September 19, 2019
What’s the difference between a baritone and euphonium? It’s possible that you have never heard of a euphonium and the word “baritone” may make you think of the male voice or perhaps baritone saxophone. In fact, they are both brass instruments, invented fairly recently (in the 1840’s). The confusion between a euphonium and baritone is […]
February 7, 2025
Four great saxophonists in modern and contemporary jazz — Dave Koz, Gerald Albright, Lakecia Benjamin and Miguel Zenón — offer expert advice based on decades of selecting, preparing and storing reeds.
January 28, 2025
The world-renowned banjo master offers beginner tips as well as insight into his Gold Tone Mastertone “Bluegrass Heart” banjo.
October 11, 2024
Credit: Willa Rohrer. The director of the groundbreaking saxophone ensemble reflects on the teachers who changed his life, his own career as an educator, his Selmer horns and more. Matthew Levy didn’t pick up the saxophone with the intention of pursuing a career in classical music. Growing up in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, Levy […]
September 6, 2024
Running a successful band and orchestra program takes more than musical talent and dedication—it also requires financial savvy and resourcefulness. While some schools are flush with cash, most have limited funds and need to make every dollar in the budget count. In order to get the money you need to have a successful band and […]
July 11, 2022
Every year, millions of kids are introduced to music for the first time through their school’s band program. For many parents, this is their first experience with band and orchestra, too. The experience doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’re a first-time band parent, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll get you up to […]
May 17, 2022
If you’re the parent of a budding musician, or a budding musician yourself, you’ll need to keep their instrument in tip-top shape. We’ll break down some essential band accessories your child will need. If your band director has provided us with their preferred items, just look up their school supply list, find their instrument, and head […]
November 8, 2020
Dedicated practice, natural ability, and drive are important factors that contribute to a musician’s progress and success. Something that’s not always talked about is the profound impact the quality of an instrument has on a musician’s sound. A well-crafted flute or clarinet has the power to bring out a player’s peak performance. When a player […]
October 16, 2020
For choral directors and vocalists alike, knowing the ins and outs of vocal range is a huge deal. From getting the most out of a choir’s performance to keeping a singer’s voice vibrant and healthy, vocal range knowledge is mandatory for music educators, choral directors, composers, and singers. If you’re interested in the world of […]
October 12, 2020
Internationally renowned musician Dave Koz has been playing a saxophone that he’s had for over 20 years. The Yamaha artist’s main alto is a silver-plated YAS-62 sax that was his backup until the theft of his car and some of his instruments in 1997. On all of his instruments, Koz uses Rico Royal plasticover #3 reeds with the standard […]
