Do you like the emotional piano music of Yann Tiersen and Ludovico Einaudi? And would you like to learn how to write beautiful piano music just like that and also be able to play it? Let’s dive in!
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If you know how to play the piano, then most likely you would also like to explore your creative side. Writing and playing your own piano music can be rewarding and it also gives you a chance to apply all your piano-playing skills.
The piano music of Yann Tiersen or Ludovico Einaudi has inspired many generations of pianists. And it is also a favourite among music lovers. Their music is captivating, emotional and engaging.
But how do you write your own piano music? To write beautiful piano music apply these easy steps:
Write a minor-oriented chord progression
Convert it to a 3/4 or 6/8 time signature for a better flow
Play the bass note on the 1st or heavy beat and full chords on the upbeats
Write a very simple and singable piano melody
Use chord inversions to create a smooth bass line
Use arpeggios to add interest and movement
Double the melody an octave higher for variation
With full chords, double your bass notes for a warm and heavier sound
Video Tutorial: Write Beautiful Piano Music Like Yann Tiersen
Do you want to learn how to write a melody on the piano and your own piano music in just a few steps? Then I advise you to watch my video tutorial. Here you can listen to all the steps that I apply. Afterwards I recommend you read the full article. And if you want to learn more about songwriting and composing then check out my other songwriting and composing articles!
Write Your Piano Chord Progression
What do you do when you want to write beautiful piano music that is emotional, melancholic yet also happy? You will need to have a piano chord progression that has both major and minor chords in it. I would suggest you start with a minor chord, but then major switch to a major chord for your next one.
Chord progressions that flow naturally are progressions with chords that have many notes in common. In music theory that is called chords that have a mediant relationship. Because most notes stay the same when switching from chord to chord, your piano chord progression will sound smooth and natural.
Choosing the right time signature
Music that is written in a 3/4 or 6/8 time signature tends to have a more bouncy and uplifting feel to it. When you want to write beautiful piano music that flows nicely, then you will want to try it out.
An important detail to get a waltz feel is to play the bass note on the down beats or on the heavy beats and your full chords on the upbeats.
Write a simple piano melody
In this type of music, it is essential that your melody if very singable. But what makes your melody easy and singable? Well, first of all, you don’t want to use too many notes and try to keep the rhythm simple. Write something that you could whistle. You can always make your piano melody more difficult afterwards of you like.
Use chord inversions for a nice bass line
When you have a piano chord progression with chords that have many notes in common, then you can create some really nice basslines. Let me explain!
The bass note does not always have to be the root note of your chord. It could also be the third or the 5th. So if you already know how to write a melody on the piano. And if have your chord progressions in place, then I suggest you try some chord inversions to create some interest when necessary.
Adding arpeggios for variation
Arpeggios are chords but then played note by note. This is a very effective and great technique when you are writing beautiful piano music that does not get boring.
By adding arpeggios you will create a new movement and a new melodic element. and the great thing is you don’t have to write any new melodies or music. You just use the chords that are already in your piano chord progression!
Adding brightness to your melody
Does your piano melody start to sound a bit dull? You can add some extra brightness by doubling your melody an octave higher.
It is easy and very effective. I suggest you try it out with your other piano music as well!
Double your piano bass notes
When you end a piece with full chords. A great technique is to double your bass note an octave lower. This creates extra body and a full sound.
Conclusion
Piano music is something special. I think we can all agree on that. And nothing is as asitfying when you can play your own music that you wrote personally.
With these steps and music writing tips, you can write beautiful piano music in any style you like. Just keep in mind that you don’t have to use all of these tips that I gave you.
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About Yann Tiersen
Yann Tiersen was born in France in 1970. The old music from his hometown in Brittany was an early source of inspiration. And when he was young, he learned to play many different instruments and loved to make music that connects the past with the present.
People say that Yann Tiersen’s music is like a journey through different feelings. Some of his music makes you reflect on yourself, while some makes you want to dance. He often mixes different kinds of music to make something new and exciting.
In 2016, he released an album called “Eusa,” and each song was about a special place on an island. It is like a map made of music that tells stories about different spots on Earth.
Yann Tiersen’s music is known to make you feel things in your heart even without using words. People say that when he plays music live, it feels like he’s talking to you. Yann Tiersen’s music reminds us that feelings can be beautiful, even when they’re hard or too emotional to explain.
About Ludovico Einaudi
Ludovico Einaudi is a widely popular musician and composer from Italy. He was born on November 23, 1955, in Turin. At a young age, Einaudi started playing the piano while also learning about different types of music. He eventually ended up going to music school.
To many, Einaudi’s music is special because it’s like a conversation without words. In his often not-too-complex music, he uses the piano to tell stories that touch people. One of his most famous pieces is called “Nuvole Bianche,” which means “White Clouds.” Another famous piece is “Una Mattina,” which means “One Morning.”
Ludovico Einaudi’s music has been used in many movies, commercials, and even ballet performances. Due to its relatively simple character but high emotional impact his music is very suitable to be used in other art forms. His music helps people connect with their inner feelings and makes them contemplate the world around them.
Hi my name is Xander and I am a Composer, Songwriter and Music Educator with a degree in music composition. I teach many students all over the world via private music classes and via my YouTube channel, Learning Music Skills.
As a composer, educator and content creator, my goal is to share all aspects of the process of making music. I want to give everyone the tools necessary to be able to understand, enjoy and create music. No matter the genre or skill level. If you have any questions or when you want to work together, please contact me.
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