Rhythm
A Groove Needs More Than a Steady Beat
A groove grows from repeated accents and contrasting rhythms. Learn a focused listening exercise to hear where the…
All the pieces
All pieces
Browse Active Music Review for fresh ideas about playing, writing, listening while you rehearse and making music with others.
Songcraft
Verse, Chorus or Through-Composed: Choosing a Song Shape
Choosing a song shape starts with its central idea: decide whether return, contrast or unfolding will make the…
Playing
The Left Hand Has a Part to Play
Give your piano left hand a clearer role with practical ways to shape bass notes, chords and accompaniment patterns…
Ensemble
The Quiet Art of Leaving Room in a Band
Leaving room in a band makes each part easier to hear. Learn how rests and reduced parts clarify an arrangement…
Rehearsal
A Rehearsal Plan for a Song That Keeps Losing Its Ending
A rehearsal plan for a song that keeps losing its ending helps a band agree on one clear cue, compare endings calmly…
Why we are here
Music gets interesting when you join in
Active Music Review is for people who want to make music, not just read about it. We focus on choices you can try, hear and adapt to your own practice.