In the world of music theory, harmonic intervals are the building blocks of every chord we hear. Understanding how these intervals work, and how they resolve, is the key to creating emotional tension and release in the pieces we study, analyse, or even compose. What are Harmonic Intervals? A harmonic interval, as we have already…
Author: Helena Papapostolou
Chapter 4: Diatonic & Chromatic Intervals
In music theory, the distinction is based on whether an interval occurs naturally within the Major and Minor Scales or if it requires “artificial” chromatic. (SOS: See the note at the end of the post!) 1. Interval of a 2nd 2. Interval of a 3rd 3. Intervals of a 4th & 5th (The “Universal” Diatonics)…
Chapter 2: Simple & Compound Musical Intervals
What is a Musical Intervals? Beyond the numerical names (size) (αριθμητικό μέγεθος ή γένος) of musical intervals, which show the distance between two notes, we can see that a C-E sounds different from a C-Eb. (You can find these in Chapter 1). This happens because they have a different number of tones and semitones. This…
What is Solfège?
Solfège is a music system that connects every musical pitch with a specific syllable. By giving each note a “name”, we make it singable. This simple connection is one of the best ways to improve your musical skills. Why is Solfège Important? This system is like a workout for your musical brain. It helps you…
The Lyricism of Manos Hadjidakis: “Tragoudi” from Ionian Suite
My journey with the piano music of Manos Hadjidakis has been long and deeply personal. Throughout my studies, I have of performed his most iconic cycles in concerts. From the delicate textures of For a Little White Seashell and the folkloric charm of Six Popular Pictures, to the complex structures of Rhythmology. Among these pieces, the Ionian Suite holds a special place in…
Happy Twin Peaks Day – 24/2
“Diane, 11:30 AM, February 24th. Entering the town of Twin Peaks.” With those iconic words, Special Agent Dale Cooper drove into a new world. It was a world of good coffee, cherry pies, and a mystery that would haunt us forever: Who killed Laura Palmer? But as Cooper began his investigation into the tragic death of the…
The Architecture of “Crystal Silence”: A Structural Analysis of Chick Corea’s Masterpiece
I have recently been listening and re-practicing “Crystal Silence” by Chick Corea. Originally, Chick recorded this in 1972 on the iconic Return to Forever album with electric piano and vibraphonist Gary Burton. Today this piece remains an all-time classic. Burton’s use of the four-mallet technique (1) allowed the vibes to shimmer like light hitting glass, a perfect match for Chick’s “floating”…
Chapter 1: The Middle Ages: The Beginning of Polyphony
Time period: 6th century (c. 450) – 1450 AD After the fall of the Roman Empire and the establishment of Christianity across the European continent, Europe entered a long period often described as one of stagnation. The Crusades, the invasions of barbarian tribes, the Hundred Years’ War between England and France, poor living conditions, and…
Early Christian Church Music: East & West (1st-6th Century)
Introduction During the first six centuries of Christianity, church music played a central role in worship. It was not secular and carried a theological message. The music was monophonic, consisting of a single melodic line, and it did not use instruments. The rhythm followed the text, and music was transmitted mainly by oral tradition. Initially,…
Listening Guide for the Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert
Happy New Year 2026 Wishing you a year full of health, happiness, creativity, and beautiful music. The new year begins with the elegant and joyful melodies of the Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert, one of the most beloved classical music events worldwide. Every January 1st, music lovers welcome the year with waltzes, polkas, galops, and…