I had the once-in-a-lifetime golden opportunity to get to interview with Paul Gilbert back in 2019! The experience changed my guitar lessons forever as the interview turned out to be more of a guitar teaching masterclass. In the video, Paul Gilbert shares valuable insights on what defines an effective guitar teacher and what a good music school in Singapore should be like. Here are the key takeaways:
1. Rhythm is Everything
A strong sense of time isn’t just for drummers and their drum lessons — it’s crucial for every musician.
Guitar students should practice rhythm early through stomping, clapping, and playing with or against the beat.
2. Teaching with Style
The evolution of the guitar has shifted from 70s blues-rock to highly technical playing.
Still, having a distinct guitar style (like bluesy metal) gives students identity and direction.
3. Mastering Technique
Good guitarists combine feel with technical skill.
Examples include using the thumb to play major chords — a move that requires strength and finesse.
4. Melody Matters
Learning scales without melodies leads to robotic playing.
Focus on horizontal playing (melodic expression across strings), not just vertical (up and down scales).
Of course, I had to get his lesson book from 1993 and my Ibanez Fireman autographed!
5. Real-World Playing Challenges
Developing your sound means exploring different techniques like sliding, muting, and expressive phrasing.
Guitarists should also be honest about their playing — sounding good attracts listeners and helps boost the music scene.
6. The Struggles of Band Life
Finding committed members, rehearsal spaces, and time was a major hurdle in the past, and still is today.
7. Recommended Songs for Students
These tracks are packed with learning opportunities:
“Green 1060s Mine”: A lesser-known gem featuring the rare and expressive A#m7♭5 chord (F#7 substitute)
8. Final Thought: Start with the Beat
Before you even touch the guitar, feel the rhythm. The speaker recommends having students stomp the beat to build a solid musical foundation.
Conclusion
If you want to learn how to keep time with your foot or play those tasty chords, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
We recently asked students from our music lessons in Singapore to contribute their favourite jokes and riddles. They delivered! These jokes are great for ice-breaking and small talk. You don’t even need to know how to play an instrument to understand them.
Students of our music school wrote these top 10 music jokes and riddles!
These Top 10 music jokes and riddles are not ranked and don’t have to be! We laughed at every single one of them anyway.
What do you get when you drop a piano on an army camp? A-flat major!
What musical keys do cows sing in? Beef-flat…
Why did the fish make such a good musician? He knew his scales!
What types of songs do planets sing? Nep-tunes
What type of drum cannot be played? Eardrums
Why was music coming out of the printer? The printer was JAMMING!
What kind of music are balloons afraid of? Pop music!
Why did the singer climb higher? To reach the high notes!
Wanna hear a joke about staccato?
Never mind—it’s too short.
Why did the drummer complain about his salad?
It didn’t have any beats.
Why are students of our music school having so much fun?
It’s no coincidence that students at our music school genuinely enjoy their music lessons. We take pride in delivering high-quality lessons that go beyond just achieving results. In fact, several of our students who previously attended other music schools in Singapore have shared how much more they’re enjoying their lessons with us now.
Get set for endless fun and laughter when you take music lessons with us! Consider signing up for trial lessons!. We might be able to provide the missing link for your child.
Why should you buy concert tickets to Tommy Emmanuel in Singapore
Although acoustic fingerstyle guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel has performed numerous times in Singapore over the span of his career. It is just not enough to satisfy the folks passionate about the acoustic guitar. Those taking up fingerstyle guitar lessons in Singapore lack sufficient exposure to professional performances like this, too. If you are unaware, the last gig Tommy did in Singapore was back in 2017! That is 8 years ago! Many of our acoustic guitar students were just little kids and are now working adults!
A tall order (not Tall Fiddler)!
If anyone is able to connect me, I’d be thrilled to interview Tommy during his time in Singapore. I’ve previously had the pleasure of interviewing Paul Gilbert and Jack Thammarat, and I’m always eager for the opportunity to speak with influential guitarists. Feel free to reach out to me at Vinnie@VinnieClassroom.com. Thank you!
Tommy Emmanuel is becoming inconsistent with his visit to Singapore
Perhaps we can blame it on COVID-19, or we can blame just how small our acoustic fingerstyle guitar community is in Singapore. Tommy doesn’t make frequent visits to Singapore, even though we are a perfect layover before he heads back home to Australia. This inconsistency makes every one of his gigs here in Singapore so endearing and in demand.
I thought it would be easy to find all the past gigs Tommy Emmanuel had performed in Singapore on the internet. But the internet, probably due to maintenance costs, is quite a forgetful place! Plenty of past information became blurry or completely erased from the records. Hence, this is my best effort at compiling his past performances in Singapore.
Tommy Emmanuel’s Past Tour Dates in Singapore
23 Oct 2006 Victoria Theater – I remember attending the masterclass and his concert later that evening. It was my first experience with watching Tommy Emmanuel up close!
29 Oct 2008 DBS Auditorium – Oh I remember this one. To me, the downgrade of venue was noticeable. Though the smaller hall made the experience more intimate.
29 Oct 2009 DBS Auditorium – I found a cool interview by a soft member who had the rare opportunity! I got my guitar
24 Oct 2010 Esplanade Concert Hall – For some reason, I have no memory of this concert. Though I remember that it was the era of iRig and iPhone 4!
26 Oct 2013 Esplanade Concert Hall – Perhaps the only concert that he brought a guest, Martin Taylor! Who plays neither the Martin nor the Taylor guitar.
Tommy Emmanuel has a huge influence on Vinnie Classroom
There aren’t many music schools in Singapore that will offer guitar lessons specifically for fingerstyle guitar. The vast majority prefers strum and sing when it comes to the acoustic guitar. Understandably so because fingerstyle guitar has a niche market, and most students in Singapore have too much school work anyway! Still, there are some of our students who were able to devote part of their busy schedule to learning beautiful tunes from Tommy Emmanuel. As a guitar teacher, it is always a joy to see our guitar students mastering such complicated pieces and the look on their satisfied faces.
Sign up for guitar lessons and learn some Tommy Emmanuel’s songs before the show!
While many are able to learn the guitar by themselves, attending guitar lessons can help you achieve that goal quicker!
We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Conclusion
Tommy Emmanuel’s concert in Singapore is for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned guitar player, a beginner, or someone who doesn’t know anything! If you love music, good music, you should not miss this show. While I have no clue if Tommy will be resuming his annual shows in Singapore, I am not risking it by skipping this year’s.
If you are keen to learn more about guitar tuning through proper guitar lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
A quick scroll through YouTube shows many guitarists using gaming chairs. But are they really the best option? In this article, we’ll explore what makes a good chair for guitarists—and how the wrong one can hurt your playing. If you are in the market for a chair, this article might just be able to help you!
My Gaming Chair Experience
I used a gaming chair for years and suffered serious back pain. What seemed like a dream chair turned out to be an expensive regret. Gaming chairs, especially branded ones, cost a lot. They’re comfy, yes—but not built with musicians in mind. If you’re taking guitar lessons seriously, a gaming chair might not be your best choice.
Take a closer look at my sitting posture!
Common Design Flaws
Armrest is obstructing the guitar
sitting sideways on the gaming chair causes weird leg posture
sitting sideways on gaming chair also causes the chair to spoil quicker
The biggest issue with a gaming chair for guitarists? The armrests. They block proper guitar placement. Removing them helps, but then you face the “bucket seat” design. That shape forces your guitar into awkward angles. Many end up sitting sideways, which wears out the chair fast. Others try using a footstool to fix posture.
The Problem with Footstools
Footstools change your pelvic tilt and spine alignment. Over time, this causes pain and muscle strain. Classical players used them for decades, and so did some metal guitarists. But things are changing. Many are switching from footstools to lap stools. My friend Funtwo, for example, made the switch—and never looked back.
Surprisingly Good Options
The best chair for guitarists might be the humble plastic ones seen at events. Those red or white chairs offer great posture support. They’re flat, firm, and have no arms to block your guitar. The downside? They’re not ideal for long hours. I teach for seven hours a day, so I needed more comfort.
Finding a Better Fit
Next, I considered banquet chairs—the padded ones you see at weddings. They offer wide, flat seats and support your posture. But they don’t move. No wheels, no swivel. Then I found a rotating chair at Nitori. It doesn’t roll, but it spins. That changed everything. I finally found a chair that works for me.
What to Look for in a Guitar Chair
So, what makes a chair great for guitarists? Follow the 90-90-90 rule—knees, hips, and ankles all at right angles. Check out my photo! Make sure the seat is flat with no tilt or curve. Adjustable height is a plus, especially if you’re taller or shorter than average. Comfort plus posture is the winning combo.
Conclusion
Having the right chair boosts practice motivation and helps you play longer. It also makes switching to a standing position smoother. Before buying your next seat, ask yourself: gaming chair for guitarists?Maybe not. But with the right pick, your body—and your music—will thank you.
So you found your chair, maybe you should consider signing up for a trial lesson with us to bring your guitar playing to the next level!
The Conclave and Music: A Look at Popes Who Loved the Arts
With the ongoing conclave, we at our music school in Singapore wondered if any past popes have been musicians. As it turns out, quite a few have had meaningful connections to music! Music is often described as a universal language! We believe it’s a powerful way for leaders, religious or otherwise, to connect with people from all walks of life. Just as our music school motto, “Empowering the next generation through music”. Our music lessons aim at helping our students to achieve greater things in life through music education.
We are a music school that offers happy music lessons in Singapore 😀
Past Conclaves and Popes have shown how music can be an important element. We felt the urge to share how our music school offers this important element in life. Our motto, as mentioned in the first paragraph, “Empowering the next generation through music,” reflects our commitment to creating a positive learning experience. Harsh discipline, including the use of strong words, physical punishment, or psychological pressure, only discourages students rather than uplifting them. These outdated teaching methods are the opposite of what we strive for. With us, you can be confident that your child will not only learn music but also enjoy every lesson and look forward to the next one!
We are a music school offering piano lessons, guitar lessons, and drum lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for music lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Before this conclave, there were 5 Popes who enjoys music!
1. Pope Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger)
Musical Involvement: An accomplished pianist, Benedict XVI had a profound love for classical music, particularly the works of Mozart and Bach. He often played piano privately, favoring his old, brandless instrument over more luxurious options.
Notable Contributions: He recorded an album featuring contemporary classical music, where he sang and recited prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Philosophy on Music: Benedict viewed music as a pathway to the divine, stating that pieces like Mozart’s “Coronation Mass” brought him a profound sense of God’s presence.MissioDei
2. Pope Pius X (Giuseppe Sarto)
Musical Involvement: Before his papacy, Pius X was deeply involved in church music, composing chants like “Gloria Laus” for Palm Sunday and “O Redemptor” for the Holy Oils function.
Reforms: He issued the motu proprio Tra le sollecitudini, advocating for the restoration of Gregorian chant and sacred polyphony in liturgical music.OnePeterFive
3. Pope Leo X (Giovanni di Lorenzo de’ Medici)
Musical Involvement: A passionate patron of the arts, Leo X had a melodious voice and a deep love for music. He employed renowned musicians, including lutenist Francesco Canova da Milano, and invested heavily in musical instruments and compositions.
Legacy: His papacy is noted for elevating the standard of the papal choir and promoting the printing of musical scores, enhancing the role of music in religious services.Wikipedia
4. Pope John XIX
Musical Involvement: In the 11th century, he invited Guido of Arezzo, the inventor of modern musical notation, to Rome. John XIX encouraged Guido to teach his notation system to the Roman clergy, significantly influencing the development of Western music.Wikipedia
5. Pope Francis (Jorge Mario Bergoglio)
Musical Involvement: While not a musician himself, Pope Francis has shown a deep appreciation for music. During his visits, the Pontifical Anthem, composed by Charles Gounod, is often played, reflecting the importance of music in papal ceremonies.Time
Conclusion on The Conclave, Popes and Music.
While we don’t represent or promote any particular religion, we’re always intrigued by how influential figures might shape the future of music and education. Whether it’s a love for sacred music, classical compositions, or modern melodies, their influence can inspire generations. As a music school, we’re committed to nurturing a deep appreciation for music and providing quality education to everyone who walks through our doors, no matter their background or beliefs.
If you wish to learn an instrument so you can jam to those happy songs, consider signing up for a trial lesson with us!
Bill Gates is set to open a new regional office for the Gates Foundation in Singapore. During his recent visit, he met with Prime Minister Mr Lawrence Wong and engaged in what was described as a “wide-ranging” conversation. They touched on topics from clean energy to vaccine development. However, there was no mention of support for the arts or music education. An area we’d love to see get more attention.
We are a music school in Singapore, and we teach the genre Bill Gates enjoys!
Bill Gates has previously shared his interest in music, and the Gates Foundation has supported music lessons and schools, just not in Singapore. Our motto, “Empowering the next generation through music,” is very similar to the vision of the Gates Foundation, which is to help and develop people to their fullest potential. With us, you can be confident that your child will not only learn music but also enjoy every lesson and look forward to the next one!
We are a music school offering music lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! An opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Long before the Gates Foundation, Bill Gates banned himself from music for 5 years!
Interestingly, Gates hasn’t always had time for music. In his 20s, while building Microsoft with Paul Allen after taking a leave of absence from Harvard, he cut out all music and television for five years. He believed such entertainment would distract him from coding and software development. In hindsight, Gates admitted that this was an extreme move—and thankfully, music has always remained close to his heart.
Gates Foundation supports the arts and music!
Through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he has contributed to a wide range of causes. One notable example in the arts is the grant for Youth Advancement Through Music and Art (YATMA). “We want to tap the human spirit, allowing children to open up and feel safe,” said YATMA’s Founder and Director, Rossi. Other music-related initiatives that have benefited from Gates Foundation support include programs like “My School ROCKS” and “Maple Street School.”
Bill Gates’ Desert Island Songlist
Gates has also publicly shared a list of songs he can’t live without. His top picks include:
David Bowie & Queen – Under Pressure: “In my 20s and 30s, I worked a lot,” Gates recalled. “But on some Fridays and Saturdays, we’d go out and dance. This reminds me of those disco days.”
Willie Nelson – Blue Skies: “Melinda and I love Willie Nelson,” he shared.
Ed Sheeran – Sing: A song that reminds him of his children.
Jimi Hendrix – Are You Experienced: A nod to his rocking youth with Paul Allen.
U2 – One: Themes of unity, perseverance, and optimism.
The Beatles – Two of Us: Reminds him of Steve Jobs, who was “really into music.”
“How Can Love Survive” from The Sound of Music: A hidden gem he discovered with Melinda after hearing Warren Buffett and his wife sing it.
“My Shot” from Hamilton: A favorite because it celebrates bold ambition, something Gates deeply relates to.
The Spotify playlist that will make you as motivated as Bill Gates!
In May 2023, Gates even shared his summer Spotify playlist—a feel-good mix featuring Jimi Hendrix and newer tracks recommended by his kids. We actually listened to it while writing this article, and yes—it helped us finish it.
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Conclusion
While there’s currently no news about the Gates Foundation supporting Singapore’s music education or local arts scene, it’s still exciting to welcome them here. We may not be coding geniuses, but we’re passionate music educators here in Singapore—and we’d love to help you play the feel-good tunes that Bill Gates himself enjoys.
If you wish to learn an instrument so you can jam to those happy songs, consider signing up for a trial lesson with us!
As Singapore gears up for GE2025, voters may be surprised to learn that many of them are musicians too! Behind the scenes, some candidates are not just shaping policies—they’re also shaping melodies. These political hopefuls double as musicians, balancing chords and campaigns with equal flair. It’s a fascinating look into how creativity finds its way into even the most structured roles. As a music school in Singapore, this information makes our hearts warm and fuzzy!
Meet the GE2025 Candidates Who Are Musicians Too!
Below is a list of GE2025 Candidates who are politicians by day and musicians by night. While we might have missed out on some of them, this list is definitely a good start.
Mr Lawrence Wong from the People’s Action Party is known for his leadership, but also for his awesome guitar skills. As of now, we have seen plenty of videos of him performing on the guitar masterfully!
Dr Chee Soon Juan, leading the Singapore Democratic Party, also turns to the guitar for clarity and calm. It’s not unusual to hear him plucking a tune between writing speeches.
Ms Sylvia Lim of the Workers’ Party brings another musical gift—her voice. Known for her singing, she performs regularly at events both formal and casual.
Dr. Tan Cheng Bock from the Progress Singapore Party has a gentler instrument of choice. The ukulele. Its mellow tones match his steady demeanor.
Ms He Ting Ru, also of the Workers’ Party, loves to sing. Her voice has been described as soothing, much like her calm public presence.
Mr Harpreet Singh, another WP candidate, brings jazz into the mix. The saxophone is his chosen instrument, showing his flair for both sound and speech.
Ms Emily Woo from Red Dot United is a piano teacher. She combines political ideas and musical instruction with ease. Her students know her as both a mentor and a musician.
Music as a Brain Booster and Balancer
Learning music has been linked to better cognitive function. It sharpens memory and improves attention. Musicians often show more emotional regulation and problem-solving skills. These qualities are vital for leaders. But it’s not just about brainpower. Music also calms the nerves. After a day in Parliament or on the campaign trail, a short jam session can work wonders. It clears the mind and brings focus back to the task.
It’s similar to how students face the intense pressure of school exams. Learning a musical instrument offers one of the best ways for a child to unwind amidst all the revisions and homework.
Balancing Notes and Nation-Building
Each of these candidates wears multiple hats. Their ability to juggle politics and music speaks volumes about their discipline. Music isn’t just a side hobby—it’s a key to their well-being. They may attend briefings by day and teach or rehearse by night. Their schedules are full, but their passion for music remains strong. It offers them a sense of peace and creativity. Many also use music as a bridge to connect with others. Whether performing at a grassroots event or strumming a tune for friends, they find ways to share their joy.
The self-discipline shown by these prominent figures highlights how learning music can shape a person’s character. Through regular practice and commitment, music training builds strong time management skills. When time is managed effectively, reaching goals becomes more achievable. Music lessons in Singapore go beyond just mastering an instrument—they also nurture personal growth and resilience.
A Light-Hearted Note to Close
As we head into GE2025, we wish all the candidates the best. May your campaigns be strong and your instruments stay in tune.
And to the readers, maybe it’s time to dust off that old keyboard or pick up a guitar. Who knows? Learning an instrument might just be the first step toward your own political journey—stranger things have happened!
Will Trump’s tariff affect guitar lessons in Singapore?
Trump’s tariffs may have unexpected consequences for guitar lessons in Singapore. As tensions between the U.S. and China continue to evolve, tariffs could ripple out far beyond politics. One unexpected area of impact? Music lessons in Singapore. If you are thinking of signing up for guitar lessons, this article might answer some of your questions!
Trump’s tariffs impact many of the consumer goods that guitar lessons in Singapore depend on.
American brands hit by Trump’s tariffs play a major role in Singapore’s music industry, especially in guitar lessons.
Martin and Taylor acoustic guitars are top choices for serious players.
Electric guitar students often dream of owning a Gibson or PRS.
JHS and Electro-Harmonix pedals are popular for their unique tones and solid build.
Pickups and strings define a guitar’s voice and feel.
DiMarzio and Seymour Duncan pickups are industry favorites.
D’Addario and Elixir strings are trusted for tone and durability.
With tariffs driving up costs and potentially limiting supply, music educators and students alike are being forced to explore alternatives.
Alternatives that can help us ride this trade war
Fortunately, not all is doom and gloom. Brands like Yamaha and Voki offer excellent value for acoustic guitars, while Ibanez and non-U.S. Fender models provide accessible and quality options for electric players. Pedal lovers have turned their attention to Chinese-made brands like NUX and Joyo, which have rapidly improved in quality while staying budget-friendly—great news for students looking to build a pedalboard without breaking the bank.
Some brands and products are just irreplaceable, at least for now
However, some components are harder to replace. Pickups and strings—critical for tone and feel—pose the biggest challenge. DiMarzio and Seymour Duncan pickups are meticulously engineered, and there are few, if any, substitutes that offer the same tonal range and consistency. Likewise, D’Addario and Elixir strings are trusted for their durability and sound, especially in Singapore’s humid climate. Losing affordable access to these brands could mean a real drop in the playing experience or added costs that affect music lesson affordability.
The rise of the dragon!
Yet, this shift may also highlight the rise of China as a legitimate force in the guitar world. Once mocked for producing knock-offs and low-quality gear, Chinese manufacturers have evolved into serious players. Students and pros alike now respect brands like NUX, Joyo, and Donner—not just as entry-level gear, but as serious tools. With increasing innovation, competitive pricing, and improving quality control, China has become a powerhouse that guitar educators and students in Singapore can confidently turn to.
Though the full effects of the tariffs are still unfolding, the guitar community here is already adapting and reshaping its gear choices, without losing the joy of playing and learning music.
Nothing is set in stone—Trump has changed his tariffs and policies many times before. Even if the industry feels the impact, it may take time to reach us. This delay gives guitar teachers and students a chance to explore alternative brands and gear. With smart choices, we can adapt without losing momentum in music education.
While we don’t promote panic buying, starting guitar lessons now might be a good idea! Consider signing up for a trial lesson with us!
A Guitarist’s Take on Hari Raya: A Celebration with Dhalif Ali
I sat down with my talented friend and fellow guitarist, Dhalif Ali, who shared his personal experiences of celebrating Hari Raya as a musician. Hari Raya Aidilfitri, or simply Hari Raya, is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness for the Muslim community. As the fasting month of Ramadan comes to an end, families and friends gather to celebrate with feasts, forgiveness, and a renewed spirit of gratitude. While Hari Raya is rich in cultural traditions, music plays an equally important role in setting the festive mood. Dhalif shared some valuable insights about Hari Raya to understand this connection better!
The Soundtrack of Hari Raya, as recommended by Dhalif Ali
“As a guitarist, music has always been a huge part of Hari Raya in my home,” Dhalif Ali tells me with a smile. “From the moment the first guests arrive, there’s a mix of traditional Hari Raya songs and modern renditions playing in the background. It just makes the whole celebration feel even more alive.”
Here are the top 3 songs as recommended by Dhalif!
As a guitarist, Dhalif Ali finds ways to infuse his passion into the celebrations. “The most significant and meaningful tradition that we do during Hari Raya is that the family and extended family will gather at the aunt’s place, and everyone will ask for forgiveness in a line from eldest to youngest from our senior family members. Of course, the guitar will always be something we chat about!”
Dhalif is well known as a guitarist, but he is quite a foodie too!
“My favourite Hari Raya dish is definitely going to be something called Sambal Goreng Pengantin. It is a rich, spicy, and luxurious take on the traditional sambal goreng, often served during special occasions like weddings or Hari Raya, featuring a blend of spices, coconut milk, and ingredients like beef, liver, and lung. I’ve always picked out the liver separately because I don’t like it, but my wife makes them WITHOUT liver, which is perfect lol”
A Note of Harmony
As our conversation wraps up, Dhalif Ali leaves me with a final thought: “Hari Raya is more than just a festival—it’s a feeling. It’s the joy of reunion, the comfort of tradition, and the power of music to bring people together.”
As someone who is not a Muslim but deeply respects and admires the beauty of this festival, I find it inspiring how Hari Raya embodies unity through its traditions, music, and spirit of giving. Whether through the strumming of a guitar, the rhythm of traditional songs, or the laughter shared over a meal, the celebration of Hari Raya is a melody that welcomes everyone to join in.
If you wish to play the guitar as well as Dhalif, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
Avengers: Doomsday (Music Analysis and Predictions)
We did our music analysis and prediction for The Marvel Cinematic Universe Avengers: Doomsday! Though the teaser is only 1 minute and 47 seconds long, the soundtrack is carefully designed to evoke the characters and their iconic themes. In fact, it might even hint at what’s to come in the movie! If you love diving into details like this, let’s break it down together!
Our music analysis of Avengers: Doomsday (and Predictions)
Time: 00:00 / Name on chair: Chris Hemsworth
Music Analysis
The first sounds in the teaser greet us with tubular bells, a concert bass drum, and deep-register instruments like the double bass and tuba. There’s also a distinct metallic strike—possibly an anvil tuned to E. Notably, the name on the chair is Chris Hemsworth, the actor behind the beloved Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. That single metallic E note immediately evokes Thor’s Mjölnir, reinforcing his presence.
Prediction
Our guess? The movie opens with Thor catching his hammer and kicking off the story with a narration—just like he did in Thor: Ragnarok. After all, he does love telling a good story!
Time: 00:07 / Name on chair: Anthony Mackie
Music Analysis
The tubular bell rings again, but this time, the name on the chair is Anthony Mackie—the new Captain America. And what does Cap use? That’s right, the Vibranium Shield—a powerful, energy-absorbing metal found only in Wakanda. Interestingly, the same bell sound introduces Captain America, mirroring the metallic ring of his shield when caught—just like Thor’s hammer.
Prediction
Yes, we skipped over Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm)! We’re still unsure how she’ll be introduced—perhaps through S.H.I.E.L.D. intelligence or something similar. But for now, we believe the next big reveal could be Captain America. Fingers crossed for another epic moment where Thor hammers Cap’s shield, unleashing a massive shockwave!
Time: 00:14 / Name on chair: Letitia Wright
Music Analysis
At this moment, rhythmic drumming kicks in, just as Letitia Wright’s name appears on the chair. And why? WAKANDA FOREVER! The drumbeat instantly recalls the way Wakandans prepare for battle and ritual challenges. This percussive style closely resembles how Djembes are played in Mali and other parts of Africa. In African cultures, percussion holds deep significance, making it a powerful and symbolic choice for Marvel to introduce at this point in the teaser.
Prediction
Yes, we skipped over Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes)—who, let’s not forget, has a prosthetic arm made by Shuri. Our guess? Bucky and Shuri are in Wakanda during this part of the movie, possibly following a separate storyline before eventually linking up. This wouldn’t be the first time an MCU film weaves Wakanda into a larger narrative!
Time: 00:18 / Name on chair: Paul Rudd
Music Analysis
Ant-Man’s iconic theme was played on a soulful trumpet! A key rule in writing a catchy melody is keeping it within five notes or fewer, and Ant-Man’s theme is a perfect example. It consists of just four unique notes in E minor, making it an excellent teaching material for melody composition.
Prediction
Ant-Man has been appearing frequently in recent Marvel films—most notably, his giant corpse being used as Cassandra Nova’s headquarters in the Void. Our guess? Ant-Man will play a major role in this movie. He may be small in size, but he’s big in responsibility and impact!
Time: 00:25 / Name on chair: Tenoch Huerta Mejia
Music Analysis
When Tenoch Huerta Mejía’s name appeared, the music remained subtle, but a faint male vocal could be heard in the background. This vocal line instantly recalls Namor’s attack on Wakanda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The music arranger cleverly used a single voice to subtly remind us of past events.
Prediction
We predict that Namor will stir up trouble again before ultimately making peace and joining the right side. After all, he was defeated in Wakanda Forever—but not entirely out of the game!
Time: 01:00 / Name on chair: Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen
Music Analysis
Two iconic X-Men characters were introduced with the classic X-Men theme, played by powerful trumpets! This melody comes straight from X-Men ’97, a nostalgic favorite for many of us who grew up watching it on TV.
Predictions
This one’s tricky to predict. Professor X has always had clear intentions, but Magneto has walked the line between villain and hero. However, with Doctor Doom likely being the main antagonist, we suspect the mutants may unite against him.
Side note: By this point, we have skipped passed quite a few names!
Time: 01:11 / Name on FINAL chair: Robert Downey Jr.
Music Analysis
Muted trumpets played a three-note motif—root, second, and flattened fifth! This diminished melody creates a dark, ominous theme. While many fan compositions honoring Doctor Doom exist on YouTube, we’ve never heard this in the MCU before. Our best guess? This could be his new official theme!
Predictions
There’s not much to predict—Doctor Doom stole Iron Man’s technology, traveled to the end of time, and hunted Loki to control every timeline. Then again, we could be completely wrong!
Conclusion
As music nerds, we love analyzing, dissecting, and playing music! If you enjoyed this article, you might be just like us. So why not join the fun?
We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for piano lessons, guitar lessons, drum lessons, or even bass lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience! You will be joining a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
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