Instrumental

Trying to keep a rehearsal running smoothly with a collection of musicians is difficult enough as it is.  Add to that the unpredictable outdoors, a plethora of competitions, and a…

With limited resources for many music programs these days, proper instrument upkeep has never been more important.  While you need to handle major repairs with a complete instrument repair kit,…

Over the past few posts, we have been discussing the qualities that define an excellent student leader.  The first two traits this three-part series has explored are a student’s attitude…

In Part I, we explored the undeniable tie between a student leader’s attitude of service and the ensemble’s willingness to follow a leader who exhibits this indispensible trait.  While foundational, attitude…

With marching band season gearing up once again, directors find themselves looking to their flock of students in search of that indispensible percentage that will prove themselves leaders.

I recently had the honor of interviewing composer and teacher Frank Ticheli. In addition to composing, he joined the faculty of the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music…

Looking back on my high school and college percussion studies, I recall working through many of Garwood Whaley’s books.  I particularly liked working with Recital Solos for Snare Drum and Primary…

We were all deeply saddened to hear the news that Francis McBeth passed away Friday, January 6th.  Dr. McBeth was a very well respected and admired figure in the concert…

Sean O’Loughlin is a rising name in the music world.  His music is characterized by vibrant rhythms, passionate melodies, and colorful scoring.

Larry Clark’s pieces have been performed internationally and appear on numerous contest/festival lists.  He  is an ASCAP award-winning composer with over 200 titles in print and is in high demand…

A graduate of Indiana University (Bloomington), and Director of Band Publications for Hal Leonard Corporation in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Michael Sweeney has over 500 publications to his credit. As a winner…

An active composer, conductor and performer, Brian Balmages’ fresh style of composition has put him in high demand for his wind, brass and orchestral music worldwide. Mr. Balmages’ compositions have…

Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing Robert Sheldon, Concert Band Editor for Alfred Music Publishing, and was able to gain some insight into the types of things that inspire his writing…

I recently enjoyed a Ballston Spa Community Band concert while attending the New York State School Music Conference in Albany, New York. Prior to the concert, I had the opportunity…