April 20, 2026
Paul Carr’s All-State Jazz Audition Essentials
Conquer All-County and All-State with these strategies from the eminent educator and saxophonist.
Powered by Music & Arts, the Woodwind & Brasswind Journal celebrates the legacy of Woodwind & Brasswind — the legendary musical-instrument retailer founded in South Bend, Indiana, in 1978. For nearly half a century, Woodwind & Brasswind served dedicated musicians of all ages and genres with expert customer support and an industry-defining selection. More than a store, Woodwind & Brasswind nurtured a vibrant community through its warmly remembered catalog, pioneering website and destination storefront. Today, the Journal continues that mission, offering artist interviews, lessons, gear guides and other features for discerning players who live and breathe music.
April 10, 2026
Sherrie Maricle: Secrets of Big-Band Drumming
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.
December 10, 2025
‘No Retrograde Inversions!’: Randy Brecker in Conversation
Now 80, the legendary trumpeter talks about his practice regimen, classic sessions with Steely Dan, Paul Simon and other icons, and that time he bonded — briefly and weirdly — with Miles Davis over wah-wah pedals.
October 17, 2025
Battle Band: Eric Alexander & Vincent Herring in Conversation
Two of jazz’s premier saxophonists on 20 years of friendly competition, the secrets of impromptu arranging, and why Hank Mobley wrote remarkable tunes.
September 18, 2025
Quincy Jones in Memoriam: Christian McBride Pays Tribute
McBride, one of jazz’s most important musicians and personalities, reflects on the musical and social genius of the late American icon. “The cat studied people the same way he studied notes,” he says.
August 6, 2025
Music & Arts Alum: Anthony Pirog
One of the finest guitarists of his generation reflects on his formative years as a student at Music & Arts. “That’s where my first real musical education began,” says Pirog, who plays with Fugazi’s rhythm section in the Messthetics.
March 7, 2025
Clarinet Masters: Essential Listening Guide for Students
Anat Cohen and Paquito D’Rivera, two of the world’s top jazz clarinetists, reflect on the recordings that transformed their musical journeys — and have the power to transform yours as well.
February 7, 2025
Jazz Saxophone Reed Guide: Pro Tips
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
Music & Artists: Béla Fleck
The world-renowned banjo master offers beginner tips as well as insight into his Gold Tone Mastertone “Bluegrass Heart” banjo.
December 23, 2024
Upright vs. Electric Bass: An Educator’s Guide
Two of the greatest bass players on the planet, John Patitucci and Linda May Han Oh, share stories and strategies to help students and teachers navigate the electric-acoustic divide. Plus: Gear advice and accessories picks.