I firmly believe a good rule of thumb for all brass players is that the angle of the lead pipe should follow the angle of the jaw. Though there are certainly exceptions,...

Do you have fun in rehearsals? Do your students have fun in rehearsals? Maybe not every minute of every rehearsal, but in general? I am convinced that if the first is true, the...

Many versions of this remarkable poem abound, each with slightly different sentiments. But this is my favorite. I ask that the next time you walk toward your school, and...

A great way to help clarinetists know how much of the mouthpiece to have in their mouth, and prevent the all too common problem of them using too little, is to have them play an...

At the start of your next rehearsal, write this anonymous quote on the board. I wouldn’t say a word. I would just stand and stare at it. “Every job is a self-portrait of the...

I am convinced that too many students quit instrumental music because they just don’t think they are very good at it. I think one way we can combat that is by playing technically...

It is the start of a new school year that is full of hopes and possibilities. As I think about it, I am reminded of a question my dear friend, the remarkable string pedagogue Bob...

Why do our students quit instrumental music?  Well, we have all read studies that outline a vast number of causes, and I am sure they all contribute to the large number of...

At the start of your next class or rehearsal, simply write the following old Chinese proverb on the board: “Every truly great accomplishment is at first impossible.”...