Patrick Hinsberger

With 2026 already well underway, it’s time to make good on those classic New Year's resolutions: whether you’re hoping to exercise more, have a healthier diet, or perhaps finally learn to play an instrument. At the top of many people's lists is the dream of learning to play the piano.

Perhaps you've also asked yourself: can you teach yourself to play the piano? The answer is a resounding yes! With the right method, a little patience and the appropriate teaching materials, you can definitely teach yourself. In this article, we'll show you how to turn your resolution into reality.

Music has become an integral part of films. What began in the silent film era as an accompaniment to images and a way to cover up projector noise is now an indispensable part of the movie-going experience. Film music both creates and enhances suspense, moves us to tears, and often stays in our minds longer than the images themselves. It is more than just background noise, it is an invisible actor that has a decisive influence on the impact of a story. At Schott Music, you will find not only numerous iconic works to play, but also published original works by great film composers. In this article, you will learn what makes film music special, how it is created, which composers have shaped it, and how you can play film music yourself.

On July 10, 2025, we commemorate the 130th anniversary of the birth of Carl Orff, one of the most influential composers and music educators of the 20th century. Renowned for his captivating composition "Carmina Burana", and as the intellectual father of the internationally adopted Orff Schulwerk, Orff left a lasting impact on music and education far beyond Germany’s borders. To mark the occasion, we take a look at his life, musical legacy, and the continued relevance of his music education philosophy today.

How do you find your own voice in jazz? Martin Jacobsen shares how Kind of Blue sparked his journey, what mistakes taught him on stage, and why limited technique can be a strength. In this interview, he reflects on self-teaching in Copenhagen, the essence of jazz as an aural tradition, and what players can learn from his books Let’s Speak Jazz and Let’s Play Jazz. An inspiring read about intuition, freedom—and trusting your own path.

Bruce Gertz is a renowned double bassist and has been an influential professor at Berklee College of Music for 48 years. As part of the vibrant Boston jazz scene, he has shaped countless bassists through his personalized teaching methodology that emphasizes building on students' strengths while developing their individual musical voices. What drives a musician who has collaborated with jazz giants like Jerry Bergonzi, Gary Burton, and John Abercrombie? How did Charles Mingus' album "Blues & Roots" transform his musical direction, and why does he still take lessons from legendary bassist Ron Carter after five decades of playing? Gertz shared these insights during our conversation.

Beyond performing, Gertz has released over 15 albums as a leader and many more as a sideman, with his debut album "Blueprint" marking a significant career milestone. His instructional book "Let's Play Rhythm" has become essential reading for aspiring musicians across all instruments. Whether teaching advanced improvisation techniques or advocating for the balance between ensemble and solo bass playing through his work with The International Society of Bassists, Gertz continues to inspire the next generation of jazz musicians.