Question: What is the difference between a MIDI backing Track and an MP3 backing track?
Answer: The MP3 backing track is essentially the same backing track I use on the videos. The instruments sound very realistic and the file is played back on Windows media player or any program capable of playing MP3 music files. The tempo can be adjusted, but only if you use a special audio editing program. Audacity is a free program for Windows that will allow you to adjust the tempo of the MP3 file.
The MIDI backing track uses your sound card to play back the file so the quality of the sound of the instruments is dependent on the quality of your sound card. This means it usually does not sound as good as an MP3 nbacking track, however it does have the advantage of easy tempo adjustments using a standard MIDI player programs like the ones I have linked on the IMPORTANT INFO PAGE of this web site.
Question: Where are my downloaded files stored on my computer?
Answer: For Windows Explorer: When you download the files, Windows usually saves them in the Downloads folder which is located under your user name in the users folder on the drive where Windows is installed (for example C:\users\your name\downloads). For other browsers, check your browsers help file. If you purchase a .zip combo file, these will have to be "unzipped" before you can use them.
Question: Why are the PDF notation files not completly accurate?
Answer: The PDF notation file is a computer generated notation file from the MIDI file of my playing. It contains all of the notes I play in the piano part however they may not be exactly in the correct spot in the measure or be in the right clef. Also, there are occasional overlapping of notes. It will not be the same quality as a professional transcription, but since all of the notes are there, you can analyze the solo and breakdown the lines.
Question: Can I request a song or backing track?
Answer: Absolutely! Send your requests using the CONTACT FORM on this website.
Question:Can you give me a description of the files available for download?
Answer:Description of Files for Download:
Piano MIDI File - This contains the PIANO PART ONLY in MIDI format. This file can be played using many different types of audio programs. Many MIDI programs will allow you to slow this down to analyze note-by-note exactly what is being played.
PDF Notation File - This is a notation file in PDF format and has been computer generated from the MIDI Piano File. This may not be completely notation correct (notes not exactly on the proper beat in the measure), but does contain all the notes from the piano solo. This is not the same as a professional note-for-note transcription, but for only a buck-fifty, it's a pretty good deal. (click here to download sample notation)
MP3 Backing Track File - This is the same backing track (usually Bass and Drums) I used to create the YouTube video. It is at the same tempo as in the video.
MIDI Backing Track File - This contains a backing track similar but not identical to what is used in the video however using MIDI data. The quality of the instruments are dependent on your sound card. The advantage to this is that you may adjust the playback speed using a MIDI player to allow you to play the song at a tempo of your choosing. Many MIDI programs will also allow you to adjust the key so you can try playing over the backing track in a different key.
Question: Do you offer private Skype lessons?
Answer: Yes!! Here is how it works:
I have a video camera set-up over my keyboard so you can see my hands on the keyboard just like in my YouTube videos. I do not have to see your hands at the keyboard, I just need to hear what you are playing. Some people place the webcam to give me a side view of you at your keyboard, but this is not necessary. You should have a set-up that allows you to view your computer screen easily from your piano keyboard for the lesson. Placing it directly in front of the keyboard is desirable.
I do not spend a great deal of time on technique as there are many ways to approach this and each person brings their own unique voice to their playing which is somewhat dependent on their individual technique. I can certainly help with methods that help me, but this may not be aligned with "traditional" or "classical" technique.
Each lesson will last for 50 minutes and will cover any aspect of playing that you wish to learn. This can include chord voicings, right hand solo techniques, etc. By letting me know what you would like to cover in a lesson, I can prepare some material for you ahead of time to make better use of our time during the lesson. Many times we will just focus on playing and improvising over a particular song. While I can give a few exercises to practice, I prefer to cover the practical side of playing, allowing you to put the skills learned in a lesson to use right away. Lesson times are determined according to convenience of both schedules, I am on EST (New York) time zone.
There is no set amount of lessons or time frame between lessons. Whenever you feel the need for a lesson just contact me and we will set one up. Each lesson costs $50 USD and is payable through PayPal. Full instructions are given prior to the lesson when payment is due. In addition, I am usually able to make a video recording of the lesson for you to download and view for reference and to help with your practicing. Please contact me using the CONTACT FORM on this website to set-up a lesson.