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.
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.
November 18, 2024
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.
November 14, 2024
Leader of the Revive Big Band and collaborator to rap royalty, the trumpeter and composer-arranger offers expert guidance on making hip-hop work for a large ensemble.
November 6, 2024
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.
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
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.
October 25, 2024
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.
October 11, 2024
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.
September 26, 2024
One of contemporary blues’ premier horn players on transcribing guitarists, controlling his sound with effects pedals, and using open space like B.B. King.
