McMusic Lessons Blog

Master the Melancholy: How to Play Alice in Chains’ “Nutshell”

​Alice in Chains’ “Nutshell” is one of the most hauntingly beautiful and emotionally resonant songs in rock history. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first “moody” track or an experienced player wanting to nail that iconic atmosphere, this guide and tutorial video McMusic Lessons & Performances will walk you through the essentials.

Online Music Lessons with Live Video Chat & Step-by-Step Practice Outlines

Whether you’re a beginner picking up an instrument for the first time or a seasoned player looking to break through a plateau, the “how” of your practice matters just as much as the “what.”

Master the Blues: Hendrix’s “Red House” – Introductory Guitar Lesson

​The opening notes of Jimi Hendrix’s “Red House” are iconic—a masterclass in 12/8 blues phrasing, soulful bends, and raw emotion. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into blues-rock or an experienced player wanting to polish your Hendrix style, our latest introductory lesson breaks down the foundational licks you need to know.

Learn Your First Song on Piano: “Lean On Me” Made Easy

​Are you just starting your piano journey? One of the best ways to keep yourself motivated is to move beyond simple exercises and start playing recognizable songs. In a recent lesson from McMusic Lessons & Performances, we break down the classic anthem “Lean On Me” into simple steps that any beginner can master.

Mastering the Classics: A Journey Through “Buddy Bolden Blues”

​New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and its early history is synonymous with the legendary Buddy Bolden. While Bolden never recorded his music, his legacy is captured in some of the most enduring compositions in the jazz and blues canons. One of the most famous pieces attributed to him is the “Buddy Bolden Blues” (also known as “I Thought I Heard Buddy Bolden Say”).

The Wait is Over: Trial Music Lessons are Back at McMusic Lessons!

​Finding the right music instructor is a lot like finding the right pair of shoes—it has to be the perfect fit. After a long hiatus, I am thrilled to announce that Trial Lessons are officially back at McMusic Lessons & Performances!

How to play Shape of My Heart by Sting

Whether you’re a beginner looking to expand your repertoire or an intermediate player refining your fingerpicking technique, Sting’s “Shape of My Heart” is a quintessential piece to master. In a recent tutorial from McMusic Lessons & Performances, we get a deep dive into the specific fingerings and textures that make this song so iconic.