Find tips and helpful tools for becoming a better band or orchestra instrumentalist. Geared toward the beginner or advancing musician.
Many of the world’s most successful people participated in school music at some point in their lives. From astronauts and politicians to actresses and CEOs, lots of people learned valuable skills in music class. School music programs have had an impact on far more people than those who go on…
Finding gifts can be hard. You want to get something meaningful and worthwhile, and at the same time, get something the recipient will be delighted by. I’ve given and received gifts that have gone over like a lead balloon. How much of a hero would you be if you got…
The end of school is just around the corner. Before we know it, summer will be here! There are so many fun activities in the summer. Going to cookouts, swimming at the pool, and spending time with friends are just a few options. For many kids across the U.S., summer…
Unity is difficult to find these days. Elections tear people apart and make it hard for anyone to agree with each other. I mean, people almost went to war arguing whether or not a sound byte said “Laurel” or “Yanny” last year. Not to mention that YouTube comment sections are…
It’s imperative for young musicians and audience members to have proper concert etiquette. Ah, band and orchestra concerts. A culmination of hard work and steady practice. A beautiful movement of notes and harmonies from dozens of young musicians. A triumphant moment for band and orchestra directors and parents alike as…
Whether you are renting a clarinet, saxophone or other reed instrument right now, thinking about it, or playing your 500th concert, understanding reeds will help you create the highest quality sounds and care well for your reeds. If you’re a parent whose child plays any type of reed instrument for…
Summer has come to a close, which can only mean one thing…it’s time for students to enter a brand new school year. We’ve put together a guide for every music student to follow as you head back to school and enter music classes – band or orchestra – for the first…
Summer is here, and regular routines are being replaced with recreation and relaxation. Between barbecues, pool days and sports leagues, summer instrument practice can fall by the wayside. So we’ve rounded up a list of summer practice tips from a few our favorite sources. These five quick reads will…
Not many people see band directors as educators with an especially difficult career. For most, we don’t blame them. How would the average person know? But for others, like administrators, teachers and colleagues, it’s really a shame they don’t see it. While we can probably all agree that that the…
Band camp is on the horizon! Are you ready? Many bands offer their own recommended list of items to have for band camp, so check with your director. Check out our recommendations below and feel free to add your own in the comments! Sun/Heat Protection Hat or Cap A wide…
