Category: Band & Orchestra

Common Repairs for the Saxophone

Common Repairs for the Saxophone

Not only can saxophone repairs be costly, but some issues can take some time to fix–cutting away from valuable practice time that’s crucial to your progress and success. As with any instrument, it’s important to be aware of some common issues you might experience, and have a proper understanding of the causes and solutions to […]

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Clarinet Ligatures: How to Choose the Best One

Comparing the Buffet Crampon R13 and E11 Clarinets: What Are the Differences?

Young clarinetists often begin their instrumental music study with a plastic student clarinet, such as the Buffet Crampon Prodige.  As a student grows in ability and musical maturity, however, the need for a wood clarinet arises.  Advancing to a wood clarinet presents many, many options for the consumer and it can be confusing as to […]

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Viola Maintenance

Viola Maintenance: Keep Your Viola Sounding (& Playing) Its Best

Whether you’re a beginner or professional viola player, it’s important to educate yourself on the basics of viola maintenance so you can keep your instrument sounding and playings its best. Just like a car requires oil changes and regular maintenance, your viola also needs special attention and adjustments every now and then–not to mention frequent […]

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What’s the Difference Between a Reverse and Non-Reverse Leadpipe Trumpet?

What’s the Difference Between a Reverse and Non-Reverse Leadpipe Trumpet?

The leadpipe of a trumpet, or the section of tubing that runs from the mouthpiece to the first tuning slide, is usually about eight inches long and has a very distinct purpose: to help with control of airflow and accuracy of pitch. The leadpipe tapers very gradually, starting out narrower at the mouthpiece, and allows […]

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Different parts of the trombone

What Are the Different Parts of the Trombone?

If you’re thinking about enrolling your child in marching band, selecting an instrument is part of the process–and the trombone is a popular choice. The trombone’s ancestor was a medieval instrument called the sackbut, which looked a lot like the trombone except its bore was narrower and its bell wasn’t as wide. In the 17th […]

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How to Extend the Life of Your Cymbals

Although cymbals can last for over a decade with proper care and maintenance, they’re among the more delicate percussion instruments. Treating your cymbals with care, including setting them up properly and keeping them protected, can reduce the risk of damage and extend the life of your cymbals. Maintenance is often a matter of technique, and […]

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Violin Bow

Six Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Violin Bow

As a violin student advances from a beginner to an intermediate level, they may require a higher quality bow. The superior craftsmanship of a decent bow will provide them with the tools they need to improve their playing technique and tone. However, the cost of more professional bows can seem unusually expensive, especially to first-time […]

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Clarinet Ligatures: How to Choose the Best One

Clarinet Ligatures: How to Choose the Best One

So, you’ve been playing the clarinet for a while and want to start experimenting with its sound? Since a clarinet’s ligature affects how the reed vibrates, most clarinetists match their ligature to the type of music they’re playing. If you’re in the market for a new clarinet ligature, consider the type of clarinet you have, […]

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oboe guide

The Parent’s Guide for How to Buy an Oboe

So, your child wants to play the oboe. Whether you’re familiar with the instrument or not, taking the time to understand its key features is key. At the end of the day, buying an oboe is kind of like buying a car. Not only is it an investment in your child’s future, but you’ll need […]

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Clarinet Maintenance & Care: Tips & Advice

Essential Clarinet Accessories

If you’re interested in playing the clarinet, whether for the first time or once again, there are a few important clarinet accessories you should purchase before you even think about signing up for lessons. While some are essential to playing, others are essential to comfort and maintenance of your instrument. Provided you don’t lose or […]

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