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3 Best Ways to Increase Your Musical Proclivity

Music has provided joy and entertainment to humans for centuries. Whether through singing or playing instruments, there’s a lot to gain from taking a music lesson or two. With the current percentage of adults in the U.S. that play an instrument at around 34%, according to ABRSM, many may be searching for ways to improve musical proclivity. If you’re one of those adults who wants to improve your musical talents, read on for a few ideas on how to do so.

1. Take Music Lessons

The easiest way to do so is, of course, with a music lesson. If you’re unsure about signing up for regular lessons just yet, try an initial workshop to get the feel for it. From there, you may be comfortable taking regular lessons. You can also contact a music teacher to see how they structure their classes.

2. Listen to Different Genres of Music

Most people have a favorite genre or sub they prefer to listen to. However, if you’re serious about expanding your musical talents, try to get an ear for different genres and styles. By opening up your mind and your ears to different music, you can easily learn more about performance, composition, and past performers you may not have heard of. By doing so, you may be giving yourself an informal music lesson. Certain genres, such as folk music, often provide more opportunities to collaborate with other musicians or start out playing in small bands to get your feet wet.

3. Talk to Other Musicians

Like any other profession or skill set, one of the best ways to gain knowledge and new techniques is to talk to others in the field. From other amateurs to professionals, you can get tons of advice and inspiration. They may be able to help you learn better techniques or easier ways to play your instrument. Frequenting a music store like Lane Music is a great place to find like-minded people.

When it comes to expanding your musical productivity, you have many ways to go about it. You can take a formal or informal music lesson by dealing with professional teachers or listening to other genres. Talk to other musicians and attend live shows. If you’re an adult interested in learning more about expanding your musical talents, contact Lane Music for a music lesson today.

Should You Enroll Your Child in Music Lessons?

There are a lot of tough decisions to make as a parent, especially when it comes to your child’s education. If you’re considering enrolling your child in music lessons, here are some of the benefits you should know about.

Improved Concentration

Many students have trouble focusing on school and other tedious tasks, but music lessons can help students improve their concentration. Learning to play an instrument takes a lot of concentration, and the skills students learn from learning to play an instrument carry over into other areas. For students who have trouble concentrating, extracurricular activities can be just the ticket.

Memorization

Learning an instrument also requires a lot of memorization, so music classes can help students improve their memory skills. Having a strong memory is a valuable skill in so many areas of life, and music classes are a great way to build strong memorization skills from an early age.

Following Directions

Students who have trouble following directions in normal classes may be able to learn a thing or two from music lessons. Learning an instrument isn’t something you can really do on your own; most students need a lot of help and instruction to learn to play an instrument. As your student progresses through their music lessons, they’ll also get better at following directions.

Improvements in Math and Science

The parts of the brain that are strengthened by learning an instrument are related to science and math. Students aren’t going to suddenly become math geniuses because they learned to play an instrument, but learning an instrument can build foundational skills at a young age.

More Interest in School

Some students have difficulty focusing on school because they’re simply not interested. According to DoSomething, schools with music programs have a 90.2% graduation rate and 93.9% attendance rate, while schools without music programs sit at 72.9% and 84.9%, respectively. If your child isn’t engaged, learning an instrument at school can help them get more excited about school.

Parents have a lot of difficult decisions to make when it comes to the education of their children. The good news is that music lessons can benefit your child in several ways, from getting them more interested in school to building foundational skills. If you want to enroll your child in a school that offers music programs, contact Lane Music to learn more.

Explore Our ‘Top Floor’ at The Nashville Location

At Lane Music, we believe music stores are vital to an individual’s overall quality of life. According to PubMed, six weeks of music intervention helped to improve memory recall on the digit span test in children. Lane Music is a Music Store that is a space designed by musicians for musicians. We have three locations. Our Nashville location has an upper level called the “Top Floor.”

About the Top Floor

The Top Floor is a unique space above Lane Music Store in Nashville that offers a way to engage with music. We offer lessons on the first floor to help you get familiar with various instruments. While your child, friend, or loved one is learning, you can experience the comfortable and relaxing atmosphere of the Top Floor and try out our collection of guitars and basses. You can check out the Top Floor by visiting the location in Nashville or call to talk to one of our professionals to ask questions about what kind of lessons might suit you best.

The Origin of the Top Floor

Music stores offer you instruments to connect with, but not all offer lessons to help you get familiar with those instruments. Scott Lane, the owner of Lane Music wanted our Nashville location to be touched by musicians. He wanted to offer musicians the space they needed to thrive. The Top Floor offers space for our customers to try out all sorts of guitars and basses ranging from $199 to $15,000. It even has a pool table equipped with pool balls and cues if you are not interested in our instruments.

About the Creator

Todd “Toddzilla” Austin spent 25 years as a guitar specialist for a well-known music store in Nashville near music row. He has the experience needed to provide you with the best experience possible at his music store. He can build rapport with his customers in a way that helps build connections to last a lifetime.

Who May Benefit from the Top Floor

Anyone wishing to better themselves through a connection to music could benefit from the Top Floor. You should visit the Top Floor if you have been looking for a reason to pick up and try out your potential new musical instrument. Whether you are new to music lessons or you are already an experienced professional, there is sure to be something to benefit you at Lane Music.

More About Lane Music

Music stores are generally the best place to look for new instruments. However, Lane Music offers so much more. Get a unique experience if you stop by Lane Music and see what the Top Floor offers. You won’t regret making music a bigger part of your life.

3 Reasons Why You Should Invest in Professional Instrument Tuning

Instrument tuning is necessary to ensure that your instrument performs exactly as it is designed. Instrument tuning is important for any stringed instrument. Professional tuning is an option you should consider. There are three reasons why professional tuning is the right choice.

Why Is Tuning Necessary?

Professional instrument tuning is necessary to ensure continued playability. This practice is important whether you are a professional musician or still in the learning stages. During the tune-up process, oil build-up and debris are cleared, which can impact the sound of your instrument.

Instruments are designed to project sound. Tuning the instrument ensures that the sound is not obstructed and the acoustics remain crystal clear. If your instrument is not performing as it should, it is time for professional tuning.

1. Protect Your Instrument

One of the most important reasons you should have your instruments tuned professionally is to protect your instrument from damage. According to Hello Music Theory, on average, a piano has 220-230 strings made of steel. Each string has 168 tons of tension. A lot can go wrong when tuning this instrument, but pianos are not the only instrument at risk of damage. All string instruments can benefit from professional attention.

Professional tuning ensures that your instrument is not damaged during the tuning process. Of course, a professional tuner has the skill set to ensure your instrument sounds better than ever.

2. Detecting Issues

Another key benefit of having your instruments professionally tuned is that the professional tuner can recognize potential problems with your instrument that you may not notice until it breaks. A professional tuner can recognize when minor repairs need to be made, saving you money.

Most professional tuners offer string replacement services and other necessary repairs. Early detection of issues can mean early interventions for cost savings.

3. Protect Your Investment

Professional instrument tuning can help preserve your instrument’s value and protect your investment. A professionally maintained instrument will hold value better than an instrument that is not professionally maintained.

Professional instrument tuning is an option every instrument owner should take advantage of. There are a lot of benefits you could miss out on if you don’t. Call today to schedule a professional to tune your instrument.

How to Get Started With Learning the Piano

Learning the piano doesn’t have to be intimidating. Even if you’ve never touched a keyboard before, it’s possible to become a skilled pianist with the right guidance and dedication. Here are some tips to get you started on your journey toward becoming a piano master.

Use Beginner Books

When learning an instrument, it’s important to use resources tailored for beginners. Search for books and online tutorials specifically designed for those starting out with the piano. These resources will have simple explanations and exercises to help you understand the basics of playing. They can also give you a framework for developing your skills.

Learn the Basics of the Piano

According to Hello Music Theory, a piano contains between 220 and 230 steel strings, and each of these strings holds around 168 tons of tension. Whether you look for piano rentals to practice or own a piano, understanding the basics of the instrument is essential. Get to know all its parts and how they work together. This will help you understand what you’re playing and the sounds you’ll be creating.

Find a Great Teacher

Finding a piano teacher can be a great way to kick-start your learning. Teachers can offer personalized advice, provide tips for practice, and explain concepts in more detail. Many teachers will have special techniques and advice to help you learn faster. Group lessons are a great option, too! This can be a fun way to socialize and make learning the piano more enjoyable.

Practice, Practice, Practice

It’s always a great idea to look for piano rentals or buy your own keyboard to practice on. Set aside time every day to practice, and make sure that you focus on the basics first. You should start with basic scales and chords and gradually move on to more complex pieces as you improve. It’s important to be patient and consistent in your practice; don’t expect overnight results.

Record Yourself and Listen Back

While playing music, it can be difficult to hear all the mistakes. Recording yourself and then listening back can help you identify any issues in your playing. That way, you can work on specific areas and make sure that you’re improving with each practice session.

From seeking piano rentals to finding a teacher, there are plenty of ways to get started with learning the piano. With these tips, you can make sure that your journey toward becoming a piano master is off to a great start! If you are looking for high-quality pianos, call us today!

What Are the Different Kinds of Pianos You Can Rent?

The piano is a timeless instrument that remains a staple at many events. According to Statista, there were 29,326 pianos sold in 2021, with around 21 thousand acoustic pianos sold in the United States in 2020.

Grands and Baby Grands

Grand and baby grand pianos are popular rental options because these are typically some of the more expensive pianos. When somebody wants a piano that’s both functional and stylish, a grand piano makes a great addition to a stage or formal event. Grand pianos are also known for providing some of the best sounds you can get from a piano, which also makes them a popular choice for high-end and formal events.

Upright Pianos

If you’re looking for a piano for a concert or event that’s not a little more affordable than a grand piano, upright pianos are a good option. An upright piano is basically a less decorative version of a grand piano, which also makes them a good option if you’re having a pianist play outside. Upright pianos may not look as fancy as expensive grand pianos, but they’re a great option in many cases.

Digital Pianos

Digital pianos are the most modern piano rental option. The biggest downside to digital pianos is that they don’t have the classic look that grand and upright pianos have, which may make them a less popular option for formal events like weddings. However, digital pianos sound great and are reliable, plus you can connect them to modern audio equipment.

Concert Pianos

Concert pianos are basically the largest size of a grand piano, designed to provide powerful sound that can fill an entire room. These pianos are a popular choice for live performances, but they might not be the best fit if you’re tight on space. A concert piano offers all the benefits of a grand piano rental, only it’s designed to provide a fuller sound that really resonates.

Whether you’re putting together a wedding or renting a piano for a recital or concert event, choosing the right type of piano is important. There are several types of piano rentals that fit varying needs. If you’re looking to rent a piano for an upcoming concert or event, call Lane Music to learn more about our options.

5 Perks of Starting Music Lessons Early in Life

Starting music lessons early in life has many perks parents can take advantage of. Studies have shown that introducing children to musical instruction at a young age can help them develop and grow emotionally, mentally, and socially. For example, according to PubMed, six weeks of music intervention helped improve memory recall on the digit span test in children. Read further to see how music can help your child early in life.

1. Increase Creativity

Playing a musical instrument allows children to express their creativity and explore different ideas. The child has new ways of expressing themselves and exploring new ways of thinking. As they reach higher levels of proficiency, young people can create unique and innovative pieces of music.

2. Enhance Cognitive Skills

Musical lessons involve memorization, coordination, and discipline to master the notes. According to a study published by the American Psychological Association, children who took music lessons showed improved verbal memory and spatial reasoning. As they practice musical instruments, their brains are engaged in problem-solving tasks such as memorizing notes and understanding rhythms.

3. Improve Social Skills

Learning a musical instrument can help children improve their social skills. Learning music often involves teamwork that shows children how to work with others towards a common goal. Young people may learn to cooperate and listen to each other while playing in an ensemble or band. Furthermore, playing in front of an audience can help children develop confidence and poise.

4. Boost Self-Esteem

Playing a musical instrument can also help young people boost their self-esteem. As they practice and improve their skills, children gain a sense of accomplishment and achievement which helps them feel more confident in their abilities. This newfound confidence can help kids be more independent, allowing them to take on new challenges and reach greater heights.

5. Enhance Language Skills

Music can help children learn how to structure language, as well as acquire a better understanding of grammar and pronunciation. Additionally, playing music may also help improve their reading skills since they must quickly read the notes on the score. As their vocabulary expands, so does their ability to express themselves both verbally and through music.

Music isn’t just for entertainment, but it also helps the early cognitive and social development of young children. By starting music lessons early in life, parents can give their kids a head start. Contact Lane Music about music instruction today.

Why Are More People Turning to Band Instrument Rental Services?

Learning music is one of the best investments a parent can make into their child’s lifelong personality. Music combines poetry, mathematics, and science into one activity, and makes all these fields fun and rewarding. Additionally, from a child’s point of view, making noise and feeling proud of what you created fosters confidence.

Why You Should Rent an Instrument

Compared to owning, band instrument rental is an inexpensive alternative. It can take more than five years for the cost of piano rental to add up to the cost of a new piano, making it a pocket-friendly option for families introducing their kids to music. Renting also protects you from being stuck if your child tries their hand at this new instrument and ultimately decides they want to attempt something different.

How to Choose the First Instrument for Your Child

According to Statista, the consumption of the audio medium has steadily increased since 2014, and children play a big part in that growth. The music they like to listen to is the music they’re going to want to play. The first step to playing their favorite music is to get them the right band instrument rental to do it with. There is one sure way to get your kids hooked on the lifetime of music offered by a well-chosen instrument; allow them to have a say in what they want to try. Let your child advocate their own wants, and work with them to figure out what path works best.

Why Playing an Instrument is Important to Your Overall Health

It almost seems too obvious to say, but music makes people happy. Recent research shows that playing music impacts every part of your brain. Exercising your brain and coordination gives you the benefits of serotonin, one of two primary mood-boosting neurotransmitters. Giving a child an instrument is equivalent to providing them with healthy emotional outlets

What Not to do With Your Instruments

When you have an instrument, it can feel like the sky is the proverbial limit. There are some things you do not want to do with a musical instrument. If you have a piano, a guitar, or another instrument made of wood, humidity can cause damage. So make sure to put your expensive musical instrument in a dry, clean environment. If you haven’t played in a while, it’s never a bad idea to get your instrument checked out before you put your fingers to the keys or lips to the mouthpiece.

Modern band instrument rental provides upcoming music enthusiasts with lasting personal growth opportunities. Piano makers like Paul A. Schmitt, horn builders like Yamaha and Conn-Selmer, and drum makers like Zildjian all have instruments to offer. Investing in your kids has never been easier, so give us a call today to see what we have to offer!

5 Qualities to Look for in a Piano Rental Business

A piano rental is a great option for homes and organizations. Choosing the right piano rental company is essential to ensure you get the best value. Here are five qualities you should look for in a piano rental company to indicate that you should do business with them.

1. A Wide Selection of Inventory

The right provider will offer a range of inventory. It would be best if you dealt with a vendor that offers a full suite of options. The more options that are available, the better it is for you. A vendor that can only offer a single option limits the possibility of finding exactly the type of piano you are hoping to find.

2. Fair Pricing

Many people and organizations choose a rental option to meet their needs because it is less expensive than buying a piano outright. The ideal vendor will have flexible payment options and offer a fair price point. The right piano rental plan will fit comfortably into your budget.

3. Added Value Services

Added value services can be the best way to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. For example, will the company replace the piano at no expense to you if the piano breaks down? Does the company take responsibility for tuning the piano or maintaining it for long-term rentals? You must choose a company that offers added-value services to ensure you get the best value for your rental costs.

4. Flexible Terms

Choose a company that offers flexible terms. For example, do you plan on renting the piano for a special event and need a short-term rental, or do you need a longer agreement? The right company will be able to provide you with the terms you need.

5. A Commitment To Customer Care

It’s best if you choose a piano rental company with a reputation for satisfaction. Customer service is a critical part of your experience. A commitment to customer service is a must.

According to Statista, about 29,232 pianos were sold in 2021, and in 2020, 21,000 pianos were sold. However, many organizations and individuals choose to rent a piano. If you are in the latter group, choose a company like Lane Music that can provide you with the right support. Learn more about our piano rental today.

3 Reasons Why the Piano is Such a Popular Instrument

There may be no comparison when it comes to the popularity of the piano. The piano is by far one of the, if not most, recognizable instruments out there. There have been dozens of classical pieces of music have been created using the piano. One of the greatest composers to have ever lived, Beethoven, used the piano to create the incredible piece Ode to Joy. We have to consider for a second, why is the piano so popular all these years? Let’s take a closer look at this incredible instrument and why people continue to enjoy listening to and playing it even to this day.

1. It’s Recognizable

As mentioned before, the piano is incredibly recognizable. We can all recognize the shape and sound of a piano. According to Hello Music Theory, the hulking piano contains up to 220 and 230 steel strings with each one holding around 168 tons of tension. We can all imagine the piano strings in our minds, the shapes of the keys, and the outline of the piano. We’ve sent in so many pieces of media over the past century. From movies to television, there has been a piano in tons of scenes and it’s easily recognizable. We could easily mistake a trumpet or a trombone depending on the note being played, but the sound a piano makes is easily recognizable.

2. It’s Easily Accessible

More often than not, you will find beginner piano players compared to those of a violin or a trombone. It can take a very long time for a beginner musician to be able to create something that sounds tangible on a violin. Learning the piano at the most fundamental level can be incredibly easy for a newcomer and they can find satisfaction in this. This is why piano rental services are more popular than others, due to the fact that beginners are more likely to seek out a piano rental for their own events than other instruments.

3. The Harmony

The piano has an advantage over other instruments in that it can play complete chords compared to that of other instruments. This gives the piano instantaneous appeal compared to that of a more complicated instrument. Creating harmony on a piano is something that the piano can do compared to that a tuba, which can only play one line of music at a time. The piano’s versatility and its ability to shape and compose what the user wants are unrivaled when it comes to raw musical creativity.

Are you looking for a piano rental service for your next big event? The piano is always a sought-after musical option whenever it comes to parties, weddings, and ceremonies. Let us help you with your piano rental needs today. Contact us to inquire more about our piano rental services.