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…
Author: Helena Papapostolou
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…
Scales, Keys & Modes: A Clear Guide for Music Students
In Western tonal Music, the concept of scale, key, and mode form the structural basis of pitch organisation. In this article, we will explore the difference between these terms and use practical examples to make each concept easy to understand. What is a Scale? A scale is a sequence of musical pitches arranged within one…
Online Music Theory & Piano Lessons
Contemporary-Classical piano & Music Theory lessons with a clear, step-by-step program – for beginners and returning players. Want to finally play the songs you love? Join my piano and music theory program and get a personalised, step-by-step plan that teaches both technique and musical thinking. Contemporary pop, film music, jazz, blues, rock & roll or…
Chapter 2: Understanding Enharmonic Scales, Theoretical Keys & the Circle of Fifths
After learning about major scales with sharps and flats, it is time to explore enharmonic scales. Understanding these scales is essential to fully grasp the Circle of Fifths and how all key signatures relate. Enharmonic Scales Now that we have analysed major scales and their key signatures with sharps and flats, let’s talk about enharmonic…
Chapter 1: Understanding Key Signatures in Major Scales and the Circle of Fifths
Key signatures inform the performer about the scale and key in which a piece of music is written. They are a set or series of sharps or flats and they appear at the beginning of a musical staff, right after the time signature. Each key signature defines a specific tonality and indicates which notes stay…
Free Grade 1 Rhythmic Solfege Printable PDF Pack for Beginners
Kickstart your music theory journey with our free Grade 1 Rhythmic Solfege Printable PDF pack! Designed for young learners and beginners, this set includes 4 engaging rhythmic solfege printables to help you master the basics of rhythm and solfege. These free music theory printables are perfect for home or classroom use, offering a fun way…
Learn Piano Online – Classical, Blues, Rock & More!
Are you searching for online piano lessons that go beyond the basics? I’m Helena – a professional piano teacher and music theory tutor with over 16 years of experience helping students become confident, expressive musicians. I teach music you actually want to play – from elegant classical piano masterpieces to the soulful groove of blues,…
1. What is Music?
What is Music? Ever tapped your foot to a song or hummed a tune stuck in your head? That’s music at work! But what is music, really? It’s more than just noise – it’s sound with a purpose, organized using the elements of music to make is feel something! Defining Music For centuries, people have…