Earlier, I posted an article describing a fantastic brass quartet which I introduced as “Possibly The Best Quartet- Period”. Photo taken by Sasha Arutyunova After posting my material, I was lucky enough to get in contact with this ensemble and they agreed to answer a few questions I had about…
These posts are written by: Bruce Chidester
Band Directors! Learn to Tune Your #%@&*%$# Bands!
“I have had it with out-of-tune bands”! The more I listen to concert bands, the more I get upset and wonder where we have gone wrong in instrumental music. As my readers have learned, I am a very patient yet sometimes out spoken person. I try to understand other opinions…
A Great Lesson On How To Half Valve!
The Perfect Practice, Rehearsal, Recording Studio- Part 2
Now that we have the basic room and have found it to be sound (pun intended), we will need to fill it with equipment. If you were expecting a long list of the ultimate recording equipment in both hardware/software, let me remind you that I am a retired professor of…
The Perfect Practice, Rehearsal, Recording Studio- Part 1
If you hear of one, please let me know. Until then, let me show you the best I have ever designed and built. To construct the best of all worlds in these areas is imposable for each requires its own elements. The best recording studio may not have the correct…
Finally! An MRI of a player!
To read more about this breakthrough, check out Here is what happens inside your body when you play a brass instrument.
Preparing for a Show Chapter 5 (concentration issues)
Some shows are physically taxing. Some have endurance problems and some, as in this case, have concentration issues. Due to the constant mute changes, tempo changes and vocal cues, I have found this show to be challenging for my ability to concentrate. Through the years I have discovered helpful tricks…
Preparing for a Show Chapter 4 (preparing your work area)
I must admit, I am much more deliberate in my preparations for a show than the average musician. The reason for this is two-fold; 1. I detest making mistakes 2. I am not the quickest learner in the section Because of these shortcomings, I tend to do much more preparation…
Preparing for a Show Chapter 3 (marking your music)
The Importance of Marking Your Music. Now that you understand the music and checked for any calls for mutes, the next step is to start rehearsals. Most of the time the director is reasonable and understanding during the first couple scheduled rehearsals and everyone learns their responsibilities for the show.…
Preparing for a Show Chapter 2 (setting up your practice routine)
Because of the short notice to play this show, my usual routine had to be changed. Usually I will check over the music to find what challenges it might have such as range, endurance, solos, unusual keys, etc. In this case it was and is a straight forward vocal/skit/comedy show…