Ear Training through Go Tell It On the Mountain

Piano Improv Lessons and Online Singing Improvisation

Now another Maestro Musical Advent Calendar Tutorial: Developing Online Singing Improvisation and Piano Improv Lesson

Go Tell it On the Mountain Background

“Go Tell It On the Mountain” is a traditional African-American spiritual song that holds deep roots in the history of African-American culture and the tradition of spirituals. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States during the 19th century among enslaved African Americans.

The song’s origins lie in the oral tradition of passing down stories, messages, and teachings through music. “Go Tell It On the Mountain” was often sung during religious gatherings, especially in African-American churches. Its lyrics carry themes of spreading the news of the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrating the gospel message.

One fascinating anecdote associated with this song revolves around its authorship. While the song’s origins remain somewhat uncertain and are part of the oral tradition, it was first published by John Wesley Work Jr., an African-American composer and educator, in his collection of spirituals in 1907. However, the song likely predates this publication and was already well-known within the African-American community.

Over time, “Go Tell It On the Mountain” has transcended its religious origins and has been embraced as a Christmas carol by a broader audience. The spirited and joyful melody, coupled with its powerful message of spreading good news, has made it a beloved part of the holiday season.

This song’s significance extends beyond its musicality. It serves as a symbol of resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of a people who found strength and hope in the face of adversity. Its lively tune and powerful lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, carrying the legacy of a cultural heritage rooted in struggle and triumph.

“Go Tell It On the Mountain” stands as a testament to the enduring power of music in expressing faith, celebrating tradition, and spreading messages of joy and hope.

Ear Training:  Two Part Hearing

Today it’s time for some ear training, specifically the ability to hear two things at the same time (two-part hearing). Let’s use Go Tell it On the Mountain, a pentatonic melody (works on the 5 black notes) and explore canons, re-harmonisation, word-painting plus the addition of a cheesy modulation and a tritone substitution!

Ear Training for Vocal Improvisation

This is so important for singers of all kinds. For instance, if you are a pop vocalist, you may want to decorate and try to vocally improvise like Mariah Carey and you need to be sure that your notes fit with the band behind you.  It’s your ear training that enables you to do that.

Ear Training and Choral Singing

If you sing in a choir, particularly if you sing a-capella (unaccompanied), you need to be able to hear the other singers at the same time and know that you are in tune.

Ear Training for Piano Improvisation

If you are a pianist or organist improvising, you’ll want to play a bass as well as a melody, at the same time. In this piano improv lesson, I add a little re-harmonisation, a specific chord to paint a word (“light”) and a cheesy modulation, alongside a tritone substitution for the final cadence!

The Maestro Online Courses

The interesting thing about The Maestro Online Piano Improv Courses and Online Singing Improvisation Courses is that you can literally do whatever you like! What do I mean by that? You are taught the skills that entirely free you up to make your decisions because you have the musicianship skills to arrange pieces or improvise on them as a vocalist, pianist or organist, as you wish.

Take a look at the video as I explain.

I challenge you to a daily Christmas musical journey. Post and share!

Relative Solfege and the Kodaly Method

All courses use bespoke, Kodaly inspired methodology and develop core musicianship skills rather than simply being “copy me” tutorials. Develop the skills to play every piece that you want, the way that you want.

Music Courses Online – the affordable way to learn and play.