#359: Music Theory, Harmonic Series, Beach Boys with Tim Smolens

#359: Music Theory, Harmonic Series, Beach Boys with Tim Smolens

Author: Brian Funk February 20, 2024 Duration: 1:13:31

Tim Smolens is a musician, composer, and recording engineer. He teaches music theory on his YouTube channel and at High Castle Music Conservatory. Tim has toured and plays in the bands ISS and High Castle Teleorkestra.

Tim and I had an inspiring conversation about his work and appreciation of music and chord theory. Throughout the episode, Tim demonstrates the principles on his piano. We discussed the chord theory of the Beach Boys and Soundgarden, the evolution of recording technology, and much more.

Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

Show Notes:

Takeaways:

  • Tim Smolens' YouTube channel focuses on analyzing the chord progressions and music theory behind the Beach Boys' music.
  • The Beach Boys' music is known for its complexity and intricate production techniques.
  • Tim Smolens incorporates interesting chord progressions and extensions in his own music, drawing inspiration from various genres.
  • Home recording has evolved significantly, allowing musicians to create complex and layered compositions.
  • The way music is consumed and appreciated has changed, with a diminished passion for music in society. Music has a profound influence on philosophy and can be explored as a subject of study.
  • Learning to play an instrument can be challenging, but the struggle and resilience required can lead to a deeper appreciation and understanding of music.
  • Technology has revolutionized music production, allowing for greater control and experimentation in creating music.
  • The production of music plays a significant role in creating feelings, moods, and atmospheres.
  • The aesthetics of music, including tone production and composition, can greatly impact the emotional impact of a piece.
  • The studio itself can be considered an instrument, with its unique capabilities and effects on the music.
  • Different musical instruments offer unique challenges and opportunities for expression.
  • Timing and groove are essential elements in music, creating a sense of feel and energy.
  • Studio musicians have played a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of music throughout history.
  • The science of music and tuning, including the harmonic series, can provide a deeper understanding of the relationships between notes and harmonies.
  • Harmonic science is often overlooked in music education, but understanding it can enhance musical compositions and performances.
  • The cultural context in which music is created and perceived can influence the perception and appreciation of different musical elements. Balancing music with a busy life can be challenging, but it is possible to find time for creativity.
  • Creating a dedicated space for music and setting aside specific times for practice and composition can help prioritize musical pursuits.
  • Joining platforms like Patreon and music conservatories can provide valuable resources and support for musicians.
  • Embracing tangential conversations can lead to unexpected insights and creative ideas.

Thank you for listening. 

Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

And don't forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

Brian Funk

 


Brian Funk hosts the Music Production Podcast, a space where the technical meets the personal in the world of making music. This isn't a lecture series; it's a collection of conversations that feel like dropping into a studio with a knowledgeable friend. As a working musician, songwriter, teacher, and Ableton Certified Trainer, Brian approaches each topic with a practitioner's curiosity. Discussions flow naturally from the specifics of a piece of gear or a production technique into broader reflections on creative philosophy and the artistic process. You'll hear about the tools of the trade, but always through the lens of how they serve an idea or unlock a new way of working. The podcast thrives on informal dialogue, whether Brian is sharing his own experiences or talking with guests, making complex topics accessible and immediately relevant. It’s for anyone who builds songs from the ground up and thinks about the why just as much as the how. Tune in for honest, nuanced talks that go beyond simple tips and tricks, offering a deeper, more human perspective on the craft of music production.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Music Production Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Evan Frankfort - Songwriter, Sound Designer, Film and TV Composer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:43:52
Evan Frankfort is a Songwriter, Sound Designer, and TV and Film Composer. His TV and film credits include Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild, The Harlem Globetrotters: Pay it Forward, 90210, and The 100. He writes music a…
Francis Preve: The Man in the Synth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:05:03
Francis Preve is a sound designer, producer, and synthesizer programmer. He programs factory presets for the leading synthesizer manufacturers including Sequential, Roland, Korg, Oberheim, Serum, and many more. He is the…
#372: The Magic of Musical Collaboration with Boredomfighters [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:34:30
Tyler Manning and Jordan Dale are part of Boredomfighters, a nonprofit that brings music-making and collaboration to kids across the United States. Boredomfighters conducts workshops, assemblies, and "Instrument Gardens"…
#371: Recording an Entire Album Yourself with Dex Green [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:26:18
Dex Green is a Nashville-based producer, engineer, and songwriter. He recorded his new album, Imaginary War, by himself, playing every instrument. Dex has worked with artists like Elvis Costello, Margo Price, and Collect…
#370: How to Survive the AI Music Takeover [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:57
AI is getting really good at generating realistic and emotional music. Where will this leave music-makers? Today we discuss how we can ensure that we remain relevant in the face of an AI music takeover! Listen on Apple,…
#369: Consistency and Authenticity with Mikas of We Make Dance Music [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:36:11
Mikas is the creator of We Make Dance Music, a site of music resources for producers. On his podcast, Live Electronic Music Tutorials with Mikas, he creates tracks in real-time, sharing tips and techniques along the way.…
#368: Write Better Music Through Storytelling w/ Jeff Leisawitz [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:14:02
Jeff Leisawitz is a musician, producer, coach, college songwriting professor, and author. His new book The Magical Impact of Storytelling explores how creatives can connect with their audiences and produce more meaningfu…
#366: Helping Creators Create with Output CEO Gregg Lehrman [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:26
Gregg Lehrman is the founder and CEO of Output. Output is a music-creation software company created by musicians for musicians. Gregg is an ASCAP award-winning musician and producer who has worked in television and film.…
#365: Sound Design for Timbaland and Ableton with Sound Oracle [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:51:57
Sound Oracle is a music producer and sound designer. He has worked with the heavy hitters in the hip-hop world, and his sounds have been used in Grammy-winning songs by Timbaland, Jay-Z, Drake, and more. His latest packs…