Kraus's Korner on PGI Radio
By Dirk Kraus
Kraus's Korner on PGI Radio Dec 01, 2020
Seriously, circle the Time Signature!
Listen as Dirk discusses the importance of marking your music. It makes the students life much easier! Find out how.
How do I practice?
Kraus talks through different strategies for practicing. Focusing on the more intermediate players. Is your perception that your song is too hard? Then this episode is for you! Need more guidance in your practice, visit the PGI website.
What makes a successful virtual music lesson?
Dirk talks through all the things that teachers and students need to bring to the table in order to have a great lesson. If you are a teacher or a student you don't want to miss this episode.
Recording is hard!
Listen as Kraus explains why recording your music is so beneficial, and hard to do!
Yup!!! They are the Greatest Rock-n-Roll band ever!
There it is!! With the first studio album in nearly 20 years the Rolling Stones remind us of how good they are. From the simplicity of blues riffs to the quintessential Rolling Stones sound, the latest album by The Rolling Stones delivers. They are completely deserving of the title "The Greatest Rock-n-Roll Band Ever"
But I don't want to Count Out Loud!
Listen in as Kraus discusses the importance of counting out loud. Whether you are a student, teacher or professional musician, everyone must count out loud.
What age should my little people start piano lessons?
Kraus will tell us how young children should start their musical journey. The answer may surprise you!
Review: The Benefits of Music
Listen as Kraus reminds us all the benefits of learning a musical instrument.
The Greatest Rock-n-Roll band in the world is?
Listen in as Kraus tells you who gets the title of the greatest Rock band in the history! The answer may surprise you! Once you listen you will see there is really only one band that truly deserves this title of the Greatest Ever. If you have been following this podcast, you most likely already know the answer. If not listen to Episode 5: Now that's a guitarist and you will definitely see more clearly why this choice was made. If you are looking to enhance you guitar or piano skills, or are eager to begin your own musical journey, then you need to check out Piano & Guitar Institute, or World's Best Piano Lessons to further or begin your quest!
It takes two! A closer look at some of the greatest songwriting duos.
Listen as Kraus talks about some of the greatest songwriting duos. What made them so great. Do they really need to pair up to write the music they wrote. Can either one of the pair survive without the other? Visit our sponsor World's Best Piano Lessons to get started on your musical journey today.
How do you decide what is your favorite? The age old question, What is Music?
Listen in as Kraus continues a multi week discussion on trying to decide what it is about music that drives us to listen to more of the same artist or composer. Is it just a popularity contest, meaning we listen to what our friends listen to? Or do we really appreciate well written songs. Why are some classical composers talked about more frequently than their contemporaries? Are some musicians just better than others. Maybe the ultimate answer is found within oneself?
If you are interested in learning to play your favorite songs on piano or guitar, contact Piano & Guitar Institute. They have lessons for every level and every age of student.
Iron Maiden or Metallica? Bach or Scarlatti? Why do you like the music you do?
Listen in as Kraus begins a multi week discussion on trying to decide what it is about music that drives us to listen to more of the same artist or composer. Is it just a popularity contest, meaning we listen to what our friends listen to? Or do we really appreciate well written songs. Why are some classical composers talked about more frequently than their contemporaries? Are some musicians just better than others. Maybe the ultimate answer is found within oneself?
If you are interested in learning to play your favorite songs on piano or guitar, contact Piano & Guitar Institute. They have lessons for every level and every age of student.
Our goal as piano/guitar teachers is?
Listen in as Kraus talks about the primary focus of piano/guitar teachers. You might be surprised to hear his take on getting songs performance ready. What is the secret to teaching students to actually read the music? What about musicality and performance ability? You don't want to miss this episode if you are a student, teacher, or just a music lover! If you are ready to start your musical journey contact Piano & Guitar Institute. They have every type of lesson you could need, from in person to virtual, from video lessons to a hybrid of any of the three. You don't want to wait to get started!
Reading a lead sheet. It's a lot harder than you think!
Listen in as Kraus talks about reading music via fake books and lead sheets. Learning to read music is one thing. How does this apply to reading a lead sheet. Sometimes a lead sheet may seem easier than a Beethoven sonata, but once you get into it, a lead sheet is a complex beast that requires an extensive knowledge of scales, chords, rhythms and theory. Looking to learn more, check out Piano & Guitar Institute and start your musical journey today!
Does performing ever get easier?
Listen in as Kraus discusses why performing is such a great thing and why it is so nerve-racking! Performing should be fun and exciting! It should not be a source of stress. Are you interested in trying a performance out yourself? Get started on your musical adventure and begin piano or guitar lessons now. Contact Piano & Guitar Institute now to find out how you can get started.
To Metronome or not to Metronome?
Listen as Kraus talks about the benefits of practicing with and without a metronome. How does the metronome affect the cognitive ability to memorize your music? Muscle memory versus cognitive memory, which should you rely on when you perform? All this is discussed in the latest episode of Kraus's Korner! If you are interested in learning piano or guitar, make sure to check our Piano & Guitar Institute or World's Best Piano Lessons!
Online music lessons, what a great idea!
Listen in as Kraus talks about the construct of what an online music lesson should look like. Experienced in online teaching since 2017, there are many things that may seem important, and other things that may seem unimportant. From camera angle, microphone and camera to marking the music, what is most impportant and how do we make things happen. As a student or a teacher, learn which variables are the easiest to control and what obstacles are a challenge to overcome with a virtual lesson. If you are interested in online lessons, be sure to contact Piano & Guitar Institute. Their online lesson department is experienced in quality lessons while keeping learning fun! Nothing should keep you from beginning or continuing your musical journey!
Music Theory, That's a wrap.
Listen as Kraus discusses what happens when you combine different patterns that have been discussed the last few weeks. How can you decide which chords to use if you are using multiple patterns. Which one gets priority? It all becomes quite clear as this last episode on music theory unfolds. If you are interested in learning more about music theory and how it applies to piano, check out World's Best Piano Lessons, and get started on your own musical journey today.
ii-V-I It's that easy!
Listen in as Kraus talks about another 3 chord formula that is used to create some of your favorite music. This time the discussion gets a little more in depth as we explain how to build the chords, how they travel to and from each other, and where they can go next. If you are interested in learning piano in the comfort of your own home check our World's Best Piano Lessons. If you want to learn how to improvise as discussed in this episode check out Piano & Guitar Institute.
Fast forward to the 70's and 80's and we have another three chord formula!
Listen in as Kraus discusses yet another 3 chord formula used in pop music. Is it based on the natural minor scale or the major scale. Is this pattern based in metal, pop, or country? You decide!!! If you are interested in learning to read music, play the piano, or play the guitar, check out Piano & Guitar Institute. Virtual lessons or in person lessons. YOU DECIDE!!
I know, let's add a fourth chord!
Listen as Kraus discusses more music theory and how knowing the formulas will help you compose and learn your favorite songs! The genre of 50's American pop rock is discussed and how the addition of the fourth chord makes this just different enough than other genres to warrant a discussion, but not so different that it is no longer used as a formula. If you would like to learn to play your favorite songs check out World's Best Piano Lessons! Piano lessons in your home on your time!
Blues Theory: Simplicity at it's finest.
Blues music has been around for nearly 200 years. Where did it come from? What makes is so popular? Why is it always so sad? Listen as Kraus discusses these and other questions about Blues Music. He explains the simplicity behind an incredibly complex genre. Are you a Delta Blues, or Chicago Blues fan? Decide for yourself after you listen to some of the recommendations! If you are interested in learning to play the Blues, or any other genre of music, check out World's Best Piano Lessons, or Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 1: The beginning, what is Music Theory and How does it work in the music we love?
Listen as Kraus talks about the basics of music theory. He discusses how theory began, how it is applied to all forms of music. Theory in pop music? of course! Theory is everywhere, whether for composing your own song, or making sense of what your favorite musicians are doing. Want to learn more about music theory? Maybe learn to play the piano? Check out Worlds Best Piano Lessons.
Yep, Music did it again!
Listen as Kraus continues the conversation about how music affects you. Recounting a 17 Hippies concert from December 30, 2022. A Berlin band, that Kraus saw perform live in Belin! 11 musicians on stage, 9, sometimes 10 melodic instruments creating a fantastic harmony! What an amazing concert! Do you want to learn to play Piano like your favorite musicians. Check out World's Best Piano Lessons.
Really?! That is what makes a great student?
Have you ever thought about what makes a really great student? How do students learn most efficiently? Listen as Kraus talks about what students should do to help facilitate their learning. You might be surprised by some of his opinions! Want to be a student of your own? Check out World's Best Piano Lessons.
How can music do that?
Bach is the same as Heavy Metal? Are you kidding me?
Don't miss this episode!!! Kraus talks about the similarities between the great Baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach and '80s heavy metal music. There is a combo you didn't see comin'! So you want to shred on the guitar like '80s metal bands? Check out Piano and Guitar Institute to see their latest tuition specials.
The Big Four, plus one honorable mention
Don't miss this episode where Kraus talk about the 4 composers that changed the world of music. Did your favorite composer make the list? How would you like to play some of the music composed by these guys? Check out Piano & Guitar Institute.
Episode 10: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 21st Century, now that is a ton of music!!
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 9: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1990's, the decade of flannel.
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 8: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1980's, like totally gnarly dude!
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 7: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1970's, if it is too loud, you are too old!
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Stories about Christmas music from a teachers point of view.
Listen in as Kraus shares stories from years gone by about playing Christmas music with his students. If you are interested in learning to play the piano so you too can play Christmas music, check out Piano and Guitar Institute.
Episode 6: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1960's. The Music Festival.
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 5: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1960's
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 4: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1960's
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 3: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1960's
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 2: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create. The 1950's
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present. Be sure to visit our sponsor Piano & Guitar Institute!
Episode 1: A look at the counter culture music creates, and the music counter cultures create
Welcome to an extraordinary journey! Kraus will be discussing many musical styles and the cultures created because of them. As well as discussing many genres of music that stem from what came before. This Multi-episode series will be a fascinating look into all forms of pop music from the 1950's to the present.
But What Instrument should my 3 year old play?
With so many choices, which instrument is best for your little musician? Kraus talks about the benefits of two instruments that are easy for little fingers to play at an early age.
Who is the real Seventh Son?
Listen as Kraus talks through Iron Maiden's Seventh Son of a Seventh Son album and shows how a song cycle works.
All those forms in Pop/Rock music
Listen as Kraus explains how the musical forms discussed in the past few episodes are applied to pop music. Including that of The Who, Billy Joel and Queensryche.
Suite, Sonata, Song Cycle. Same or Different?
Listen as Kraus talks about what makes up the musical for of Suite, Sonata and Song Cycles. See how they are the same and how they are different.
Opera? Really?
Listen in as Kraus talks about the history of Opera and all the various forms of Opera. From early Madrigal Cycles to Wagner's Ring Cycle. Don't miss this episode!
So many forms, so little time!
How many forms, or styles of music can there really be? How does "Classical" music relate to rock or pop music? Tune in and find out what Kraus has to say about it.
Episode 5: Now that is a guitarist!
Finally the band is all together. This is the final installment of the super group series. In this episode we find out who the guitarist will be. Tune in to see if you agree.
Episode 4: I'm just a singer in a Rock-n-Roll Band
Who is going to be the lead singer and front man for Kraus's super group? You don't want to miss this episode to find out.
Episode 3: Now that's a rhythm section
Our super group is almost put together! This week Dirk lets you know who the bass player will be for the band.
Episode 2: The band is getting together.
Listen as Dirk adds another member to our super band. This week we find our who is going to drum for this fantasy band.
Episode 1 Best Rock Band Ever
And away we go!!! Listen as Dirk starts to compile the members of the greatest Rock n Roll Band ever. This episode he begins by naming the Keyboard player. Tune and and see if you agree.