Sing Theory

Chord Functions

Music tells stories, even without words. One of the most powerful ways it does this is through chord functions—grouping chords by their role in a key: tonic, subdominant, and dominant. When you understand these groups, you can think of your music as a narrative, with a beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

The Colors of Modes

Discover the vibrant world of modes, where each one is a unique color that adds emotional depth to your music. Long before the concepts of major and minor, composers used modes to create distinct tonal centers and feelings. Today, these modes are making a comeback, offering fresh sounds for contemporary music. Instead of memorizing scales, think of modes as tools for painting with sound. Whether you’re looking to add brightness or depth to your compositions, understanding modes can transform your musical expression. Dive in and explore how these musical colors can elevate your creativity!

Connecting Songs with Pivot and Passing Chords

Unlock the secret to seamless musical transitions! Have you ever felt a song change was abrupt or jarring? You’re not alone. Discover how pivot and passing chords can transform your performances, creating a smooth flow between songs. Imagine effortlessly moving from a familiar C major progression to a new harmonic world, all while keeping your audience engaged. Learn how to use shared chords as doorways and introduce tension that propels your music forward. Dive into the art of connecting musical ideas and elevate your performances to new heights. Ready to captivate your listeners? Read on!

How to be an Active Listener

Women listening to music

Have you ever practiced listening to music? What does that even mean? Listening to music is often treated as a passive activity: you sit or stand while music is played at you, whether in person or through speakers. Your ears hear what’s coming at you whether you’re trying to hear or not. Because of the […]

Top Ear-Training Apps of 2025

Women Singing on thumbnail next to article title

The problem is that there are dozens of ear-training apps out there, so choosing one and being consistent (which is the most critical part) can become quite complex.