Must-Know Music Terms For Parents

Table of Content

1. The Basics of Music Theory
2. Reading Music Notation 
3. Dynamics 
4. Rhythm and Tempo 
5. Instruments and Their Compositions 
6. Singing Specific Terms 
7. Genres and Style 
8. Performance-Related Terms
9. Practice Tips for Parents
10. Why Choose Online Music Classes with Artium Academy?

Intrdocution

Music education can be an enticing journey for children but as a parent, understanding music terms can often feel like learning a new language. If your child is exploring their musical side through online music classes, you may find yourself encountering unfamiliar music terms. In this blog, we will break down those terms, helping you support your child’s musical growth and make informed decisions as they progress in their musical journey.

But before that…

If you’re really excited to start your journey in music, start with a free trial lesson today!

Whether your child is just beginning or already playing an instrument, knowing these terms will enhance your understanding and appreciation of their efforts. Let’s dive into some essential music terms for parents.

1. The Basics of Music Theory 

Understanding the basics of music theory can give you clarity about what your child is learning in their online singing classes. 

• Note: A note is the basic unit of music, meaning a single sound. Think of it as a building block of melodies and harmonies.
• Pitch: This refers to how high or low a note sounds.
• Scale: A scale is a series of notes positioned in a specific order, like the major or minor scales essential in Western music.
• Chord: A group of notes played together, creating harmony. For example, a C major chord includes the notes C, E and G.
  

2. Reading Music Notation 

Music notation can feel difficult at first but it is important when you are learning to play and understand music. 

• Staff: The set of five horizontal lines and four spaces where music notes are written.
• Clef: A symbol at the beginning of the staff that shows the pitch range, like the treble clef for higher notes and the bass clef for lower notes.
• Time Signature: Two numbers at the start of a piece of music that indicate the rhythm, like 4/4, which means four beats per measure.
• Key Signature: Sharps (#) or flats (♭) at the beginning of the staff that tell you the key of the music.

3. Dynamics 

Dynamics are the volume variations in music. They bring emotion and expressions to a performance. 

• Piano (p): Play softly.
• Forte (f): Play loudly.
• Crescendo (<): Gradually get louder.
• Decrescendo (>): Gradually get softer.

4. Rhythm and Tempo 

Rhythm is the heartbeat of music, while tempo sets the speed.

• Beat: The steady pulse you tap your foot to in music.
• Tempo: The speed of the beat, indicated by terms like Allegro (fast) or Adagio (slow).
• Meter: How beats are grouped in a measure, such as 3/4 for a waltz or 4/4 for most pop songs.
• Syncopation: A rhythm that highlights off-beats or spontaneous beats, common in jazz and modern genres.

Understanding rhythm helps parents understand the complexity of pieces their child may be learning in online singing classes or instrumental lessons.

5. Instruments and Their Compositions 

If your child is learning an instrument, you might come across terms related to their parts and maintenance. 

• Strings: On instruments like the guitar or violin, these produce sound when plucked or strummed.
• Keys: Found on instruments like the piano, keys are pressed to make notes.
• Tuning: Adjusting the pitch of an instrument to make sure it’s in harmony with others.

At Artium Academy, we offer online lessons for a variety of instruments with musical experts, ensuring students and parents understand these basics. 

6. Singing Specific Terms 

If your child is exploring vocals through online singing lessons, there are some terms that are most commonly used:

• Range: The span of notes a singer can comfortably sing, from lowest to highest.
• Pitch Accuracy: The ability to sing or play the correct notes.
• Timbre: The unique quality or tone of a voice, often described as bright, warm, or rich.
• Breath Support: Using proper breathing techniques to sustain notes and improve vocal performance.

7. Genres and Style 

Music education often includes learning different genres so that children can explore diverse styles of music. 

• Classical: Rooted in traditions of Western music, often involving complex compositions and orchestras.
• Jazz: A genre characterized by improvisation and swing rhythms.
• Pop: Short for “popular music,” it’s catchy and widely appealing.
• Carnatic and Hindustani: Classical music styles from India that focus on melody (ragas) and rhythm (talas).

Explore these various styles of music at Artium Academy and choose one that matches your musical aspirations. 

8. Performance-Related Terms

Here are some common performance-related words that you might come across when your child is performing.

• Repertoire: The collection of pieces a musician is prepared to perform.
• Encore: A piece performed at the audience’s request after the official program ends.
• Stage Presence: The ability to captivate an audience through confident and expressive performance.
• Accompaniment: Supporting music that complements the main melody or soloist.

Practice Tips for Parents 

Now that you have the basics clear, here’s how you can help your child practice:

1. Set Goals: Help them focus on mastering one term or concept at a time.
2. Use Visual Aids: Diagrams of the staff, clefs, and notes can strengthen what they learn in class.
3. Encourage Questions: No term is too small to clarify with their instructor. At Artium Academy, our teachers are always open to helping students and parents.
4. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge small wins, like perfecting a scale or improving their pitch.

Why Choose Online Music Classes with Artium Academy?

If your child is passionate about music, enrolling in Artium Academy’s online music classes can provide a structured yet flexible learning experience. With our expert instructors and personalized attention, your child can learn at their own pace. From foundational skills to advanced techniques, our programs cater to all levels. By understanding these music terms for parents, you’ll feel more confident supporting your child’s journey.

Conclusion 

Navigating your child’s musical journey doesn’t have to be daunting. With a solid grasp of these terms, you’re better equipped to encourage, support, and celebrate their progress. As your child takes on this beautiful journey, consider the role of professional guidance from trusted institutions like ours. 

So, why wait? Take the first step in empowering your child’s musical dreams. Explore the possibilities of online singing classes with Artium Academy. Let’s make learning music an enriching and joyous experience for your family.