by Peter Boonshaft | Jan 14, 2020 | Boonshaft's Blog
One of the fastest ways I know to improve and unify the tone quality of a clarinet section is to remember the wisdom found in a very, very, very old saying. Though the wording gives away the fact that it was from a distant time, it is nonetheless as applicable and...
by Peter Boonshaft | Jan 7, 2020 | Boonshaft's Blog
“When one door closes, another opens. Or you can open the closed door. That’s how doors work.” I read this anonymous quote the other day and laughed until my sides hurt. I thought it was hilarious, cute, and adorable. But there was something about it...
by Peter Boonshaft | Dec 17, 2019 | Boonshaft's Blog
I was walking down the sidewalk toward the main doors of a school the other day on my way to do a clinic with their bands. Just a few feet before the doors I noticed words written in what was once – long ago – wet cement. I was mesmerized. I stood there motionless,...
by Peter Boonshaft | Dec 10, 2019 | Boonshaft's Blog
I know the advice I am about to offer will garner great dissent. But I simply have to share it nonetheless. I am not trying to trample on tradition, but rather offer what I think is sound advice for young (actually any age!) clarinetists. By using a neck strap to hold...
by Peter Boonshaft | Dec 2, 2019 | Boonshaft's Blog
The older I get, the more I realize the power of, and absolute necessity for our words to be actionable. I can’t begin to count the number of times I have stood in front of an ensemble and instructed them to “listen.” I can hear me saying it now, “Let’s start at...