Drum Lessons in Canton MI The Benefits of Learning to Play Drums Drums are one of the most popular instruments around, and for good reason. They are incredibly versatile and can be found in nearly every genre of music. Canton Music Academy offers drum lessons in 30 minute, 45 minute, and 60 minute weekly sessions, […]
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Guitar Lessons in Canton MI Andrew D
Learn Guitar at Canton Music AcademyFormerly taught by Andrew D. At Canton Music Academy, guitar lessons are about more than just learning chords—they’re about discovering your voice through music, building confidence, and having fun along the way. Whether you’re into classic rock, blues, metal, or acoustic fingerstyle, guitar lessons can be tailored to your interests […]
How to choose the right guitar for beginners
10 Things to Know Before Buying Your First GuitarBy Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director Buying your first guitar is a pivotal moment—whether it’s for you or someone you care about. It’s not just a purchase; it’s the beginning of a rewarding musical journey. With so many options and opinions out there, […]
Who says cello players don’t rock?
Cello in Rock and Pop Music At Grosse Pointe Music Academy, we love seeing classical instruments take center stage in modern music genres—and the cello is no exception. Known for its rich, warm tone, the cello has found a home far beyond symphonies and concert halls. It’s not uncommon to hear cellos featured in rock, […]
Thelonious Monk, A musical genius
Creative Advice for Musicians – Inspired by Thelonious MonkBy Henry Bahrou Jazz legend Thelonious Monk was known not just for his playing, but for his unconventional wisdom. In the 1960s, saxophonist Steve Lacy captured a collection of insights Monk shared with bandmates—guidance that has continued to resonate with musicians of all kinds. While the original […]
February 20th – On this Day in Music History
Is February 20th special? What Happened on February 20th? February 20th might just be one of the most musically active dates in history. Over the years, this day has seen the birth of influential composers, iconic recordings, and major cultural events in music and entertainment. 🎼 Notable composer birthdays on this day include: 🎶 Memorable […]
Is music a higher revelation for you?
Is Music a Higher Revelation?By Henry Bahrou, Grosse Pointe Music Academy Staff There’s a well-known quote often attributed to Beethoven that suggests music is a “higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.” Whether or not he meant this literally, the idea sparks a valuable question: Can music reveal something deeper than what we gain through […]
Vibration Creates Matter
The Power of Sound: Exploring Music, Vibration, and Our Connection to the WorldBy Grosse Pointe Music Academy Staff While it’s not our goal here to dive into philosophical or religious debates, there’s a fascinating area of thought that connects sound, music, and the natural world—and it’s worth reflecting on. Some scientists and researchers have proposed […]
So You want to be President?
Music and Leadership: U.S. Presidents and Their Musical BackgroundsBy Grosse Pointe Music Academy Staff Throughout American history, many of the nation’s leaders have had a strong connection to music. From early presidents to more recent public figures, music has played a formative role in the lives of several prominent individuals. President Harry S. Truman, known […]
Foreground and Background: Creating a Balanced Sound at the Piano
One of the most important elements of creating a beautiful sound at the piano is learning how to balance the melody and the accompaniment. Rather than playing all notes with the same weight, effective pianists know how to prioritize different voices within the music — bringing the melody forward while keeping the accompaniment supportive and […]
Can Playing Guitar Help You Keep Your Hair?
Can Playing Guitar Help You Keep Your Hair? According to an article from the Times of India, pop icon Prince once claimed that a lifetime of playing electric guitar helped him avoid going bald. Prince, who was known for his musical genius across 27 different instruments, believed that the constant flow of electricity through his […]
A Common Mistake That’ll Grow Hair on Any Guitarist’s Palms
Why Sticking to Your Comfort Zone on Guitar Holds You Back At Grosse Pointe Music Academy, we often remind students that real growth on an instrument doesn’t come from playing what you already know — it comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. We recently came across a great article by Nicholas Tozier at […]
Imagination In Instrument Design
Music is an art form that has been experimented with by humans since, quite possibly, before we had even developed the ability to verbally communicate with one another. As music has advanced, changed, and evolved, so have both humans, and the instruments that we have used to create these sounds. First, we banged sticks, and […]
If birds can learn to sing, you can too!
The Joy of Singing and the Value of Voice LessonsI’ve always found it fascinating to watch birds imitate the sounds and songs of other animals—especially human voices. Anyone who has spent time around birds can see that they are deeply interested in sound and music. While many animals have sharper hearing than humans, birds seem […]
Why Do We Remember Old Pop Songs But Forget Where Our Keys Are?
Music and the Brain: A Reflection on Memory and MelodyBy Grosse Pointe Music Academy Staff Music has long fascinated scientists and educators for its unique impact on the human brain. One of the most compelling findings in recent years is how music can awaken memory in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Even when names and faces […]
This is Your Brain on Music
Music and the Brain: A Look into Neuromusic with Daniel LevitinDaniel Levitin, a prominent researcher and author in the fields of psychology and neuroscience, has made major contributions to our understanding of how the brain processes music. As a professor at McGill University, his research has explored topics such as perfect pitch, musical memory, and […]
That’s what she said: Quotes from Famous Female Songwriters
Inspiration from Great Female Songwriters and Performers Collected by Henry Bahrou, Grosse Pointe Music Academy Staff Throughout history, female artists have shaped the world of music with bold creativity and honest expression. Their words not only reflect their craft but serve as a source of motivation and wisdom for anyone on a musical path. Here’s […]
Music makes things worthwhile
The Value of Music and Art EducationBy Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director A little over a week ago, I wrote about how music and art programs are often the first to be cut when public schools face financial challenges. On days like Super Bowl Sunday, I can’t help but think about […]
Songwriting classes at GPMA
Introduction to SongwritingBy Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director Songwriting is an activity that musicians of all ages and skill levels can explore. While it certainly helps to have experience and practice on your instrument, learning the art of songwriting can begin at any time — even with just a basic understanding […]
What makes instruments sound different from one another?
Why Instruments Sound Different: A Look at HarmonicsBy Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director When you listen to a song, it’s common to hear multiple instruments playing together, either during certain sections or throughout the entire piece. Sometimes, two different instruments — like a piano and a guitar — might even play […]