December 12, 2024
Theo Wanne demonstrates the art of mouthpiece refacing at a clinic in Thailand, 2016. All images courtesy of Theo Wanne. The legendary saxophone mouthpiece designer tells the story of his hard-won success, and reflects on a lifetime of striving for peace and beauty through music. If it seems like there’s something extraordinary, even otherworldly, […]
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 […]
December 5, 2024
The global giant in instrument-making, Yamaha has produced progressive, meticulously crafted products for well over a century. In this guide, we cover the brand’s storied history and survey some of its groundbreaking gear. Yamaha is the world’s largest manufacturer of musical instruments, with a legacy spanning more than 130 years. The company’s unwavering quality […]
November 21, 2024
Yamaha’s YEV Pro electric violin retains the character and sound of an acoustic instrument while revolutionizing its range and aesthetic. When plugging in an electric violin, many players are looking for an instrument that delivers the volume and power to go head-to-head with an electric guitar. What they don’t want is an instrument that sounds […]
November 7, 2024
Young Swifties go wild at a Taylor covers show, part of the Saturday Morning Tunes concert series in Maryland. Image: Chris Gamber. Sam Sessa, founder of the kid-friendly concert series Saturday Morning Tunes, offers crucial tips for attending live shows with your little ones. Everyone remembers their first concert. The band, the venue, the people […]
November 6, 2024
Credit: Anna Yatskevich. In a new in-depth Music & Artists video interview, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra saxophonist talks about the importance of old-school ear training, the joyful camaraderie of big bands, and why making mistakes is a great way to learn. In many ways, the extraordinary career of saxophonist, woodwind doubler, composer and […]
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 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 22, 2024
Explore nylon-string technique with these tips from a veteran Nashville-based guitarist and Music & Arts instructor. The Nashville-based guitarist and educator William “Tiger” Fitzhugh, who teaches at the Music & Arts in Hendersonville, Tenn., is a fount of guitar knowledge spanning styles, techniques and eras. He’s also a delightfully funny, self-deprecating storyteller. To wit: Decades […]
