Samuel O'Connor

Piano & Theory Writer

Samuel O'Connor

Samuel makes piano and theory approachable for people who think they're 'not musical.' He believes steady practice beats natural talent every time.

Articles

10 articles by Samuel

A close-up of piano keys, showing the pattern of white and black keys.
Practice 7 min read

Music Theory Basics for Beginners

A gentle introduction to music theory basics — notes, the musical alphabet, scales, keys, intervals, and chords — explained plainly so it finally makes sense to beginners.

An open music book on a stand with a pencil resting across the printed notes.
Practice 6 min read

How to Improve Your Sight-Reading

Practical ways to get better at sight-reading music — how to keep your eyes moving, read ahead, hold a steady pulse, and build the skill with short daily practice.

A close-up of printed sheet music showing notes on the staff and time signatures.
Practice 6 min read

How to Read Sheet Music From Scratch

A friendly, jargon-free guide to reading sheet music from zero — the staff, notes, clefs, and rhythm explained simply so a total beginner can start decoding a page.

A grand piano keyboard photographed from an angle.
Piano 6 min read

How to Practice Piano Scales

Practice piano scales the useful way: correct fingering, smooth thumb crossings, and a calm routine that actually builds speed, evenness, and real musical skill.

Sheet music open on a stand beside a piano keyboard.
Piano 6 min read

How to Read Sheet Music for Piano

A patient beginner's guide to reading piano sheet music: the two staves, note names, rhythm, and how to turn dots on a page into music you can play.

A close-up of the black and white keys of a piano.
Piano 6 min read

How to Play Piano Chords as a Beginner

A clear, beginner-friendly guide to playing your first piano chords, understanding major and minor shapes, and using a handful of them to play real songs.