Piano Guidance
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What wood is softer than basswood?

If you're new to working with wood, try Basswood or Balsa. Basswood is technically considered a hardwood, but it's softer than most, and so it's easier to work with. In fact, Basswood is also a solid choice for advanced projects, because it has such a broad range of uses. But even softer than Basswood, is Balsa.

Does Synthesia cost money?
Does Synthesia cost money?

Synthesia is NOT a subscription. All future updates are included with your one-time purchase at no additional charge.

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Should piano keys be covered when not in use?
Should piano keys be covered when not in use?

So, should piano keys be covered? Yes, they certainly should be! Choose to look after it carefully, protecting it and covering it without taking...

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What is it about wood? The creamy color. The rustic smell. The silky texture. The curly (or not-so-curly) grain. It doesn’t take long to find that not all wood is created the same. If you’ve ever used a figured grain, you know that each wood type has a personality of its own. At Keim, we know that picking the perfect wood type key to your project’s success. That’s why we created a quick guide to help you do that, no matter what your skill level is. Beginner. If you’re new to working with wood, try Basswood or Balsa. Basswood is technically considered a hardwood, but it’s softer than most, and so it’s easier to work with. In fact, Basswood is also a solid choice for advanced projects, because it has such a broad range of uses. But even softer than Basswood, is Balsa. This is so soft it doesn’t always hold detail well. But it’s great to use to build model buildings, airplanes etc., because it’s strong and light weight. Intermediate. So you know a thing or two about woodworking. Keim can help take your skills the next level. (Take a look at our events page for demonstrations in our store in Charm, Ohio.) In the meantime, try your hand at Butternut wood. It’s in the Walnut family and is perfect for 3-D carving. It’s harder than Basswood, so you can get precise details. Though in a pinch, when Butternut isn’t available, Basswood is still a good staple. Advanced. You’ve got years of experience. Likely, you’ve also got your favorite type of wood to use. So why not stretch yourself a bit and try something new? Tupelo is a great choice, especially if you like to carve birds or duck decoys. Carving fine details (without “fuzzing up”) is easy with Tupelo. It also holds paint well. At Keim, we carry more than 125 species of wood from around the world. Whether online or in our store, in Charm, Ohio, you can hand-pick the perfect piece that’s right for you. And when you’ve finished your project, post a picture and tag us on Facebook or Instagram! We love seeing the results of your hard work!

How do you figure out what a chord is?
How do you figure out what a chord is?

For every note in the scale, there is a chord that starts on that note. The way to figure out what chords are in a key is to look at each note in...

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How do you say hello in pirate?
How do you say hello in pirate?

Ahoy – A pirate greeting or a way to get someone's attention, similar to “Hello” or “hey!”. Arrr, Arrgh, Yarr, Gar – Pirates slang used to...

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What is the softest note in music?

The typical range proceeds as follows, from softest to loudest: pianissimo (pp), piano (p), mezzo-piano (mp), mezzo-forte (mf), forte (f), fortissimo (ff).

Dynamics refers to the relative loudness or softness of a note in a musical context. Musicians usually distinguish dynamics from volume; the former term depends upon the relative range of loudness and softness in a particular musical piece or performance setting, whereas the latter term is a more objective acoustical measurement. A musician performing in an outdoor setting, or in a large space, will likely play more loudly on the whole, even if a piece requires soft dynamics. Conversely, a musician playing in an intimate setting such as a hall designed for chamber music can play less loudly and still achieve a loud dynamic. Dynamics are traditionally indicated by a range of Italian terms revolving around the terms piano (“soft”) and forte (“loud”), indicated in notated music with the letters p and f. These terms are further refined to include a range of louder and softer dynamics. The typical range proceeds as follows, from softest to loudest: pianissimo (pp), piano (p), mezzo-piano (mp), mezzo-forte (mf), forte (f), fortissimo (ff).

Is it okay to play piano with long nails?
Is it okay to play piano with long nails?

While it's totally possible to play with long nails and even be a professional pianist, it's much easier to play with shorter nails. You get more...

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Is pledge good for wood?
Is pledge good for wood?

Despite being sold as a furniture polish, you should also avoid using Pledge on your wood, as it builds up waxy layers of silicone that may hide...

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Can a self taught pianist be good?
Can a self taught pianist be good?

Now to come to the question: Can you teach yourself piano? Of course, you can. The only problem is that most people will only do their own teaching...

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What is ALT F4 on a 60% keyboard?
What is ALT F4 on a 60% keyboard?

Alt + F4 is a Windows keyboard shortcut that completely closes the application you're using. Jun 30, 2021

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