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I want to make music when I'm older, but I don't know what I should study to make my music sound better?

I'm in seventh grade, but haven't taken chorus since 5th. I'm going to get back into it next year but what else should I do? I can't take chorus and an instrument at the same time.

Thank you comment icon You have time, there is no time like the present to start again. If this is truly a passion you want to pursue, you can ask around to see if someone has an instrument you can borrow. Youtube has great practice lessons for voice and instruments. There is nothing you can't learn. Daniel Kroll

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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Avery!

What to Study to Improve Your Music Skills

To enhance your music-making abilities, especially at a young age like seventh grade, there are several steps you can take that will help you develop both your musical skills and your understanding of music theory. Here’s a structured approach:

1. Rejoin Chorus and Participate Actively

Since you mentioned that you’re planning to get back into chorus next year, this is an excellent first step. Chorus not only helps improve your vocal skills but also enhances your ability to work with others in a musical context. Singing in a group teaches you about harmony, timing, and the importance of listening to other musicians.

Focus on Vocal Techniques: Pay attention to breathing techniques, pitch control, and dynamics during rehearsals.
Engage with Your Peers: Collaborate with classmates who share similar interests in music; this can lead to informal jam sessions or songwriting partnerships.

2. Learn an Instrument

While you cannot take chorus and an instrument class simultaneously, learning an instrument is crucial for developing your overall musicianship. Consider the following options:

Choose an Instrument You Love: Whether it’s guitar, piano, drums, or another instrument, pick one that excites you.
Self-Study Resources: Use online platforms like YouTube or apps such as Yousician or Simply Piano for self-guided lessons.
Private Lessons: If possible, consider taking private lessons outside of school hours. A teacher can provide personalized feedback and guidance.

3. Study Music Theory

Understanding the fundamentals of music theory will greatly enhance your ability to create and appreciate music. Here’s how to start:

Basic Concepts: Learn about notes, scales, chords, rhythm, and time signatures.
Online Courses: Websites like Coursera or Khan Academy offer free courses on music theory that can be very beneficial.
Practice Writing Music: Start composing simple melodies or chord progressions using the concepts you learn.

4. Explore Different Genres

Listening to various genres of music can inspire your own creativity and help you understand different musical structures:

Diverse Listening Habits: Explore genres such as classical, jazz, rock, pop, hip-hop, etc., and analyze what makes them unique.
Attend Live Performances: If possible, go to concerts or local performances; observing live musicians can provide insights into performance techniques.

5. Collaborate with Others

Collaboration is key in the music industry:

Join School Bands or Clubs: If your school has any bands or music clubs where students collaborate on projects or performances outside of chorus classes.
Find Friends with Similar Interests: Forming small groups for songwriting or playing together can be incredibly beneficial.

6. Utilize Technology

In today’s digital age, technology plays a significant role in music production:

Music Production Software: Familiarize yourself with software like GarageBand (for Mac users) or FL Studio which allows you to create and edit music digitally.
Online Communities: Join forums like Reddit’s r/WeAreTheMusicMakers where aspiring musicians share tips and resources.

7. Set Goals and Stay Committed

Finally, setting specific goals for yourself will keep you motivated:

Short-term Goals: These could include learning a new song each month or mastering a particular technique on your instrument.
Long-term Goals: Think about what kind of musician you want to be in five years—this could guide your studies and practice routines.

By following these steps diligently while maintaining a passion for music creation and performance, you’ll find that your skills will improve significantly over time.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used

1. Berklee College of Music

Berklee offers extensive resources on various aspects of music education including theory and instrumental training tailored for beginners through advanced levels.

2. National Association for Music Education (NAfME)

NAfME provides guidelines on best practices in music education including the benefits of ensemble participation such as chorus.

3. Coursera

This platform offers access to courses from top universities covering topics such as music theory which are essential for aspiring musicians looking to deepen their understanding of music composition.

Probability the answer is correct: 95%

God Bless!
JC.
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Angel’s Answer

To make your music sound better, you should focus on learning an instrument and studying music theory. Start with something you're interested in, like piano or guitar, as these can help with both composition and understanding music. You can also explore music production software to experiment with sounds. Online resources, apps, and even local workshops can supplement your learning. Keep practicing, and get back into chorus when you can—it will help with ear training and vocal skills!
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Fernando’s Answer

It's fantastic to hear that you're reigniting your passion for chorus! Since juggling chorus and an instrument simultaneously can be challenging, here are some uplifting suggestions:

1. Harmonize at Home: Enjoy practicing your favorite tunes and give karaoke tracks on YouTube a whirl. It's an exciting way to discover the range of your voice.

2. Master an Instrument Independently: There's no need for a formal class—grab an accessible instrument like a ukulele, guitar, or keyboard and experiment at your leisure.

3. Participate in a Local Choir or Ensemble: Should there be a community choir or similar group in your vicinity, it could provide an enjoyable opportunity to harmonize with others.

4. Utilize Online Resources: There's a wealth of free tutorials available online for singing, music theory, or even basic instrument lessons.

5. Delve into Diverse Music: Venture into various genres and observe how singers utilize their voices—it's a brilliant source of inspiration.

6. Engage in Vocal Warm-Ups: Research some exercises to fortify your voice and enhance your vocal range.

It's admirable that you're planning ahead—chorus is going to be an exhilarating journey! Stay persistent and keep up the good work!
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Daniel’s Answer

Take your time and be gentle with yourself as you navigate the world of music. Dive into music theory and make it a habit to play a variety of instruments as frequently as possible. Train your ear by actively listening to music, identifying elements that you enjoy in a song and considering how you might approach it differently.

Over time, you'll start to understand your own musical preferences and discover your strengths. Concentrate on these areas. While it's beneficial to explore a wide range of music, remember that it's impossible to master everything at once.

Furthermore, consider dipping your toes into the realm of music recording. There's a wealth of free resources available to help you record and customize your music. You may find that you enjoy this process even more than playing an instrument.

Expand your knowledge by learning about different roles in the music industry, such as audio engineers, monitor technicians, and music producers. The music world is vast and offers numerous opportunities, so don't restrict yourself by thinking you can only do one thing.
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Ishan’s Answer

Anyone interested in creating music has two simple ways - learn music theory and craft in academic ways like majority or learn music theory and then unlearn everything to make sure you are creating music and not crafting it using the regular ways.
Many of the great musical works breaks almost all the so called theory and rules of music. Translating your real memories and the embedded emotions of those memories into music is a pure creation and that is what matters in the end. This way your work becomes you.
This is of course one way of looking at it, which works for me, feel free to find yours.
All the very best.
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Leon’s Answer

Do not let your school's limitations be yours. Of course you can sing and work on instrumental music at the same time. In my community there are non-profit organizations that provide music education opportunities either free or at a low cost. I was the beneficiary of this through high school, and I was able to hone my instrumental skills. I also got the oppportunity to develop as a performer as well.

It is easier to find opportunities to sing, because there is no need for an instrument. Also near me is Rutgers University, Newark campus. The Rutgers Chorus is housed there and takes non-student singers. Since students are receiving credit for the activity, you get the added benefit of professional vocal training during rehearsals. Look for opportunities like this at schools, music schools, civic groups, religious organizations and others. Some may include instruments to use as a member of the ensemble. Can your parents afford an entry level instrument? Can your family afford private lessons? If your interest is piano or guitar, there are now high quality instruments at very affordable prices. You can pay as little as $500 for a new Casio or Yamaha digital PIANO. I do not recommend the "keyboard" or synthesizer type keyboards. The quality of the sound and the touch are not authentic. A new entry-level acoustic (I recommend classical) guitar can be $150 or less. If you find a good quality used instrument your family will save even more.

Talk to your parents. Talk to your music teachers about your options. If at all possible, develop your talent away from the limitations of your school. The teachers, administrators and staff there will be paid regardless of how your life turns out. Most of the time, they do just what is necessary to get a paycheck. You are trying to build your life around something you love. This is your life. Eventually, you will learn that you and only you are responsible for where you find yourself.

And even if you do not end up pursuing music, find something you love doing, become so proficient at it that people are willing to pay you to do it. You will never work a day in your life.
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Dr’s Answer

Hey Avery! 🎶

It’s awesome that you’re already thinking about how to make your music sound better and that you’ve got big dreams for your music future! Here’s a little guide to help you get started and rock that musical career (without missing a beat)!

1. Get Back Into Chorus! 🎤
Why?: You’ve already got the right idea by planning to return to chorus next year! Chorus will help you with vocal techniques and understanding music theory (the fun stuff that makes all your notes and rhythms make sense). Plus, singing in a group is a blast—it's like a mini concert every time! 🎉
Pro Tip: Don’t worry if you can’t take an instrument and chorus at the same time. You can always practice your voice in your free time, or even hum tunes while you’re doing homework! 🎶💡

2. Pick Up an Instrument! 🎸🎹🎻
Why?: Learning an instrument will help you understand melody, harmony, and rhythm—basically the building blocks of music. It’ll also help you know how to arrange songs when you get to the stage of writing your own!
Instrument Ideas: If you’re into making cool melodies and beats, try learning piano or guitar (they’re super versatile and can be used for all sorts of music styles!). If you’re into rhythm and beats, go for drums or percussion!

3. Music Production Software (DAWs)! 💻🎧
Why?: If you want to make your music sound even cooler, learning a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is key! These are the tools used to create music on a computer, where you can record, mix, and add effects. It’s like your digital music playground. 🎮
Pro Tip: Start with something simple like GarageBand (it's free and super fun to use), or if you want to go all out later, try Ableton Live or FL Studio. There are tons of online tutorials to help you create anything from pop hits to electronic music! 🔥

4. Learn Basic Music Theory! 🎵
Why?: Knowing music theory helps you understand how songs are put together. Even if you’re not super into reading music, just knowing a little bit about scales, chords, and how melodies work will help you compose your own music and make it sound AMAZING. 🌟
Pro Tip: You don’t need to become a music genius overnight! Just start with the basics (like learning major and minor scales, and understanding how chords are built), and let the music magic flow! ✨

5. Practice, Practice, Practice! 🎶
Why?: Whether it’s your voice or an instrument, the more you practice, the better you’ll get. Plus, the cool thing about music is that you can experiment with different styles and sounds as you improve. 🎸🎤
Pro Tip: Try learning your favorite songs or composing short melodies. It’ll be fun and will help your skills grow faster than you can say “superstar”! 💫

6. Join a Band or Music Group! 🎤🎸🎶
Why?: If you can’t do chorus and an instrument at the same time, maybe join a band or a smaller group. Playing music with other people will teach you how to work with others, improve your timing, and make you feel like a true musical artist! You’ll also learn how to perform and have the audience totally vibing with you! 😎
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a band yet, start with some friends who are also into music! You could even join a local school band or after-school music club.

7. Experiment with Songwriting! ✍️🎶
Why?: If you want your music to stand out, try writing your own songs! Experiment with lyrics, melodies, and rhythms. You don’t have to be perfect, just creative!
Pro Tip: Write down whatever comes to your mind—ideas for songs, cool rhymes, or even just a fun beat. You never know what could turn into your next big hit! 💥
Bonus Fun: Make It Your Own! 🎧🎤

Think about what makes your music unique. Is it your voice? Your crazy guitar skills? The way you mix beats? Being original is key—don't worry if it doesn't sound like anyone else, because your sound is your magic! ✨

You're on the right path to being the next musical genius! Keep singing, learning an instrument, experimenting with production, and just having FUN with it all. 🎶 Whether you're on a stage or in your bedroom recording, there are no limits to what you can create. 🎤🎧 So go out there and make your music soar!

Remember: You got this, future superstar! 🌟🎶 Let me know if you need more tips or if you want to share what kind of music you’re into! 😊
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Saint’s Answer

Hey Avery,

That’s awesome that you want to make music! Getting back into chorus is a great start—it’ll help with your singing and harmonies.
Since you can’t take both chorus and an instrument, maybe pick one instrument to focus on, like guitar or piano. Both are super helpful for songwriting and will definitely improve your music skills.
Also, learning some basic music theory can make a huge difference. It’ll help you understand how songs are built, and you can find free lessons online, especially on YouTube.
Most importantly, start writing songs! Even if they’re not perfect at first, it’s a great way to practice and get better.
And remember, listening to a lot of music will help you figure out your style and get inspired. Keep practicing, stay curious, and have fun with it! You’ve got this!

Cheers!

Saint
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Mark’s Answer

Hi Avery, one thing to consider in the arts is it’s a constant process of improvement. Meaning you will always feel your music can be better. Some artists have an unhealthy relationship with this process. I would recommend that early on you get used to enjoying the process of evolution and not be too judgmental. Sometimes we’re documenting our lives while we’re living them. They’re an audio photograph. Don’t throw anything out completely or treat an idea you’re moving on from as trash. Some ideas may not ever get out side your studio, but they’re just as important in the process.

On a technical level I can tell you studying with a mentor can alleviate a lot of confusion and frustration. Also, even though it’s not as popular these days reading music can help in too many ways to explain. Learning techniques for the instruments you play, learning music theory for the genres of music you like and understanding how to read and write music can give you all the power you need to take an idea you have and make it better.

The creative process is often the following;
Create a raw idea from your mind
Use music theory to expand or fix your idea
Music technique to execute your ideas.
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Eric Scott’s Answer

I'm not sure which school you're at, but I managed to play football, hockey, take shop class, pretend to be a swimmer (even though I wasn't), hang out with friends, finish my school work, have a girlfriend or two (LOL), work at the local Pizza Hut, and still spend time with my family. I even beat my dad in video games and my mom in bowling. Why can't you do both activities at once? Are the practices scheduled on the same day? If they overlap, I get it—you can't be in two places at once. But if they don't, let us know why you can't do both. They actually complement each other, and many people manage to juggle both in life because they often intersect. You can do it!
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