megan

Oct 06 2025

Meet Aaron Pearson: Music Royale’s New Violin & Viola Instructor

At Music Royale, we’re all about connecting musicians with the right teachers to help them grow, level up, and rock out on their instruments. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Aaron Pearson, our newest violin and viola instructor. Watch the full interview here!

Aaron isn’t just a musician, he’s a dedicated teacher who thrives on helping students discover their own sound, find confidence, and push through those “this is too hard” moments. Whether you’re brand new to strings or dusting off your bow after years away, Aaron is ready to meet you where you are and get you moving forward.

🎶 A Journey in Strings

Aaron’s story started at the piano, but it was the viola that caught his attention back in sixth grade. Drawn to its deeper, richer sound and its size (a great fit for his tall frame), he was hooked. From middle school string orchestra to collegiate study, Aaron has been immersed in music ever since.

Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance – UNC Greensboro (North Carolina)
Master’s Degree in Performance – The Ohio State University (Columbus, OH)

Along the way, he’s performed unforgettable pieces like Leslie Adams’ The Ecstasy of Love, a contemporary work that showcases the viola’s incredible range and rhythmic drive.

🎻 Why Violin and Viola?

If the violin is fiery and bright, the viola is the underdog with range, depth, and versatility. Aaron describes it as “the best of both worlds,” capable of soaring high like a violin or blending low like a cello.

It’s a chameleon of sound—a perfect instrument for players who want flexibility and unique tone. And with Aaron as your guide, you’ll learn how to harness that power, whether you want to shred through classical repertoire, vibe with contemporary hits, or simply enjoy playing music at home.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Philosophy: Support + Independence

Aaron believes in giving students space to discover their own “aha moments.” Instead of handing over every answer, he guides them to find solutions, building both skill and independence along the way.

“I really encourage students to come in with their own ideas—whether it’s a piece they’re dying to learn or a specific skill they’re excited to master. My job is to set them up for success and help them reach their goals.”

He welcomes students of all ages and levels, from absolute beginners to advanced players looking for refinement. If you love music, you belong in his studio.

🎵 Beyond the Lesson Room

Aaron also performs with the Columbus Cultural Orchestra, a unique ensemble that fuses R&B, hip-hop, and classical music into one powerful community sound. His commitment to both performance and education keeps his approach fresh, relevant, and connected to today’s music scene.

He continues to prepare for orchestral auditions, mentor younger chamber groups, and contribute to community outreach—all while building his teaching studio here at Music Royale.

⚡ Why Study with Aaron at Music Royale?

Personalized lessons built around your goals
A supportive teacher who challenges you while keeping it fun
Experience across classical, contemporary, and crossover genres
Lessons for violin and viola, open to all ages
A chance to join a community of musicians passionate about growth

🎟 Ready to Rock Your Strings?

Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or ready to push your playing to the next level, Aaron Pearson is here to help you unlock your potential.👉 Book your violin or viola lessons today at Music Royale and start your journey with Aaron.

Sep 28 2025

The Most Popular Songs Every Beginner Should Learn

Learning a new instrument is an exciting journey, but it can feel overwhelming when deciding what songs to start with. The best beginner pieces are ones that are recognizable, simple, and rewarding to play—helping you build confidence while reinforcing essential skills. Whether you’re diving into classical music, rocking out with a guitar, or strumming along to country classics, this guide will give you 30 must-learn songs to kickstart your musical journey.

🎻 10 Essential Classical Pieces for Beginners

Classical music is a fantastic foundation for technique, phrasing, and musical expression. Here are ten beginner-friendly pieces that every aspiring classical musician should try:

1. “Ode to Joy” – Ludwig van Beethoven (Piano, Violin, or Any Instrument)

2. “Minuet in G” – Johann Sebastian Bach (Piano or Violin)

3. “Fur Elise” (Opening Theme) – Ludwig van Beethoven (Piano)

4. “Canon in D” – Johann Pachelbel (Piano, Strings, or Guitar)

5. “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” – Traditional (Arranged by Mozart) (Any Instrument)

6. “Prelude in C Major” – Johann Sebastian Bach (Piano)

7. “Clair de Lune” (Opening Section) – Claude Debussy (Piano)

8. “Morning Mood” – Edvard Grieg (Piano, Flute, or Violin)

9. “The Entertainer” – Scott Joplin (Piano)

10. “Eine kleine Nachtmusik” (Opening) – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Strings or Piano)

These pieces are both beautiful and rewarding, helping beginners build a strong foundation in classical technique and musicality.

🎸 10 Essential Rock ‘n’ Roll Songs for Beginners

Rock ‘n’ roll is all about energy, attitude, and simple yet powerful chord progressions. If you’re picking up a guitar, bass, or keyboard, these songs will get you started:

1. “Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple (Iconic Riff on Guitar)

2. “Seven Nation Army” – The White Stripes (Bass Line, Easy Power Chords)

3. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses (Opening Riff for Guitar)

4. “Sunshine of Your Love” – Cream (Classic Blues-Rock Riff)

5. “Johnny B. Goode” – Chuck Berry (A Rock ‘n’ Roll Staple)

6. “Satisfaction” – The Rolling Stones (Simple but Legendary Riff)

7. “Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple (Yes, it’s so iconic it deserves another mention!)

8. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” – Bob Dylan / Guns N’ Roses (Easy Chords for Beginners)

9. “House of the Rising Sun” – The Animals (Classic for Guitar and Vocals)

10. “Rock and Roll All Nite” – KISS (Simple, Fun, and Iconic)

Each of these songs is built on basic chord progressions and memorable riffs, making them perfect for beginners looking to get comfortable with rock fundamentals.

🤠 10 Essential Country Songs for Beginners

Country music is rich in storytelling, simple chord progressions, and easy strumming patterns, making it an ideal genre for beginners. Here are ten must-learn songs:

1. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” – John Denver (A Country Classic)

2. “Jolene” – Dolly Parton (Simple Chord Progression with a Catchy Melody)

3. “Ring of Fire” – Johnny Cash (Easy Chords, Classic Country Vibe)

4. “Wagon Wheel” – Old Crow Medicine Show / Darius Rucker (Popular Sing-Along Tune)

5. “Tennessee Whiskey” – Chris Stapleton (Smooth, Bluesy, and Simple to Play)

6. “Folsom Prison Blues” – Johnny Cash (Great for Learning Country Rhythm)

7. “Friends in Low Places” – Garth Brooks (Iconic Country Song)

8. “On the Road Again” – Willie Nelson (A Must-Know for Any Country Musician)

9. “Achy Breaky Heart” – Billy Ray Cyrus (Simple Chords, Great Crowd-Pleaser)

10. “You Are My Sunshine” – Traditional (A Country Favorite That’s Easy to Learn)

These songs are fantastic for learning strumming patterns, storytelling, and basic chord transitions, making them excellent choices for country music beginners.

🎶 Final Thoughts: Start Playing Today!

No matter what genre you’re drawn to, learning a few easy, recognizable songs can boost your confidence and keep you motivated as you improve your skills. At Music Royale, we love helping musicians of all levels find the right songs, instruments, and lessons to grow their talents.

Looking for expert guidance? Stop by Music Royale in Powell, Ohio, and let our team help you find the perfect instrument and lessons to start your musical journey!

What Song Did You Learn First?

Drop a comment below and let us know which of these songs YOU started with! 🎶

Sep 20 2025

The Science Behind Learning Music: How It Improves Your Brain

For centuries, music has been celebrated for its ability to evoke emotion, bring people together, and serve as a creative outlet. But beyond its artistic value, learning music has profound effects on the brain, enhancing cognitive function, memory, and even emotional well-being. Scientific research has increasingly supported the idea that engaging in music education is more than just a fun activity—it’s a powerful tool for brain development.

Music and Brain Plasticity

One of the most significant findings in neuroscience is that learning music strengthens neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Studies show that musicians have greater gray matter volume in brain regions associated with auditory processing, motor skills, and executive function (Gaser & Schlaug, 2003). This means that playing an instrument or engaging in structured music training literally reshapes the brain, improving overall cognitive abilities.

Music and Memory Enhancement

Learning to read and play music engages multiple parts of the brain, including the hippocampus, which is critical for memory formation. Research by Hanna-Pladdy & Mackay (2011) found that older adults who had musical training in childhood had better verbal memory, cognitive flexibility, and executive function compared to those without musical experience. This suggests that the cognitive benefits of music education can last a lifetime.

Additionally, a 2014 study published in PLOS ONE found that students who received structured music education outperformed their peers in memory and attention tasks. The study concluded that music training improves working memory, which is essential for problem-solving, reasoning, and learning in other subjects (Bergman Nutley et al., 2014).

Music and Language Skills

Music and language processing share overlapping neural pathways, meaning that learning music can enhance linguistic abilities. A study conducted at Northwestern University (Kraus & Chandrasekaran, 2010) found that music training enhances the brain’s ability to process speech sounds, leading to improved reading skills and language development. This is especially beneficial for young children, as early musical training can help with phonemic awareness, a key predictor of reading success.

Music and Math: A Natural Connection

Many researchers have explored the link between music education and mathematical ability. A study by Vaughn (2000) found that students who participated in music programs scored significantly higher on standardized math tests than those without musical training. The rhythmic and structural elements of music—such as counting beats and recognizing patterns—engage the same neural networks used in mathematical reasoning.

Music and Emotional Intelligence

Beyond cognitive benefits, learning music also enhances emotional intelligence. Playing an instrument or singing in a group requires listening, empathy, and collaboration, all of which are essential social skills. A 2012 study in the Journal of Neuroscience (Schellenberg, 2012) found that children who received musical training exhibited higher levels of emotional understanding and social adaptability compared to their non-musical peers.

Conclusion: Music as Brain Training

The scientific evidence is clear—learning music is one of the most effective ways to enhance cognitive function, memory, language development, and emotional intelligence. Whether you’re a child just starting out or an adult picking up an instrument for the first time, the benefits of music training extend far beyond the rehearsal room.

At Music Royale, we believe in the power of music education to shape young minds and enrich lives. Whether you’re looking to enroll in lessons, explore a new instrument, or simply learn more about the benefits of music, we’re here to support your journey.

Ready to Boost Your Brain with Music?

Visit us at Music Royale in Powell, Ohio, and discover how learning music can change your life!

References:

• Bergman Nutley, S., Darki, F., & Klingberg, T. (2014). Music practice is associated with enhanced working memory and general intelligence. PLOS ONE.

• Gaser, C., & Schlaug, G. (2003). Brain structures differ between musicians and non-musicians. Journal of Neuroscience.

• Hanna-Pladdy, B., & Mackay, A. (2011). The relation between instrumental musical activity and cognitive aging. Neuropsychology.

• Kraus, N., & Chandrasekaran, B. (2010). Music training for the development of auditory skills. Nature Reviews Neuroscience.

• Schellenberg, E. G. (2012). Music training and nonmusical abilities. Journal of Neuroscience.

• Vaughn, K. (2000). Music and mathematics: Modest support for the oft-claimed relationship. Journal of Aesthetic Education.

Aug 22 2025

🎻 Music Royale Student Spotlight: Sophia P.

“Being musical just makes life more interesting.”

At Music Royale, your Friendly Neighborhood Music Store, we’re proud to support students who bring curiosity, talent, and heart to their musical journeys. This month, we’re turning the spotlight on Sophia P., a violinist whose story hits all the right notes from first lessons to personal breakthroughs to big dreams beyond the practice room.

Sophia’s full interview is live now—watch it here—and trust us, you’ll leave inspired.

🎻 Seven Years of Strings and Self-Discovery

Sophia started playing violin back in fifth grade. She’s been taking lessons at Music Royale for three years, but she’s been playing for over seven. Her first big hurdle? Getting that wrist under control and making her fingers cooperate with her brain. Classic violin struggles are real, but thanks to the guidance of her teacher, Megan Wetzel, Sophia powered through and found her groove.

And speaking of groove, her current favorite piece is “The Giver” by rising star Chappell Roan. “I feel like I really connect with it,” she says. But ask her about the piece she performed for her high school orchestra concert and her eyes light up: it was the “Howl’s Moving Castle” theme, a cinematic favorite that matched her vibe perfectly.

💡 Lessons That Go Beyond Technique

For Sophia, private lessons at Music Royale weren’t just about improving skills, they were about discovering her own voice.

“In orchestra, I blended in,” she explains. “But lessons gave me a sense of individuality in my playing. I started thinking more about how I want to sound, not just following the group.”

Through her time here, she mastered vibrato, improved her finger control, and gained a new confidence that comes through in every performance.

💥 Musical Taste with Edge

Sophia’s playlist? As cool and eclectic as she is. Top artists include Chappell Roan and Luna, but she’s quick to admit her musical taste is hard to pin down. From classical to jazz to fiddle tunes, she loves that the violin is not a one-sound-fits-all kind of instrument.

“You can do so much with it. It’s just a really cool instrument.”

If you’ve ever wondered what kind of sound you could make on the violin, it’s time to find out. Try your first lesson today.

🛠️ What’s Next: Theater Tech and Concert Dreams

This fall, Sophia heads to Bowling Green State University to major in Theater Technology and Design. She’s excited to work behind the scenes in concert venues, musical productions, and everything in between.

Her dream? To be the one making sure the show goes on.

Whether she’s tuning instruments, stage managing, or offering musical support backstage, Sophia’s learned that music is more than performance, it’s about connection, collaboration, and energy.

🌟 Advice from Sophia

To new musicians:

“Find what you want to play. That’s what makes it fun.”

To struggling musicians:

“It’s okay to step back. Look at the big picture before you focus on the details.”

To anyone thinking about trying music:

“Just do it. Even if it takes time, it’s so worth it.”

🧡 Why She Loves Music Royale

Sophia’s favorite part of lessons? “It never felt like a chore,” she says. “It was something I looked forward to. The people are kind, the vibe is great, and my teacher was the perfect fit.”

That’s the experience we work hard to create every day at Music Royale, a place where you can grow, explore, and feel right at home. From our convenient location to our warm, welcoming atmosphere, we’re here to make music feel good.

🎥 Catch the Full Interview

Ready to meet Sophia and hear her story in her own words?

👉 Watch the Student Spotlight video now

👉 Learn more about violin lessons

👉 Meet our teachers

👉 Sign up for your first lesson

👉 Check out upcoming recitals and events

👉 Shop gear and strings

👉 Explore all student stories on our blog

From blending into orchestra sections to stepping into her own spotlight, Sophia’s journey is a reminder of what happens when music becomes personal.

Here’s to the future of music and to the students who keep it alive.

Rock on, Sophia. 🎶🎭🔥

Aug 08 2025

A Complete Guide to Guitar Strings: What You Need to Know

Choosing the right guitar strings is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a guitarist. The right set can enhance your tone, improve playability, and even extend the life of your instrument. Whether you’re playing acoustic, electric, or bass guitar, understanding string gauge, type, and material will help you find the perfect match for your playing style.

🎸 Things to Consider When Choosing Guitar Strings

1. String Gauge: Thickness Matters

String gauge refers to the thickness of the strings, measured in thousandths of an inch. Lighter strings are easier to play, while heavier strings offer a fuller tone.

Common Acoustic String Gauges:

• Extra Light (10-47): Easier to press down, great for beginners or fingerstyle playing.

• Custom Light (11-52): A balance between easy playability and fuller tone.

• Light (12-53): Standard for many acoustic guitars—good for strumming and fingerpicking.

• Medium (13-56): Louder, richer sound, but requires stronger fingers. Ideal for bluegrass and aggressive strumming.

Common Electric String Gauges:

• Super Light (9-42): Best for fast lead playing and easy bending.

• Light (10-46): The most popular all-around gauge for versatility.

• Medium (11-49): A bit heavier for a richer tone and more sustain.

For bass guitars, string gauge also varies, but most players use light (40-100), medium (45-105), or heavy (50-110) sets depending on their playing style and preferred tension.

2. String Type: Round Wound vs. Flat Wound

The way strings are wound affects their feel and sound.

• Round Wound: The most common type, featuring a textured surface and bright, punchy tone. Great for rock, pop, and country.

• Flat Wound: Smoother feel with a warmer, darker tone. Preferred by jazz and blues musicians for their mellow sound and reduced finger noise.

For bass guitars, flat-wound strings provide a smoother, more vintage tone, while round-wound bass strings offer more attack and brightness.

3. String Materials: What Difference Does It Make?

Different materials produce different tones and playing characteristics.

Acoustic Guitar String Materials:

• Phosphor Bronze: Warm, balanced tone with rich overtones (popular for most styles).

• 80/20 Bronze: Brighter, crisper tone but with a shorter lifespan.

• Silk & Steel: Softer feel, great for fingerpicking and folk music.

Electric Guitar String Materials:

• Nickel Wound: A mix of warmth and brightness, ideal for rock and blues.

• Stainless Steel: Brighter and more resistant to corrosion, great for heavy metal and high-gain tones.

• Pure Nickel: A warmer, vintage tone, preferred by classic rock and blues players.

Bass Guitar String Materials:

• Nickel-Plated Steel: The most common choice, offering a balanced tone.

• Stainless Steel: Brighter and punchier with more sustain.

• Flatwound Chrome: Warmer and smoother for jazz and vintage styles.

🎶 Top Guitar String Brands to Consider

Finding the right brand is just as important as selecting the right gauge and material. Here are some of the most trusted and popular brands for acoustic, electric, and bass guitar strings.

Acoustic Guitar Strings:

• D’Addario: EJ, XT, XS (reliable and consistent quality)

• Ernie Ball Earthwood: Rich, bright tone

• Martin & Co Authentic Acoustic: Warm, balanced sound

• GHS: Great for vintage tones

• Elixir: Long-lasting coated strings

Electric Guitar Strings:

• D’Addario: EXL, XS, XT (versatile and durable)

• Ernie Ball Slinky: One of the most popular choices for electric guitars

• Ernie Ball Paradigm: High durability with great tone

Bass Guitar Strings:

• D’Addario: Reliable tone for all styles

• Ernie Ball Slinky Bass: Bright and punchy, used by many professionals

🔎 How to Choose the Right Strings for You

1. Consider Your Playing Style: If you’re a lead guitarist, lighter strings will help with fast runs and bending. If you’re a rhythm player, medium or heavy strings offer more depth.

2. Think About Tone: Bright and twangy? Warm and mellow? Choose your material accordingly.

3. Evaluate Comfort: If your hands get fatigued easily, opt for lighter gauges or coated strings.

4. Assess Durability: If you hate changing strings often, coated strings (like Elixir or D’Addario XS) will last longer.

🎵 Final Thoughts: The Perfect Strings for Your Sound

Your choice of guitar strings has a huge impact on tone, feel, and playability. Whether you’re looking for warm, rich acoustic tones, punchy electric sounds, or deep, resonant bass notes, choosing the right strings will make all the difference.

At Music Royale, we carry a wide selection of top brands and string types to help every guitarist find their perfect match. Stop by our shop in Powell, Ohio, and let our experts help you find the best strings for your guitar and playing style!

💬 What’s Your Favorite Guitar String Brand?

Drop a comment below and let us know which strings you swear by! 🎸