Tutor profile: Heidi S.

How can I get past writer's block?

There are many good ideas about how to get past writer's block, but here's one I don't hear often: create a writing routine. For example, sit down to write in the same place every time, read for a few minutes (maybe some writing and grammar rules, maybe a favorite author, noting the structural reasons you like that author), and begin writing. Sometimes you may need to write down an outline of what you'd like to accomplish in that session. A routine teaches your brain that it's time to write, and you'll more easily get into the space of readiness and creativity.

What is an augmented sixth chord?

An augmented sixth chord is a non-diatonic chord that always contains at least three notes: the tonic note, the lowered sixth (thinking in a major key, or, in a minor key, the sixth from the natural minor scale), and the raised fourth. The Italian form of the augmented sixth chord has just those three notes in if. The French form adds the second scale degree. The German form adds the lowered third (thinking in a major key, or, in a minor key, the third scale degree from the natural minor scale).

What are the elements of music?

Music has three main elements that combine to make it unique to its culture, form, and time. These are melody, harmony, and rhythm. Melody is the main tune you hear, the catchy part that gets stuck in your head. Harmony is made up of all the supporting notes and chords other than the melody. Rhythm is the combination of strong beats and weaker beats that bring a sense of motion to the music, like syllables and words combine in stronger and weaker beats (think of poetic feet) to make the motion of language.