Standing in front of an ensemble, that sea of people each armed with a noise maker – I mean – with different instruments, playing positions, embouchures, and the like, can be daunting at times. So many things to fix, correct, reinforce, and praise all at once! But a few things can easily be seen by every single player in the room. It is a great starting point that will pay great rewards. We all look for their feet to be flat on the floor. And that their backs are away from their chairs. But one of my favorites is to check the elbows! Yes, elbows. When playing every single instrument in the modern wind band, each player’s elbows should be away from the body. Think about it. It’s true. Whether it’s to promote better instrument playing position, posture, hand position, or ease of arm, hand, and finger movements, no one’s elbows should be touching their torso. It is amazing how that one little thing can make such a difference for every student in an ensemble, and how easy it is to see from the podium.
Peter Loel Boonshaft, Director of Education
KHS America
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