Archive for Musical Instruments
Guitars For Beginners
Posted by: | CommentsIf you’re still looking for the perfect Holiday Gift for a guitar student, here’s a little video about our great line of Beaver Creek guitars. These are perfect guitars for beginners and particularily those of an early age.
This is an acoustic guitar for beginners that’s worth checking out. These guitars are not toys. They’re real quality musical instruments that can be enjoyed for years to come.
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Musical Instruments:History of the Saxophone
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The Saxophone.
Music and music lessons have become very popular and one of the musical instruments that has gained a lot of call for is the saxophone.
Saxophones vary in size and are named as follows: soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone, which are most commonly used, but their is also Bass, C melody,
C soprano, F mezzo soprano, Conn-o sax, and F baritone.
The Soprano sax musically has the highest pitched key (B flat) and is gaining popularity for background music. A Soprano sax can have a curved or straight bell.
Music students will come into contact with the Alto Sax at school bands. This musical instrument has range up to an E flat and has a curved bell.
Tenor Sax is larger than the Alto and Soprano Sax and has a larger mouthpiece, rods and tone holes. The tenor is most often used for jazz.
The largest of the commonly used Saxophones is the Baritone; a very expensive musical instrument often used for bass and countermelody.
Where did the saxophone originate?
In 1840 a man named Adolphe Sax was working at his father’s shop in Brussels. Adolphe combined the brass body of ophiclude (large conical bass instrument similar to a woodwind), the conical bore of the oboe and fingering of the flute with single reed mouthpiece like a clarinet. He applied for a patent for l5 years which covered 14 versions of the design from soprano to contrabass. After the patent was finished improved designed were formed such as adding one more key to extend the range downwards and the extension of the bell. A substantial advancement in saxophone key work for music students was the development of a method by which both tone holes are operated by a single octave vent to assist in playing of the upper register just as modern instruments do.
Although many composers have written solos for the saxophone their late invention leaves a great void in literature. For many years the Saxophone was confined to military bands and occasionally the orchestra. Saxophone didn’t become a solo instrument until the l920′s and most of its solo literature has been composed since then. Music students who wish to perform Classical and Romantic periods must turn to
transcriptions.
When Adolphe Sax built the saxophone symphony orchestras were already well established; Mozart had died 50 years earlier, Haydn 32 years and Beethoven l4 years. Musicians were none too eager to accept new instruments. The clarinet had come in a century and half before the sax and had been well established in the orchestra. Fortunately, the instrument was eventually accepted and today, we are the beneficiaries of a beautiful sounding instrument for orchestras, jazz groups, rock groups and all types of enjoyable music at our disposal.
Once you have chosen the saxophone that you wish to play, you need to assemble it. Remove the reed from the case and put it in your mouth to soak.
Put the neck strap around your neck, lubricate the cork on the neck with cork grease, remove your instrument from case put the strap on it, remove end plug, put the neck into the top of instrument, tighten neck screw, gently twist on the mouthpiece so that half of the cork is covered and align the flat side of the mouthpiece with the octave key. Now rest the saxophone on your knee, place the ligature on the mouthpiece, slide the reed behind the ligature, keeping the flat side of the reed against the flat side of the mouthpiece. Centre the reed on the mouthpiece and position it so that a hairline of black mouthpiece can be seen above the reed and gently tighten the ligature screw.
How to hold your sax – Place your right thumb under right thumb rest, place your left thumb diagonally on left thumb rest to operate octave key lever and place the fleshy part of your fingertips on the keys.
Forming the embouchure- Open your mouth so that your teeth are 3/8 of an inch apart and cover your bottom teeth by rolling your lower lip over your teeth. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth where the reed separates from the mouthpiece. Ask your music teacher to check this position. Now your music teacher will instruct you with air games to produce proper musical sounds. You are now on your way to learning how to play the saxophone. Who knows, you could be a musician, lawyer, or president of the USA like Bill Clinton. Have fun and treat your musical instruments carefully.
Before putting the instrument back in the case remove the reed, wipe off moisture, remove the mouthpiece and neck. Put the soft end of the neck cleaner into the large end of the neck, draw it back and forth to wipe the inside of the sax. Drop weight of swab into the bell and pull it out of the other end. NEVER USE METAL POLISH ON YOUR SAX.
Please practice and get ready for your next music lesson.
Niagara Music Drum Tips
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Niagara Music award winner for Jazz Group of the year and Rysons drum teacher Tim Popek shares some music tips for students.
Music Lessons in Niagara: Drummers are cool. Drummers are usually the focal point of a musical group. Knowledge for new drums students: If you want to be a good drummer don’t talk about it, don’t think about it, don’t read about it. Find a drum teacher for private music lessons in Niagara, put the sticks on the drums and let the fun begin.
“Sticks” What about sticks? Names on sticks can be confusing like 5B, 7A or 2S. Long ago, size A was for orchestra, B was for band and S was for marching. A sticks were smaller and lighter, B were thicker and S sticks were like small baseball bats. Nowadays drum sticks are labelled jazz, funk, rock, and powerhouse etc.
Beginning music students are usually advised by private music teachers to start with 5A, which is middle of the road. For example, Lucas Venneri of the Golden Hammers uses 5A, so does his teacher Tim. Heavy sticks can cause tiredness, cut practice time and can cause damaged muscles if you’re not careful. Thin sticks may cause cramps because you have to squeeze harder. Niagara music teachers who are professionals will always advise you to choose the sticks that will enrich your playing.
Drum sticks are made of hickory, maple and oak. Hickory is more flexible and will absorb shock whereas maple is harder but doesn’t flex as well. Oak stands up to harder play but doesn’t absorb shock. Synthetic sticks are designed to withstand breakage, but shock can be transferred to wrist or arm; sometimes if you’re doing a rimshot, it’s better to break an inexpensive stick than hurt yourself.
Drumsticks also have different beads or tips such as acorn, teardrop, oval, round or barrel. Acorn beads on sticks are more versatile; by angeling the sticks you can obtain different sounds from your ride cymbals. Nylon tips rebound better than wood, so they are favoured by musicians who employ a lot of double strokes or buzz rolls. Furthermore, Nylon tips won’t wear down or splinter like wood tips, but can sometimes become unglued.
Point of interest – the neck is the portion right below the bead; the thinest part of the stick. If you play hard and loud, choose a stick with a thick neck.
Always ask the music store owner and your music teacher for advice as you progress as they may recommend drum brushes, mallets, coloured sticks and other items to enjoy the gift of music. Your sticks will soon become part of your hands, allowing you to get every possible sound out of your instrument .
Now that you have proper knowledge of sticks, your teacher will take you through matched grips, traditional grips and making the strokes to play on your drum kit.
Thanks for stopping by. If we can help you just visit the store.
Musical Instruments: How To Choose Wisely
Posted by: | CommentsNow that you’ve decided to take music lessons, let’s talk about some points to keep in mind when choosing a musical instrument.
Choose an instrument of good quality. Cheap musical instruments are normally harder to play, won’t last as long, and won’t provide the playability or sound results you want to achieve.
It is always best to choose a musical instrument that you have an interest in. This will increase your learning ability and long term interest.
Make sure that the instrument fits you properly. A violin, as an example is available in 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full sizes. The proper size depends on the length of your arm. Seeking professional advice from your teacher or a qualified music store is wise.
If you’re interested in guitar, what type of guitar? Classical, acoustic, electric? What kind of music do you want to play? Again, a qualified music teacher, and music store can advise you on these decisions and explain the differences.
Know the qualifications of the music store you’re buying from. It’s important that you get the right advice when buying the instrument, which means that the store needs to understand their product and know how to properly fit you with the right instrument. But it doesn’t stop there. After sales service for your musical instrument is vital to your long term pleasure. So you want to find a music store that is an established business, with qualified staff, a variety of instruments, and experience and knowlege of product. Be sure that the music store will provide you with a guarantee on the instrument. And what will they cover? In addition, make sure the music store properly sets up the instrument so that it will play properly and stay in tune.
What accessories are important to you? Buying a musical instrument is only the beginning. There are certain accessories that you will need right away, and others that can wait till later.
Accessories you need for guitar: a protective case, guitar strap, and a tuner. You can also get a variety of guitar pedals for electric guitars that will provide several different sounds which will enhance your playing. These can wait till later as well.
Violins require a good protective case, a properly fitted shoulder rest, and rosin.
If you’re taking piano, obviously you’ll need an instrument to practice on. If there’s a piano at home, it should be properly tuned. A metronome is a great idea as well.
Woodwind instruments need reeds and cleaning rods. Pofessional advice on buyng the right ones for you is wise.
If you’re buying drums, you will need cymbals. They don’t always come with the set. Be careful here. All in one kits at a cheap price are not usually of good quality in terms of durability and sound. You’ll also need drumsticks and perhaps brushes. A metronome is a must for drum lessons.
Now you knew that I wasn’t going to leave out the part where I tell you that Ryson’s provides all of the above for you. We’ve been in the music business for 70 years and we are the home of Ryson’s exclusive 2 year warranty.
I hope this information is helpful.
Anne.
Music Lessons|Music Instruments|Vintage Guitars
Posted by: | CommentsBack to school registration is well under way at Ryson’s!
Be sure to call and reserve your music lessons time while there’s still room.
Music lessons:
Have been proven to be a terrific benefit
to the growth and well being of a child.
“It’s no coincidence that success in music is success in life”.
photo credit: eflon
It’s also a great time to take a close look at your musical instrument and make sure it’s in top playing condition.
An instrument that is in need of repair can adversely effect the tone quality, ability to stay in tune, and generally make the instrument more difficult to play.
A vocal student of course is fortunate to possess their own natural instrument. Our qualified vocal teachers ensure that proper technique, and vocal exercise, is practiced in order to keep the voice in good condition.
Brass and Woodwind instruments must be properly maintained for performance. These instruments can leak air and require pad or valve repair or replacement, or key adjustment. They also require lubrication and general cleaning on a regular basis.
Ignoring this type of regular check up can result in the student becoming frustrated with trying to play
proper notes and get good tone quality.
Brass instruments are just that. Brass. This is a very soft metal which can be dented and damaged very easily. Dents can be and should be promptly repaired.
photo credit: strbn
Classical violin, cello, viola and string basses require proper care as well. Things such as neck adjustments, bow re-hairing and proper set up are imperative to the performance of these instruments. These are of course string instruments and so the strings themselves need to be changed periodically as well.
Classical Guitars, Electric Guitars, and Acoustic Guitars need to be regularly checked as well. Guitar strings don’t last forever. In fact, they need to be changed on a regular basis depending on the frequency of use.
Guitar necks are made of wood and as such most require adjustments from time to time in
order for the instrument to stay in tune. Fret wear needs to be monitored as well. If the frets are showing small grooves from the strings, they need to be dressed. In addition to proper bridge alignment and tuning pegs checked for proper operation.
Musical Instruments are a valuable investment. A good quality instrument can, and should provide musical pleasure for years. But they must be taken care of properly. Most instruments are fairly fragile and need to be handled with care and maintained on a regular basis.
Finding a good musical instrument repair person can be a challenge these days. Most music stores don’t have the proper facilities or expertise to do many of the maintenance and repair tasks required to keep your instrument in top working condition.
We at Ryson’s are very fortunate in that regard. Don has been doing musical instrument repairs since 1965. We can usually provide same day service, and all repairs are done right here on our premises. And what’s most important is that it’s done right…the first time!
We are proud to be the musical instrument repair facility used by the Niagara Instrumental Program and Ridley College.
By the way. Have you got an older musical instrument in the closet, or stashed in the attic? Vintage Fender Guitar, Gibson Vintage Guitar, or maybe a vintage Les Paul? Vintage guitars, can be worth quite a tidy sum of money as can other vintage instruments.
If you need an appraisal for your vintage instrument, for estates, or insurance claim purposes, bring it in to us. We are authorized and will provide you with a written value of your instrument. Don will check the condition of the instrument, and the guitar serial number in the guitar vintage reference guides we have and give you an accurate value appraisal. Although I’ve made specific reference to vintage guitars, you’re welcome to bring in all instruments.
New Musical Instruments;
If it’s time for you to upgrade to a new instrument, come on in and see us. We will ensure that your new instrument is just right for you, properly set up before you take it home, and we’ll provide you with our exclusive 2 Year Warranty.
Hope to see you soon!
Anne.
Ph: 905-682-6832
Email: anne@rysonsmusic.com
Get Your Very Own “Natalie Purple Violin”
Posted by: | CommentsWe have had a tremendous amount of interest in the “Natalie Purple Violin” since we introduced the original purple instrument at Fiddle Fest.
Why do we call it the “Natalie Purple Violin”?
We wanted to offer a special prize to the participants of the St. Catharines “Fiddle Fest”. When we received the original purple violin, it was so unique with it’s beautiful colour that we decided to approach Canadian Fiddle Icon, Natalie MacMaster, to see if she would autograph it for us. We were very excited when she accepted our request and signed the front of the violin. This was a very special prize indeed. Although Natalie has no connection with the violin, to us here at Ryson’s, it will always be affectionately known as the “Natalie Purple Violin”.
Great News!
If you are in the market for a violin, and you want your very own “Natalie Purple Violin”, we can now get a limited supply!
This is an amazing quality instrument at an equally amazing price.
What is the “Natalie Purple Violin”?
Natalie Purple Violin Articles;
http://rysonsmusic.com/?p=26
http://rysonsmusic.com/?page_id=69
If you have questions about this beautiful instrument, or you want to order yours, please contact me at;
Ph: 905-682-6832 or Email: anne@rysonsmusic.com
Anne.
Musical Instruments:How to buy your first guitar
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Buying your first guitar is an exciting time. The problem is that there are so many types of guitars to choose from. Even two of the same style of guitars, i.e. acoustic, will have significant differences. So which one is best for you? How do you choose? There’s a fine balance in finding the right guitar at the right price. You can either end up paying more for an instrument than you need to, or worse, getting a cheap instrument that will never be playable for you.
What type of music are you interested in? The type of music that you’re interested in can help to determine the type of guitar you should look for. If your interest is in background accompaniment for a campground sing along, an acoustic 6 string would likely be your best choice. If however you have designs on becoming the next chart topping rock star, an electric may be the way to go. Although you may want to take your musical interest into consideration, you should understand that you can learn and acquire the skills on any of the guitars available. Lots of electric guitar players started with an acoustic.
Here are some of the differences;
Acoustic Six String; Good to learn with; Larger body than electric; Doesn’t require extra expense of an amplifier.
It’s important to make sure that the neck and body is comfortable for you, and that you canget a clean sound when pressing the strings. Cheaper acoustics can be difficult to play becauseof the space between the fret board and the strings. It’s important that the guitar be setup properly in order to avoid a buzzing sound when playing.
Electric Six String; Good to learn with; Smaller body than acoustic; Does require the extra expense of amplification. As with the acoustic, you need to ensure that the neck and body fit you properly, and that you will be able to play the instrument. Electric guitars are typically easier to play than acoustics but you still need to get professional advice regarding proper set up.
The Action;
I’ve made reference to the space between the fret board and the strings. This is called the action and will affect your ability to play the instrument. If the strings are too far from the fret board, they will be hard to press and therefore difficult to play. If the strings are too close to the fret board they can interfere with the frets which will cause a buzzing sound. Play each string on each fret. Is it fairly even as you move up the neck? Any buzzing? Do the notes sound like they’re in tune as you move up the neck? If you’re not sure about how to do this little test, get professional advice. Your guitar teacher would be a great source.
The Neck;
It is vital to the guitar staying in tune, and overall playability for the neck to be straight. If in the above test you find that the notes are more out of tune as you move up or down the neck, you may have a twisted or warped neck. These can be adjusted on quality instruments but not likely on the cheap ones. Don’t buy the guitar if the neck is out. If the salesperson says they can fix it, ask them to do so, and then do the test again to ensure straightness. Once again professional advice is the best idea.
How Much Do You Want To Spend?
As a beginner, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get started. The best advice says to buy the least expensive instrument you can with the most quality. Make sure it’s playable for you. If you find later that you are doing well with your lessons, you can always upgrade later.
Where to Buy Your Instrument
There are lots of options available to you when looking for a new guitar; Music stores; Department Stores; Online Stores; Pawn Shops, etc. Now that you have an understanding of the importance of before and after sale service for your instrument, it’s always best to make your purchase from an established Music Store that can provide on-site service for your instrument. If you have problems, you can simply bring it back for adjustments, etc. This is usually not the case for any of the other listed sources. Remember, not everyone who sells guitars understands how to fix or adjust them properly.
In closing, I would always advise that you seek the help of a professional. Did you know that you can cause yourself physical damage with improper technique and the wrong instrument? Your music teacher is a good resource, or a Music Store, like Ryson’s, that is experienced with proper fitting, instrument repair and adjustment. At Ryson’s we won’t sell you a guitar that won’t work well for you. We are always happy to help with your choice of instrument. Our two year guarantee is on all of our instruments.
You’re always welcome to contact me for further information if you wish.
Anne.