Lesson 22: Combining Whole, Half, and Quarter Notes

What Will You Learn in This Lesson?

In this lesson, for the first time, you’ll be using whole notes, half notes, and quarter notes within a 4-bar loop.

Why Is This Important?

This lesson is important because it introduces the skill of reading and playing three different types of rhythms at the same time. Not only will you be reading six different notes, but you’ll also need to get comfortable switching between these rhythms, which will help you build the foundation needed for tackling more challenging music later on.

How to Practice Effectively:

(Follow these steps in the video)

Step 1: Play the right hand while counting out loud.

Step 2: Play the left hand while counting out loud.

Step 3: Play both hands together and keep counting out loud.

Step 4: Play both hands without counting, but keep the beat steady.

Step 5: Play along with me in the video.

Step 6: Print out the sheet music, restart the video from the beginning, and this time, don’t watch the screen. Instead, just listen to the audio while keeping your eyes on the sheet music.

Additional Tips:

1. Start slow, and as you feel more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo.

2. If you make a mistake, don’t start over from the beginning. Instead, focus on the section where the mistake happened and practice that short part until you can play it 5 times in a row without errors.

3. If you find yourself making random mistakes in different places, you’re likely practicing too fast. If slowing down doesn’t help, slow down even more and try again. Keep adjusting the pace until you can play through the exercise without mistakes.

How Do You Know You’re Ready to Move to the Next Lesson?

Level 1 – Basic: You’ve played through the lesson three times.

Level 2 – Solid: You’ve played through the lesson without mistakes at least three times.

Level 3 – Pro: You’ve played through the lesson perfectly two times in a row.

Fast Track Option:

As soon as you can play this lesson correctly one time, counting out loud and keeping your eyes on the sheet music, you’re all set to move to the next lesson!