Is it possible to learn guitar online? How is the class conducted, and what is the format?

Yes, it is possible to learn guitar online, especially from music schools that offer the right teaching methodology and access to well-developed learning materials. Besides, taking online guitar lessons is a great way to use your free time and learn to play the instrument as well as develop your creativity. Classes at Music Pandit are conducted in a group, which makes it more fun, and lessons are taught live via our online platform by qualified tutors.

Do you offer certifications or conduct grade exams?

Yes, we equip our students with the knowledge and training to appear for grade exams that align with the curriculum set by Trinity College, U.K. and Rockschool, London. Students get certification from these institutions after they successfully complete their exams.

For what age do you teach guitar?

We offer classes for students starting at the age of 8 and above. This is the right age to learn guitar. However, students can start guitar lessons as soon as they are able to hold a guitar (smaller scale), press down on the strings, and be comfortable with the instrument.

Which platform is used to conduct classes?

We use Music Pandit’s custom platform (Learning Management System) to offer guitar lessons.

Do we get to learn songs by popular artists and movie soundtracks during online guitar classes?

Yes, students get to learn all types of songs. However, the basics will remain the same for all songs. You will learn to play the instrument along with music theory.

What is the length of one online guitar session?

One online guitar session will last 45 minutes. There will be two classes in a week.

Are students given assignments and how frequently?

Students will be given assignments after most class, and they will have to submit them within a given period. These assignments will include guitar pieces, exercises, questions, and answers, as well as audio or video submissions.

What are the types of feedback we can expect from the instructor?

Feedback is provided weekly. This will include technical feedback on assignments submitted and the overall progress of the children or students.

How long is the overall tenure of the guitar classes?

The beginner guitar curriculum will include 48 classes over a period of 6 months. During this period, students will cover all the fundamentals of guitar playing, including music theory and techniques, and be ready to take their understanding to a higher level.

What is the grading method?

Firstly, it is important for students to maintain a minimum of 90% attendance. They will also have to submit their final video, which will be assessed in line with Trinity and Rock School standards.

How is the exam format?

The exams will be held mostly online, wherein the student will have to record themselves playing a piece or a song as per the curriculum and submit it. The recorded performance will be assessed and graded accordingly.

Do you conduct workshops and recitals?

Yes, we conduct workshops once a month for the students. Workshops will be based on specific music categories and themes, conducted by popular artists or professionals. This is an added bonus to students' regular studies. Recitals will be held at the end of the course, wherein students will get the opportunity to showcase their talent.

What is a suitable guitar to buy (acoustic, electric, or classical)?

If you are a beginner, then you can go with an acoustic guitar. This will help you get comfortable with the instrument. As you gain better control over the instrument and progress to a higher level, you can go for an electric guitar and explore some interesting sounds.

Modes

August 22, 2024

Music modes are one of the fundamental concepts in music theory, offering a diverse palette of sounds and emotions. Understanding modes can enhance your ability to compose, improvise, and appreciate music. This guide will provide an in-depth look at what modes are, their types, applications, and significance in various musical contexts.

What are Modes?

In the simplest terms, a mode is a type of musical scale coupled with a set of characteristic melodic behaviours. Each mode has a unique sequence of intervals (whole steps and half steps) between its notes, giving it a distinctive sound.

Importance of Modes

Modes are crucial because they expand the harmonic and melodic possibilities in music. They are used extensively in classical music, jazz, rock, and many other genres. Understanding modes allows musicians to create varied musical textures and evoke different emotions and atmospheres.

Types of Modes

There are seven primary modes in Western music, each with a unique structure and sound:

Ionian Mode (Major Scale)

Structure: W-W-H-W-W-W-H (Whole and Half steps)
Sound: Bright, happy
Example: C Major Scale

Dorian Mode

Structure: W-H-W-W-W-H-W
Sound: Minor with a bright sixth note
Example: D Dorian (D-E-F-G-A-B-C-D)
Uses: Jazz, rock, folk music

Phrygian Mode

Structure: H-W-W-W-H-W-W
Sound: Dark, Spanish, or Middle Eastern
Example: E Phrygian (E-F-G-A-B-C-D-E)
Uses: Flamenco, metal

Lydian Mode

Structure: W-W-W-H-W-W-H
Sound: Bright, dreamy, otherworldly
Example: F Lydian (F-G-A-B-C-D-E-F)
Uses: Film scores, jazz

Mixolydian Mode

Structure: W-W-H-W-W-H-W
Sound: Major with a bluesy feel
Example: G Mixolydian (G-A-B-C-D-E-F-G)
Uses: Rock, blues, jazz

Aeolian Mode (Natural Minor Scale)

Structure: W-H-W-W-H-W-W
Sound: Sad, reflective
Example: A Aeolian (A-B-C-D-E-F-G-A)
Uses: Classical, rock, pop

Locrian Mode

Structure: H-W-W-H-W-W-W
Sound: Dissonant, unstable
Example: B Locrian (B-C-D-E-F-G-A-B)
Uses: Modern classical, metal

Differences Between Modes

Each mode differs in the sequence of whole and half steps, which affects their overall sound and mood. For instance, while the Ionian mode (major scale) is often associated with happiness, the Phrygian mode has a more exotic, tense quality. The Dorian mode, though minor, has a bright major sixth note, giving it a unique flavor among minor scales.

Application of Modes

Modes can be used in various ways in music composition and improvisation:

Chord Progressions: Using modal harmony to create distinctive chord progressions.
Melody Creation: Crafting melodies that highlight the unique intervals of each mode.
Improvisation: Soloing over chord changes using different modes to create diverse sounds.

Benefits of Learning Modes

Understanding modes provides several benefits:

Enhanced Creativity: Opens up new musical possibilities and ideas.
Improved Improvisation: Helps in creating more interesting and varied solos.
Deeper Musical Understanding: Offers insight into the structure and function of different types of music.
Versatility: Equips musicians to play in various genres and styles.

Instrument-Specific Information

Guitar

Guitarists often use modes to expand their soloing vocabulary. Each mode can be visualised as a pattern on the fretboard, making it easier to switch between them during improvisation.

Piano

For pianists, modes can be practised by playing scales on the white keys starting from different notes. This physical approach helps internalise the distinct sound of each mode.

Modes for Singers

Singers can practise modes by vocalising scales and melodies that emphasise the unique intervals of each mode. For example, practising the Dorian scale with its major sixth interval can help singers familiarise themselves with its characteristic sound.

Song Examples

Ionian: “Happy Birthday to You” – Bright and cheerful

Dorian: “Scarborough Fair” – Haunting and folk-like

Phrygian: “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane – Exotic and mysterious

Singers can use modes to improvise over chord progressions. This practice helps in developing a versatile vocal technique and a deeper understanding of modal harmony.

Other Instruments

Violin: Practice scales and arpeggios in different modes to explore their unique tonal qualities.

Flute: Utilise modes to add variety to scales and melodic exercises, enhancing the tonal palette.

Practising Modes

Scale Exercises

Practise each mode by playing its scale ascending and descending, focusing on the unique interval pattern.

Chord Progressions

Create and play chord progressions that emphasise the characteristic notes of each mode.

Improvisation

Improvise melodies using specific modes over backing tracks to develop a feel for their unique sounds.

Conclusion

Modes are a powerful tool in a musician’s arsenal, offering a range of sounds and emotions that can enrich your music. By understanding and practising modes, you can unlock new creative possibilities and deepen your appreciation for the diversity of musical expression.