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Pop Songs for Beginners

Author: allencole
Date: 2022-09-29 20:35

I'm always on the lookout for anything that I can use to help a beginner see themselves in a real-world scenario. Tough with pop music over rhythm issues alone. But recently a parent's request brought me a miraculously perfect tune for her first-year beginner, simply because it's his grandparents' 'song' and their anniversary is coming up. Not exactly Top 40 at 38 years old, but Billy Joel's "The Longest Time" is one of the best things I've ever seen. (even though I never cared much for it myself)

1 - Actually sung melody is mostly half-notes and quarter notes. (Depending on how you set the meter) No syncopation.
2 - Range of exactly an 11th with bottom note being the root. Any kid who can conjure up a low F scale, can work all the way up to 'pinch' B-flat and never have to cross the break.
3 - Only 3 accidentals in the entire 32-bar song form
4 - Didn't know this at the time I wrote it up for him, but a good listen determined that Billy Joel recorded the song in Concert Eb--meaning that the kid can play directly along with the original.
5 - Chords are simple. Super easy for a teacher with minimal piano or guitar skills to accompany. Ditto for iRealPro or Band in a Box.
6 - If it's too much to learn the bridge, just the A section sounds pretty much like a complete song.

Similar characteristics for "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" if played in written F. (except for the simple chords)

POINT BEING - This song has been under my nose since it was actually on the charts, but never registered as something super easy for a new clarinetist. Great to read, or learn by ear. Who else has found some pop tunes with similar advantages?

Allen Cole

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