All directors find their own ways to best help their beginning band students get started. As I did in my previous woodwind post, below I’ve shared some beginning brass approaches that have worked for me.
Tips from the Field for Beginning Band: Flute, Clarinet, and Alto Sax
Every band director develops their own strategies to start beginning students. I would like to share with you some things that I have found to work for me over the years.
Creating a Culture of Excellence in Your 2nd and 3rd Bands
The strength and depth of a program that has multiple bands depends on the vitality of its non-varsity ensembles. Many band programs have excellent varsity bands, but I believe that in the best band programs, every band is strong, whether there are two bands or ten.
The Dallas Brass: A Healthy Upper Register on the Trumpet
The ability to play in the upper register eludes many young trumpet players and frustrates their teachers. Most people would consider this skill to be “difficult,” but I want to change the way in which we discuss and approach the upper register.
Embracing Similarities #1: What Bands Can Learn From Orchestras
Many commonalities exist between the band and orchestra, yet an unnecessary divide can develop between the two. As leaders of large ensembles we are united by many common factors.
Tips for Improved Brass Fundamentals and Sound Practice
Editor’s note: As many of you know, Marie Speziale was the first female trumpet player to play in a major symphony orchestra.
The Dallas Brass: Improving Trombone Slide Technique
Upon first seeing a trombone, anyone can recognize that controlling the slide is going to be important.What few people realize is that the effects of slide technique extend well past the slide itself.
The Dallas Brass: Mental Triggers for High Brass Efficiency
It seems like one advantage of playing a brass instrument is that you can play many different notes with the same fingering, thanks to what is known as the harmonic series.
A Game Plan for Great-Sounding Saxophone
Producing a beautiful sound should be the first goal of any musician. Correct notes and rhythms performed with poor sound quality?
The Dallas Brass: Helping Students Switch to Tuba
Change happens. Students move, graduate, or are abducted by aliens. Whatever the reason, at some point you’re going to need some students to switch to tuba.