Favorite blog posts, December 2018

See the woodwind blogs I’m following, and suggest others!

The difference between “student” and “professional” instruments

Visit a music store or an instrument maker’s website and you will frequently see band instruments sorted into categories like “student,” “intermediate/step-up,” and “professional.” It’s important to understand that these distinctions are not bound to any specific criteria, and not policed by any governing body. The labels have a lot to do with target market, … Read more

FAQ: Ligatures

These are questions I am often asked about clarinet or saxophone ligatures, by blog readers or by my students. Is there a ligature that can accomplish _____ for me? If you are looking for something to hold the reed onto the mouthpiece, then yes. If you are hoping to achieve something loftier, then probably not. … Read more

Things beginning band directors say to clarinet sections

Tough love for teachers of beginning clarinetists.