December 18, 2024
Music & Arts teachers share best practices for building a successful teacher-parent rapport. When Andrew Kasab started taking piano lessons as a 5-year-old, his mother would sit in to follow along with Andrew’s progress and reinforce his lessons at home. Decades later, after Kasab became a guitar and bass teacher at Music & Arts, […]
December 11, 2024
William F. Ludwig and his son William Jr., both musicians as well as businessmen, represent the Ludwig brand, which bought Musser Mallet Percussion in 1966. Image courtesy of Conn Selmer. The history of Ludwig-Musser Percussion weaves together the stories of two pioneering companies and their visionary namesakes. From the beginning, music education has informed the […]
December 6, 2024
As Yamaha clinicians, the swing-revival aces take their fun-loving approach to schools across the country. Glen “The Kid” Marhevka, featured trumpet soloist and lead clinician, reflects on music education and how the retro-swing movement changed the perception of band kids. When trumpeter and educator Glen “The Kid” Marhevka looks back on all the shows […]
October 31, 2024
The legendary bassist on his school-band experiences, his greatest teachers and how his mustache led to the end of his tuba career. Plus: Inside Levin’s BEAT touring rig Around 2019, Tony Levin was deep into another tour with King Crimson, playing some of the most complex and intimidating prog-rock ever recorded. Warming up backstage after […]
October 30, 2024
The DIVA Jazz Orchestra leader on technique, teaching, gear and why stuffing a blanket inside your bass drum isn’t the answer. Plus: the 5 common pitfalls for developing big-band drummers For a young Sherrie Maricle, there was never any question about where to focus her efforts behind the kit. “It was definitely jazz, and it […]
October 25, 2024
Terence Blanchard. Credit: Cedric Angeles. Terence Blanchard, Ethan Iverson, Aaron Diehl, Helen Sung, Natalie Tenenbaum and other luminaries talk about the issues surrounding the jazz/classical divide—from technique and theory to conservatory culture and diversity. “I didn’t know you were allowed to play the piano like that.” So recalls the acclaimed jazz pianist and composer […]
The bond between musician and musical instrument is special. Most seasoned players will even describe their instrument as an extension of themselves. However, as you progress, you may find yourself at a crossroads: Do you stick with your trusty companion, or is it time to upgrade to something new? Let’s dive into the importance of […]
October 14, 2024
Veteran educators share important and practical considerations for music selection. No two band programs are alike, and there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for choosing music. Yet there are certain overarching topics and themes that steer those decisions and build a foundation for brilliant student performances. In this primer, experienced band directors from across the country, spanning […]
October 7, 2024
Essential tips for making the most out of your focused practice time. It’s happened to all of us. You sit down with your instrument with the intention of practicing, but quickly feel overwhelmed by all the choices you have to make. Where do I even start? Am I practicing the right way? What should I […]
Understanding the fundamental maintenance tasks that will help your guitar stay in tune. It’s hard to overstate the importance of having a guitar that consistently plays in tune. Many beginners struggle more than necessary simply because their instrument isn’t set up correctly. Proper tuning and intonation can make the difference between becoming a lifelong guitarist […]
