties, then you can opt for the digital medium. Where can you download music digitally? SoundCloud, Beatport, Traxsource, Direct Music Service, Juno Download, etc. are some good resources.

Create your network

Keep building connections within the industry. Try connecting with people who can help you find gigs. With the right connections and a wide network, you can become very successful as a DJ.

Make yourself unique

DJing is a very competitive field, where you need to put yourself out there to get noticed and gain popularity. Uniquely brand yourself. Create an identity for yourself to set yourself apart from your competition. Use social media to spread your potential.

What is so special about DJing?

It is the ability to connect with your audience and give them a unique experience.

To succeed as a DJ, you must remember that the kind of music you choose and how you play it for your audience should be different and intriguing.

Want to learn more about music?

Music4humans is an excellent platform that offers various online music courses taught by professional private music instructors from all around the world. Schedule a music lesson online today!

Music 4 Humans

October 8 2 years ago

How to expand your vocal range?

find vocal range

Have you ever wondered how some singers have such a wide vocal range? Many aspiring singers have found it challenging to reach high notes while singing. However, having a good vocal range is about getting the high notes and the low notes as well. As a singer, you need to work on your vocal range and expand it. With a few tips and exercises, you can increase your vocal range.

Know your current vocal range

Before going further, it is essential to know your current vocal range. You need to know the range between the highest and the lowest note, that can be sung by you comfortably without any strain. To find your comfortable vocal range, use a keyboard or an app and start with a middle C. Play it and try to match your voice with it. After this, keep going down until you find the lowest note that you can sing comfortably. Repeat this to find the highest note that you can sing without any strain. This will be your natural vocal range. Try to master your current vocal range first by starting to hum as low as you can and slowly proceed to go higher until you find a note that causes strain to your voice. After understanding your current vocal range you can follow the below tips and exercises to increase your vocal range.

Start with warm-ups

Start every practice session with warm-up exercises. Loosening your vocal cords can help you healthily widen your vocal range. Try to warm up gradually. You can try humming or performing trills.

Practice breathing

Incorporating proper breathing techniques while singing can greatly help you expand your vocal range. Try to breathe from your diaphragm. When you inhale deeply, your diaphragm should push your stomach out. Make sure you don’t move your chest or shoulders when inhaling. When you exhale, your stomach should slowly come in. You can learn to control your breath by practicing to inhale for 4 seconds, then holding your breath for 4 seconds before finally breathing out for 4 seconds and repeating this exercise at a comfortable pace.

Maintain good posture

This is a simple and easy way to increase your vocal range. To attain a good posture while singing, stand straight with your feet placed shoulder-width apart and lift your chest without leaning too forward or backward. Relax your shoulders and keep your head and neck up. This posture will allow airflow which will help you reach a wider range of notes while learning to sing.

Take care of your vocal health

If you wish to become a successful singer, your voice is your asset. Take good care of your vocal health and prioritize it. Here are ways to do it-
1. Always make sure you get 7 to 9 hours of good night’s sleep.
2. Keep yourself hydrated by sipping water regularly.
3. Avoid alcohol, coffee, and other drinks that will make your throat dry. Avoid ice creams and other mucous-causing products too especially before singing.
4. Treat coughs and sore throats as soon as possible. Make sure to address your symptoms immediately and treat them soon.

Exercise effectively

Regularly exercising can strengthen your voice and can also increase your vocal range. Some exercises that you can start with are-

1. Vocal sirens
Start by singing an ‘oo’ or ‘oh’ from the lowest note that you are comfortable with to the highest note that you are comfortable with. Then come back down. Repeat this a few times.

2. Lip trills
To do this, try to blow air through your lips while you try to sing the vowel ‘uh’. Let your lips vibrate gently.

Modify vowels

Use rounded, closed vowel sounds when you reach high notes. This reduces the pressure on your vocal cords. When singing words at high notes, keep the vowel rounded. Open your throat when ending the word so that the pronunciation sounds normal.

Replace words

When singing high notes, you may come across tough words. You can substitute these words with simple words. Keep substituting complicated words until you find it comfortable to sing the note with the right word.

Keep your muscles relaxed

Tightening your muscles to expand your vocal range can strain your vocal cords. You need to release the tension in your muscles and keep your muscles loose. Keep your tongue and your throat loose while singing. This will help with airflow and will help you reduce strain when trying to widen your range. Stick your tongue out a couple of times a day when you are not singing to help you loosen up.

Having a singing teacher to guide you throughout your singing training is better than trying to self-learn the craft. At Music4humans you can find excellent singing instructors who can help you expand your vocal range safely and can also help you to enhance your voice quality. Find your dream teacher today!

Music4humans offers a variety of music courses that are taught by experienced and skilled online music instructors from all around the world. Check out the various courses and start learning music!

Music 4 Humans

October 8 2 years ago

How to increase your piano fingers playing speed?

piano fingers

As someone sitting in the audience, it is truly amazing to watch a pianist’s fingers play fast compositions effortlessly. However, if you are a piano player or if you have been learning to play the piano, you must already be aware of how tired your fingers get after playing long and fast compositions. It can get exhausting. So how do these great pianists achieve their finger speed? The answer is you just need to get your technique right and perfect it. Like any other skill, you need to start slow and then gradually master your craft. Here are some exercises that you can incorporate into your routine to increase your finger speed while playing the piano-

Try finger warm-ups

You don’t want stiff fingers when playing the piano. It’s very important to start with finger warm-up exercises. Stretching your fingers will warm up the finger muscles and will help your fingers gain speed while playing the piano. Make a tight fist and hold it for 3 seconds before releasing it. Repeat this exercise a few times. Bend each finger separately so that your fingers act independently when playing. After these two exercises rub your hands together before starting to play.

Play alternating rhythms

This is a simple exercise that has proved to be very effective. If you are playing the Alberti bass pattern with even eight notes, change the rhythmic values to variations of dotted eighth and sixteenth notes.

Practice scales and arpeggios

Every pianist should practice scales and arpeggios. Practicing scales generally helps aspiring pianists build finger strength and master their craft. Try to practice by playing all the notes smoothly without pausing in between the notes. Start by practicing with one hand at a time. This will help build your finger muscles and eventually help you play faster. Make sure the notes feel connected. Practicing scales can also build finger independence which is essential when trying to increase your playing speed on the piano. Start by placing your right thumb on middle C and use your right hand to play the scale while pressing on any three keys with your left hand. After practicing it this way, switch hands and play with your left hand while pressing any three keys with your right hand.
Practicing arpeggios build finger strength and improve speed too. Start by practicing each hand separately. Learn to loosen your wrists. When you practice you should use your hand strength to press the keys.
Though practicing scales and arpeggios may not be an interesting exercise, it can help you master your technique and speed.

Use your thumb

While learning to play the piano, the thumb is generally ignored. You need to start using your thumb consciously. Putting your thumb to good use can help you gain playing speed. While practicing scales, your thumb can cross under the hand to get ready for the next note.

Finger staccato

This is an effective exercise to improve your piano playing speed. Try playing the notes of a scale in staccato from your fingers using minimal muscles and without using your arm. Try to play using your fingertip.

Practice with a metronome

Use a metronome and start by choosing a slow speed at which you can play the entire composition. If you can play the entire piece at that speed, try increasing the speed a little. Gradually you can keep increasing the speed. If you are not able to play the entire piece at a particular speed, then keep practicing the piece at that speed until you achieve it with precision. Do not try to play a piece faster than you can. Always start slow and gradually increase your speed. Practicing with a metronome is a great way to gain playing speed on the piano.

Ultimately practice is everything. Regularly practicing to play the piano will help you remember where each note is placed on the piano. So when playing a composition, you don’t have to think about where to place your finger next. This will help you play faster.

Before starting to play, always begin by going through the notes that you intend to play. Make sure to know your notes before playing.

Always keep yourself relaxed when playing the piano. Get a good night’s sleep. A good amount of sleep can help you be productive and can also help you grasp your technique better.

If you are looking for an online piano instructor who can guide you properly in your piano learning journey, check out the experienced piano teachers at Music4humans and book your favorite teacher today!

Music4humans offers different music courses for passionate learners who would like to pursue their music education through online music lessons. Check out the various courses and the skilled music teachers who teach various aspects of music from all around the world.

Music 4 Humans

September 16 2 years ago

How to become a music producer

What makes a track so good? Was it the singer? Or was it the soulful rendition of the violinist? Or was it the technology used that made it sound so different? Mostly it’s everyone involved in the making of the song. However, a music producer is the mind of the show. From the time of creation until the final execution, the music producer is involved. Every aspect of a song is arranged and coordinated by a music producer.

Music production involves composing, arranging, tracking, editing, mixing, and finally mastering. Although music production is a competitive field, it can be an interesting career choice once you master the craft.

What does it take to become a music producer?

Are you thinking of becoming a music producer? Wondering if it is the right path for you? The best part of becoming a music producer is the opportunity to do a variety of things such as songwriting, mixing, and so much more. Read further to know what it takes to become a music producer and how to become a successful one. The core features of a successful music producer are creativity, good knowledge of the technology involved, and a good understanding of how to arrange and design a single track or an album. Any good music producer aims to deliver the best quality track or album to their audience.

Steps involved in music production

Here are the 6 steps involved in music production.

Composing and songwriting

Every song begins with this. All the relevant musical ideas are put together with the right melody, rhythm, etc. with or without lyrics to form the basic structure of the song with a beginning, middle, and end. A successful song grabs the attention of the listener and conveys the true intention of the composition.

Arranging

The next step is to arrange the vocals and the instruments of the song to make it sound interesting. Arranging is a crucial stage in music production. It takes time to understand how to arrange the various elements. You may have a great segment composed with the right lyrics, melody, etc. However, simply playing it on a repeat won’t work. You need to arrange it and build it properly so that it creates the impact that you are looking for.

Tracking

Until now, the required song is just a bunch of thoughts and ideas. The song needs to be performed. You need to record it and capture it. Tracking is usually done with the help of a recording engineer.

Editing

In this stage, you can make adjustments to the various elements in the track to ensure there is a good flow and to get the best rendition of the song. You can even add effects, move elements around, adjust pitches, etc. Just make sure you don’t go overboard with it. If overdone, the track can start losing its feel.

Mixing

Now it’s time to blend all the tracks and create the final product. While mixing, all the tracks need to be balanced to make it sound good. You should be able to hear all the details and elements clearly.

Mastering

This is the last stage where the final polishing is done to give the best recording. You can correct all minor issues in this stage. The track or album should be ready for distribution.

Tips that can help you in the journey

Many accomplished music producers have pursued their careers either by learning an instrument and composing their own songs or by becoming an engineer. You could do both too. Pursuing music production as a career can require lots of passion and hard work. Here are some tips that can help you.

Learn to play an instrument

You just need to know the basics. Learning to play an instrument can help you understand the basic concepts of music. It will give a more practical approach.

Listen to a lot of music

Listen to different types of music including the ones you may not prefer. You need to know what is happening in the field. Watch music news and interviews about successful musicians. You may find these inspirational. Find out what is trending. Always be up to date with music news.

Learn the craft- take lessons

You can take up a music production course and learn the skill. Nowadays, many are choosing to study music courses from online music instructors.

Check out the various teachers from Music4humans who teach music production for different skill levels. Start learning now!

Create your network

Networking is a great way to become successful in the music industry. You will be able to collaborate more. This can give you a better experience and also give you more opportunities.

Become an intern

Find a recording company that interests you and apply for an internship. Becoming an intern will give you practical knowledge and can help you gain opportunities too. You may also find yourself a good mentor who can guide you in your journey.

Music4humans is a great platform that offers various music courses taught by skilled and professional music teachers from all around the world. Book a music lesson online today!

Music 4 Humans

September 6 2 years ago

5 simple ways to improve your vocal stamina

Singing one song or humming a tune may be easy. However, singing for long hours at a concert is completely different. After singing continuously for a long time, your voice may start to sound a bit hoarse. Your singing technique may even get affected in the process. Singing for long periods can strain your voice and can affect your vocal health. If you plan to make a career out of your singing or if you are planning to perform for long hours, you need to improve your vocal stamina. It would be better if you start doing this as a beginner.

Start following these 5 simple exercises and habits in your early music learning stages to maximize your vocal stamina and make the best out of your talent.

Follow good habits to increase your vocal stamina

  1. Hydration- Your vocal folds are covered with mucous membrane which needs to be hydrated to give a healthy voice. It is essential to keep sipping water at regular intervals throughout the day. This will keep you hydrated externally and internally.
  2. Regular breaks- If you have been singing continuously for some days, take a couple of days off to rest your voice and regain your strength.
  3. Healthy lifestyle- Voice endurance can be improved by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks. Having a good diet can help to maintain your weight, increase lung capacity and improve your breathing while singing. Smoking can cause the vocal folds to become dry and can affect your breathing too. So, if you want to take your music career seriously and if you want to sing for long hours without strain, it’s best to stop smoking.

Perfect your technique

While performing or during your practice sessions, you need to keep a check on your technique. You can check if you are breathing correctly. If you are unsure, you can ask your music teacher to guide you.

Increase your practice time slowly and steadily

Don’t start your practice session with long hours if you have never done it before. Maybe start with a 15-minute session, then you can increase it to a 30-minute session, then to a 45-minute session, and continue to increase at a comfortable pace. Take breaks when necessary. This can help to increase your endurance.

Simple exercises can help you gain voice strength

  1. Warm-ups- Start every music practice session with warm-ups. Maybe you could start with humming. This will help to increase the quality of your voice and to avoid voice strain.
  2. Breath control- Analyze how you breathe. Be aware of your breathing. Inhale and exhale in a quiet place to understand your breath. Visualize your breath while inhaling and exhaling. Try to imagine that the air is heavy. After inhaling, try holding your breath for a couple of minutes. You can slowly increase the time of holding your breath at a pace that is comfortable for you. You should be very comfortable during your breathing exercises. Do not strain yourself. To keep your notes steady while singing, practice exhalation exercises. After inhaling through your mouth, don’t exhale quickly. Exhale at a controlled steady pace and make sure to exhale completely.
  3. Practicing scales and pitching- Practicing scales and pitching can help you control your voice better. Slowly you can start practicing scales outside your comfort zone too. This will help you gain control over your voice and increase your stamina.

Don’t exert

When learning a skill, we often assume that exerting ourselves can help to increase our stamina. This does not apply to singers. When learning how to sing, you must not exert yourself too much to excel in your skill. Exertion can lead to strain in voice and can even damage your vocal folds. This can severely affect your singing career and you may even need absolute voice rest. So it’s best to take it slow. Be patient! Achieve your goals at a steady pace.

As a singer, you may have been blessed with a beautiful voice. You need to train healthily to achieve the best out of it without affecting it. Continuously monitoring your vocal health is extremely important. When you feel a strain in your voice or pain in your throat, your body is telling you that you may have overworked your voice, you need to pause and analyze your problem. You can record yourself while practicing and try to find out what kind of issue you are facing and address it individually.

Enrolling in singing lessons can be helpful at any skill level. Even for an advanced singer, it can help to brush up their skills. Check out the various music teachers at Music4humans who provide singing lessons and enroll yourself today.

Music4humans provides a variety of online music courses such as instrument lessons, music production courses, songwriting courses, music theory lessons, etc. Book a music lesson online today.

Music 4 Humans

August 28 2 years ago

In music what is rhythm and how to improve it?

In music what is rhythm

In music what is rhythm?

Rhythm is created when elements are repeated in a certain pattern. It is around us and within us. In music, rhythm is about timing. As a beginner trying to study music, you may feel that your timing is off. You may assume that you don’t have a sense of rhythm. Due to this, you may even lack the courage and confidence to perform in public or play with other musicians. Some of us may be born with a sense of rhythm. Some of us may not be. If you are one of the latter, don’t get discouraged. You just need to tap the rhythm within you. Here are some exercises that will help you build a sense of rhythm.

Move with the beat

We will start with the most fun exercise. Perform with the music. If you want to dance, then just dance to the beat. By doing this, you will start feeling the rhythm.

Start counting

Play a song that you like and start clapping your hands. You can tap your feet or tap on some surface. Once you start gaining a little confidence, you start counting ‘one, two, three, four,…’ or ‘one, two, three,…’ depending on the time signature. This will help you gain a rhythmic sense.

Use beat dividing

When you get a hang of counting, you can try beat dividing. In this, the regular beat is subdivided. This is a simple and very helpful exercise to perfect your sense of rhythm or timing while playing music. You may be unsure of the space between the regular beats. You can fill the space with subdivided beats. If the regular beat is ‘one, two, three, four,…’ then you can divide it as ‘one and two and three and four and…’ or ‘one and a two and a three and a four and a…’. Beat dividing can help you place your notes correctly. Subdividing the beat can help you figure out complex rhythms too.

Try a metronome or app

Take a song you want to play. Play using a metronome or app. While playing try to tap your internal rhythmic sense.

Practice regularly

Consciously practice! Make sure to practice correctly with a routine. When you know you lack rhythm, you need to dedicate time during your practice session to focus on it and get it right.
Sometimes, when learning music or when learning to play a musical instrument, there may be some segments that we find hard to achieve. The solution is to keep practicing that segment until you perfect it. After practicing for long hours, it is advisable to rest for an adequate amount of time too. This will help you keep your energy levels up.

Record and listen to it

Take your favorite song and record yourself while playing that song. Record it without any metronome or app. Listen to the recording and try to find out if you are going too fast, too slow, or if you are keeping up. Do this consistently during your practice sessions. Make sure the next time you sing and record yourself, you do not make as many mistakes as your previous time. You need to make sure you keep improving.

Try improvising

You don’t always have to memorize the song and play it as is. Pick a song you like and start improvising it by trying new rhythms. Get out of your comfort zone. While listening to composition, try getting into the groove at a random time. By doing this repeatedly, you will be able to get a grasp of the rhythm.

Take help

If you feel you are struggling with rhythm and timing, and if you have not already enrolled in music lessons, then it may be the right time to find a good private music teacher who can help you. Find good music instructors from all around the world at Music4humans.

Rhythm and timing are the basic concepts in music. The above exercises will help you understand it. Once you get your rhythm and timing right, you will start having fun while playing music.
Perfecting this skill is a must. However, it takes a lot of time and a huge amount of quality practice to master it. Some compositions may have intricate and complex rhythms. You may take more time to get a good grasp of these. Take it slow! Learn it at your pace.

These days, you don’t even have to struggle to find good music instructors near you or travel for long hours to get your music lessons. You can learn music from any part of the world in the comfort of your home. At Music4humans, you can learn various music courses from experienced music instructors from all around the world at your convenience. Book a music lesson online today!

Music 4 Humans

July 28 2 years ago

Seven tips for songwriting

tips for songwriting

What made you pursue songwriting? Is it the fact that you can express yourself? Is it because it connects you with the listener? Would it make you feel great that you wrote a song that has a unique place in your audience’s heart? Songwriting is a challenging field where the audience’s perspective constantly changes with the times we live. Not every song becomes successful. There is no denying that practice makes you better at the skill but how else to become a better songwriter?
Here are seven easy tips for songwriting-

Learn songwriting

You may have the talent. However, without a good command, your inherent talent can go wasted. Any raw talent needs to be molded properly. There are fundamental concepts for every subject. Songwriting, too, has certain principles. Following these principles results in good songs. If you are serious about getting better at songwriting, invest time and effort to learn the process. This will make you more organized and help you in the long run. Learn your craft well, and refine your knowledge.

Are you wondering where to learn songwriting? Music4humans is an excellent platform where you can learn songwriting from the best online teachers from around the world. Check out the various teachers who can guide you to be a better songwriter.

Connect with your audience

What makes us connect with a song? Our favorite songs usually tell us a story that we can relate to. It almost makes you feel that the song was written for you. It creates an impact on our minds. You need to tell your audience their story. Make your song about them. This compels them to listen to your song. The better you connect with them, the more they will listen to your music.

Keep it simple

All great songs are easy to understand. You don’t need an extensive vocabulary to write awesome lyrics. Adding complex elements to a song can make it incomprehensible to the listener. Keep your music simple. One catchy tune is all you need to create your next big hit!

Understand your favorite songs

Some songs have a significant impact on us. They can have a huge influence on our lives. Why do you think that is? What makes these songs so unique? As a songwriter, it is crucial to understand what makes a song so unique that it can be a massive part of your listener’s life. Break down your favorite songs and analyze them.
Go to musical shows that you like. This can get you inspired. You will be able to connect with the music and be able to understand your favorite songs better. Sometimes, going to shows of genres that may not be of your interest may also give you new ideas.

Take breaks

Not being able to complete a song does not mean you are a failure. It just means you need more time and maybe a different perspective. You may want to work continuously to complete your song. However, taking regular breaks and allowing your body to regain strength is essential. By working continuously, you will become mentally and physically tired. You don’t want this during your songwriting process. You need a fresh mind to write good songs. Keep yourself energized.

Revisit work

Many great songwriters have indeed found their biggest hits while revisiting some of their old incomplete work. So it’s ok if some songs don’t work out. Don’t try too hard to finish it. You might just mess it up. When a big idea is not reaching its finale after days of hard work, maybe it’s time to move on and revisit this work later with a new angle.

Record every idea

Have you had any ‘Eureka’ moments in your life? As a songwriter, we get inspired by various things. You may be walking on the road when something you hear inspires you. Record it immediately. There are chances you are going to forget it. You have a tune in your head. Record the tune so you can listen to it later and use it well.

When creating a song, remember that the audience gives you 3 to 4 minutes of their precious time. Make songs that can influence your audience within these 3 to 4 minutes.

As a songwriter, you should create songs that connect with your audience on a personal level. Learn the craft well and keep things simple for your listener. Record your ideas immediately, and try to complete every song at your own pace. Don’t force it. Your song should sound effortless. You will face many hurdles during your songwriting process. Don’t feel discouraged. It takes practice and patience to improve yourself. So keep giving yourself chances to get better at it.

Learning and practicing can help you improve yourself at any skill. At Music4humans, you can choose your favorite teachers from the talented panel of music teachers for the subject that you would like to learn. Enroll yourself today and start your music training journey.

Music 4 Humans

June 29 2 years ago

Nylon-string vs steel-string acoustic guitar for beginners

If you have chosen to learn the acoustic guitar, you are in for a fun and interesting journey. To purchase a good guitar for your acoustic guitar lessons, you need to understand the different types of acoustic guitars and the types of strings used. In this article, you will learn more about acoustic guitars, nylon strings, and steel strings. We will also give you the basic differences between nylon strings and steel strings in acoustic guitars which will certainly help you to decide which is best for you.

What is an acoustic guitar? How is it different from other guitars?

In an acoustic guitar, the sound produced through the vibrations of the strings is amplified without any external electronic amplifier. The sound box is the hollow body of the guitar. The soundboard is the front of the guitar’s body. These amplify the sound of the guitar. The strings and the hollow body of the guitar play a huge role while playing the acoustic guitar.
The top of the guitar is generally made using spruce or cedar. Some low-cost guitars may be constructed with laminates.

Electro-acoustic guitars or acoustic-electric guitars have electronics fitted to them so that they can be connected to an amplifier. We should not confuse these with the semi-acoustic guitar which is an electric guitar with a hollow body that allows the guitar to produce a warmer sound.
Electric guitars do not have a chamber that allows the sound to resonate. They are connected to an external amplifier. Hence the sound can be modified too. Electric guitars are usually played using a pick.

Acoustic guitars are usually made with nylon strings or steel strings. Generally, when we refer to acoustic guitars, it is with steel strings. The nylon-string acoustic guitar is referred to as classical guitar.

Nylon-string vs steel-string acoustic guitar

Nylon strings result in warm, mellow sounds which are good for classical and folk music. These guitars have a smaller body and a wider neck. The wide neck allows more spacing between the strings. For beginners who are trying to learn the acoustic guitar with nylon strings, this may be advantageous.

Steel-string acoustic guitars produce a brighter and more powerful sound as compared to guitars with nylon strings. They have a larger body and many come with pickguards to protect them.

Which is better for beginners?

When you start to learn the acoustic guitar, you need to weigh the pros and cons. Here are some aspects that you need to consider while purchasing your first guitar for your lessons-

  1. Finger or pick
    Musicians usually use fingers to play classical guitars with nylon strings. Using a pick can damage the instrument. So when choosing your guitar as a beginner, you need to consider whether you will be using your fingers or a pick. If choosing a steel-string acoustic guitar, then be sure to have sore fingers during your music training journey as steel strings have a lot of tension and you will need to pluck the strings with greater effort. Nylon strings may be softer for your fingers especially when you are just beginning your guitar training course. Some musicians even grow fingernails and use them to play the guitar.
  2. Music genre
    As you already know, nylon-string acoustic guitar and steel-string acoustic guitar produce different sounds. So, you should decide the type of guitar based on the kind of music you would like to play.

Choosing the right kind of guitar for your music classes is extremely important. During the initial days of your guitar lessons or your guitar training course, you may face some challenges. Purchasing a good guitar can solve most of these challenges.

Although, you can learn to play the guitar through self-learning, for proper guidance it is advisable to book a professional guitar teacher who can help you throughout your music training journey. A good private instructor can make your guitar learning process easier and faster.

Online guitar lessons

The pandemic has curbed our freedom by keeping us within our homes. However, in a positive light, it has opened new possibilities using technological advancements. People who were once skeptical about learning music through online classes have started pursuing their passion through various online music courses. In general, students aspiring to learn music or to learn a musical instrument have been finding private online music lessons to be more effective and flexible.

Online guitar courses for aspiring guitarists have become quite popular in recent times. If you are looking for a good guitar teacher to help you learn the acoustic guitar, check out the experienced and skilled guitar instructors at Music4humans who teach online guitar lessons for various skill levels. Book your favorite teacher today.

Music 4 Humans

June 27 2 years ago

10 benefits of learning to play an instrument

play an instrument

10 benefits of learning to play an instrument

You don’t always need to understand music. You need to feel it.

Everything around us is music. When we harmonize with the music in our surroundings, we can find peace within ourselves. Listening to music can influence our mood and attitude. Learning music or learning to play a musical instrument can have a significant impact on us. Learning even the basics of a musical instrument can positively shape our lives, and we can use it throughout our lives to succeed in all our endeavors. Can instrument lessons such as learning to play the guitar or the piano be that stimulating and empowering? Absolutely! Here are 10 benefits of learning to play a musical instrument that can get you inspired.

Relieves stress and keeps you healthy

While some may use music to escape their mundane life, some may use it to calm and relax from a hectic lifestyle. Playing an instrument after work hours can relieve us of our day’s stress. In addition, learning a musical instrument has many health benefits. Studies show lower blood pressure, anxiety, and heart rate. It can also help with depression.

Boosts our immune system

Music is medicine for our body, mind, and soul. According to researchers, playing a musical instrument and listening to music can improve our immune system. The effects may not be immediate but are very effective and can even improve the quality of life. In recent times, when we are finding ways to keep ourselves healthy, taking an online musical instrument class can be effective.

Increases memory power, focus, and concentration

Learning a musical instrument requires a lot of brain activity, such as memorizing the various notes. Music training, in general, can positively influence your brain and improve memory power and concentration to a large extent. It can be beneficial for children. Learning an instrument and acquiring music knowledge from their initial years, even as a hobby, can help them with all their endeavors in life.

Develops multi-tasking ability

Learning an instrument requires the ability to process multiple tasks simultaneously, such as listening to what you play or listening to your teacher play, using your sense of touch, and using your vision, all at the same time. Instrument learning develops the skill of multi-tasking, which can benefit our lives, especially when we start learning it at a young age.

Boosts confidence

Expressing a talent or performing a skill in front of an audience can be intimidating to many. Playing in front of your music teacher during your offline or online music lessons can boost your confidence. Also, sometimes need a little nudge and a bit of cheering to overcome our fears. When playing in front of our family, friends, and relatives, we often receive the encouragement that we seek to uplift us and build our confidence. Some may have critical viewpoints. It takes a lot of courage to play an instrument in front of an audience who can encourage and criticize us.

Improves coordination

Playing a musical instrument requires good hand-eye coordination. It is one of the reasons why children are encouraged to learn a musical instrument.

Instills discipline

Learning an instrument involves following a specific routine with hard work and discipline. A disciplined and organized approach can help us achieve even the most challenging goals throughout our lives.

Improves patience and perseverance

Many of us have become very impatient. We expect everything without any delays. Especially children nowadays do not understand the value of patience. Learning music and an instrument takes time, and there is no end to the process. The journey can be prolonged and requires great determination and perseverance.

Develops creativity

Humans are naturally creative. Sometimes, creativity needs to be tapped. Music, being a form of art, can be used to express your emotions. You can release your untapped potential by taking instrument lessons and getting the creative juices flowing.

Keeps you happy

Learning an instrument is fun for all age groups and skill levels—dopamine levels or “happy hormones” increase when playing a musical instrument. As we get older, we need to keep ourselves happy and motivated. In this chaotic world, instrument learning can be meditative. It can help us make sense of things and get rid of negativity.

Anybody can learn a musical instrument with determination and passion. As a beginner, it is customary to be anxious about your musical training journey. The best advice would be to keep aside your inhibitions and pick an instrument you would like to learn. Check out the various instrument courses taught at Music4humans for beginners through online music classes.

Music4humans is a fantastic platform where students can learn from dedicated and experienced private music instructors who teach music through online music lessons from around the world. So look for your favorite teacher at Music 4 Humans and start learning a musical instrument today.

Music 4 Humans

June 12 2 years ago

10 ways to stay inspired when making music

musician inspiration

10 ways to be creative and stay inspired when making music

Nowadays, you may seem to have a lot of time in hand to attend online music classes to learn a new musical instrument or learn other aspects of music like songwriting, music production, music theory, etc. However, finding inspiration to make music within the four walls of your home must be challenging. Getting creative and staying inspired is not easy for an aspiring student, especially when trying to learn music through online music lessons. As an artist, you need to venture out, meet new people, and experience new things to gain inspiration. Sometimes you may even find yourself stuck in a rut during your music training. So how to keep yourself inspired and get new ideas when you make music? Here are some ways to help you get out of the rut and to get you to think outside the box.

Initiate and complete

Creating new musical compositions during your music training requires a lot of self-initiation. This is one of the 10 ways to be creative and stay inspired when making music. Just sitting around and thinking of new ideas won’t do! You need to act on those ideas. So just begin composing music.
Once you begin, take it slow. Don’t rush through it. Always remember, you bear the fruits of your labor.
Sometimes, you may lose inspiration mid-way and start doubting the initial idea. This is normal. You need to finish your composition to know whether your initial idea was good. So make sure you complete every composition. Even if you feel it is bad, don’t worry! You are still learning to create music. Music teachers who offer private music courses can help you with the challenges you face in during your music training.

Learn music theory

Learning music theory may sound boring, but at times when you are completely out of ideas, music theory can help. You may even find inspiration by studying music theory basics.

If you are looking for an online music theory course, check out some of the good music instructors from Music4humans who take online music theory lessons for all levels- beginner, intermediate and advanced.

Try another instrument

If you usually use a guitar to write your music. Try using a piano instead or any other musical instrument which you wouldn’t normally use. When we already know a musical instrument well, we tend to play the same notes and slowly limit ourselves to a certain style. When you try a new musical instrument or an instrument that you don’t usually play, you are either learning to play that musical instrument from the basics, or you are re-learning the instrument with a fresh perspective. You will have no limitations or boundaries. This approach can lead you to think differently from your normal style. Learning a new musical instrument can be helpful in the long run.

At Music4humans, you can find good music teachers from around the world who offer private online music lessons for beginners in a variety of musical instruments. Find your dream musical instrument teacher and begin your online instrument lessons today.

Listen to your favorite music

Listening to your favorite music can remind you of why you wanted to learn music or why you started musical instrument lessons in the first place. You can listen to songs by your favorite musician and try to render them. This activity can help kick in some inspiration. This is one of 10 ways to be creative and stay inspired when making music.

Collaborate

Collaborating with friends and peers can be refreshing, especially when learning to create musical compositions. Your friend may think of some idea that you may not have thought of or which may get you out of your comfort zone. Sometimes, you just need to view things from a different perspective.

Take a walk

The pandemic has not stopped people from walking on the streets. So take a walk, observe your surroundings note down anything that inspires you.

Set goals & deadlines for yourself

After every music lesson, set clear goals and deadlines for your practice sessions. When you set deadlines, you will challenge yourself to do better within a limited time. This will keep you motivated throughout your music course. It will help you to think differently during your music training.

Go back to your basics

Sometimes, learning music as a beginner by going back to learning the basics of music with a fresh mind can help you make your foundation stronger. Re-learning music theory basics or taking online music lessons to learn the basics of any musical instrument can help you make good music.

Learn a new skill

Music production is all about acquiring new skills such as songwriting, recording, composition, etc. You will compose better music with more knowledge. Find a music instructor who can guide you in the right manner.

Channel your emotions

You need to accept your emotions and let them surface. Express your emotions through music or a musical instrument.

Are you experiencing a creative block? Or are you finding it hard to get into the creative groove? Just breathe and relax! Try the above tips and make your music learning journey a success by creating good music.

Music4humans has many good private instructors who can help you learn new skills, teach you the basics of music and musical instruments, and who can make a music lesson online fun for you! Book your favorite teacher today!