Twelve Bar Blues

Each genre of music has certain characteristics that distinguish it from other musical styles. These familiar attributes can be found in the rhythms, chords, and notes. Blues music is based on a common song form with three basic chords. This form is commonly called the twelve bar blues because it contains 12 measures. Typically contains Read more about Twelve Bar Blues[…]

Common Blues Rhythms

After learning the common cowboy chords and strumming patterns many guitar players are unsure how to develop their rhythmic approach to get variety in their sound. Studying the common blues rhythms can add interest and style to your playing no matter what kind of music you play. In this lesson guitarist and composer Michael George Read more about Common Blues Rhythms[…]

Essential Mandolin Chords

Chords in Music Chords in music are like words in a spoken language. When you assemble the ‘right’ combination you make meaningful phrases that have direction. Self-taught students often make the mistake of trying to memorize many chords to grow their chord vocabulary. This approach may work in time, but a better way is to Read more about Essential Mandolin Chords[…]

Music Lesson Forum

I’m excited to announce the new Music Lessons Forum hosted on my website. Register for Free to join the conversation. Post your own topic ideas or questions and Michael will reply with unique insights and ideas to help you learn. It’s in the beginning stages but in the future will have posts geared to musicians Read more about Music Lesson Forum[…]

Build Chords from Scales

Have you ever heard musicians explain the chords to a song with numbers? A guitar player might say something like, “This song is just one, four and five chords in G.” This number system applies to the chords in a given key (or family). Once it’s understood it’s a great tool for learning and memorizing Read more about Build Chords from Scales[…]

Jazz Ukulele Chords: ii-V7-I

Each genre of music has characteristics that distinguish it from other musical styles. Familiar attributes can be found in the scale patterns, rhythms, and/or chord progressions. Three chords in Jazz music occur more than any other combination. They are referred to as “two. five, and one” and exist in all keys. If you play the Read more about Jazz Ukulele Chords: ii-V7-I[…]