Question 1

What is a music technique dictionary?

Accepted Answer

A music technique dictionary defines what a technique does rather than only naming it. Each entry explains the physical action, how it is notated, what it sounds like and which related techniques it belongs with, so a student can go from reading a marking in a part to producing it on the instrument.

Question 2

Which instruments are covered?

Accepted Answer

The dictionary covers 29 topics: violin, viola, cello, double bass, piano, guitar, bass guitar, voice, trumpet, trombone, french horn, clarinet, saxophone, flute and drums, seven ensemble types including symphony orchestra, chamber music, choir, wind orchestra, jazz and big band, folk orchestra and world traditions, six composition and craft topics, and music theory. The violin encyclopedia is written and the rest are in progress.

Question 3

Is the music dictionary free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every definition, notation example and term page is free to read, with no account and no sign-up. It is reference material for any musician, whether or not they take lessons with us.

Question 4

What is the difference between bowing and left hand technique?

Accepted Answer

Bowing technique is everything the right arm does to the string: the stroke, its speed, its weight and where it contacts the string, which is what produces the sound. Left hand technique is everything the fingers on the fingerboard do: pitch, vibrato, shifting, double stops and harmonics, which is what shapes the sound into notes.

Question 5

Do you teach all the instruments in the dictionary?

Accepted Answer

Soul Music Lessons teaches violin, viola, piano, guitar, bass guitar, music theory, ensemble, songwriting, improvisation and composition. The other encyclopedias in this dictionary are free reference material for musicians of every background. Call 470-789-2422 to ask about lessons.

Music Dictionary

Violin