Articles

Bringing in a Brass Chamber Ensemble
Whether you play in a brass trio, quartet, quintet or sextet, an important technique for a group leader to master is the cue that brings the ensemble in at the beginning of a performance.  This multimedia article teaches a method that the Empire Brass has used for over three decades and has taught to hundreds of other brass ensembles.
Because of the online video demonstrations throughout this article, it is best view using a high speed connection.  The video clips are in Flash format.  If your Flash plug-in is outdated or not installed yet, you may be prompted to download the most recent version.  Due to Microsoft’s update of Internet Explorer in April 2006, you may have to click on the video once to “activate” it and then click on it again to begin playback.

Diversity in Phrasing
The elegant and imaginative shaping of a musical phrase requires the use of many techniques.  This article describes these techniques and how they may be applied to create a more rounded performance.  An even broader understanding of when to apply the techniques described here can be gained by first reading its companion essay, Intelligent Design.

Gate Checking Your Large Musical Instrument (or Case)
If your instrument or the case you’re using (i.e., double, triple or quad-case) is too large to be considered a carry-on item, you have two choices when you fly in the United States: check your instrument as baggage or buy a seat for it.  If you fly often, purchasing an extra seat on every flight may not be practical.  So how do you minimize the risk to your instrument when you have to check it?  Try gate-checking it.

Intelligent Design
Playing what is written on the page is good.  It is also the least that is expected.  Capitalizing on the more hidden expressions in music requires that a performer first be able to find them.  The search for such moments often requires more than instinct but open-mindedness and objectivity as well.  This article examines the things to look for when mining a of piece music for hidden expressive opportunities.

Musical Chairs
The seating configuration of any wind ensemble does not have to be fixed.  In fact, moving instruments around for certain pieces may make more sense both practically and musically than one may think. Presented here is a perspective on seating configuration for bands and wind ensembles as well as a discussion of its many benefits.

Short Stories

How to be a Jazz Critic
Bill Anschell tells gives you all the catch phrases you need to know to become a first rate jazz critic.

Jazz Jam Sessions: A First-Timer’s Guide
Experience the comedic musing of writer/pianist, Bill Anschell, as you learn the proper etiquette and hidden dynamics of a jazz jam session.
This short story contains adult themes and language that some readers may find objectionable or offensive.  Readers’ discretion is advised.

There’s a Sucker Born Every Minute
This short story by Bill Anschell takes an inside look at the death-defying life of a staff musician aboard the S.S. Norway.
This short story contains adult themes and language that some readers may find objectionable or offensive.  Readers’ discretion is advised.

Searching for Glory at the Cookin’ Cadenza
Here’s a humorous tale about struggle of trying to be a “real” musician in the midst of mediocrity.
This short story contains adult themes and language that some readers may find objectionable or offensive.  Readers’ discretion is advised.

Careers in Jazz
A clear and concise dissertation on the structure of the jazz world and the interactions of its constituents.

Word of the Week

C.B.A. (Eng.) = This acronym stands for collective bargaining agreement, which is an agreement drafted between a local Musicians’ Union office and an organization seeking to employ union musicians.  The agreement spells out the minimum wages and conditions that the musicians may work under for the employer.

Featuring the voices of Steve Campbell (Minnesota Orchestra, tuba) and Michelle Montone Campbell (Florida West Coast Symphony Orchestra, bass clarinet)

Joke of the Fortnight

A violist was hiking through Switzerland...

...when he came upon a shepherd tending his flock of sheep.
“If I can guess how many sheep you have in your flock,” asks the violist, “will you give me one?”
“All right,” responds the shepherd.  “How many sheep are there in my flock?”
“One hundred fifty-three,” responds the violist.
“You’re right!” responds the stunned shepherd as the violist picks out one animal.  “How did you know that?”
“Lucky guess,” responds the violist.
“If I can guess your profession, will you give me my sheep back?” asks the shepherd.
“Okay,” responds the violist.
“You’re a violist,” says the shepherd.
“How did you know?” asks the violist.
“Give me my dog back and I’ll tell you.”

If you like this Joke of the Fortnight, tell a friend, bookmark this page and be sure to come back in two weeks.

Tip of the Month

Are you the musician who knows that recording yourself is extremely helpful, but…

...you still don’t do it as often as you should?  Overcoming the hassle factor of dragging around a recording device can seem daunting, so, until you do, consider these options.

If you normal carry around a laptop, instead of leaving it in your locker when you practice bring it with you.  There are free programs that come pre-installed with many operating systems (e.g., Windows› Sound Recorder) or are available on the internet that can do a modest job of capturing your sound.  Many notebook computers even come with built-in microphones.  Remember, you’re not trying to record a CD; you’re simply setting up a means by which you can reexamine what you think you are doing.

An even more convenient option is to use your cell phone.  I’ve done this will much success and no hassle.  Most cell phones have a memo feature by which you can record 10, 20 or even 60 seconds of sound.  The tone quality is not very flattering; however, it is great for checking your rhythm and, to a lesser extent, your intonation.  If you are practicing a passage and want to be certain your rhythm and tempo is unwavering, record a memo of yourself.  If you have a phone where you have to hold down a button during the recording process an elastic band and a peanut M&M can easily replace a finger—and the M&M makes for a tasty treat when you’re done!

The most convenient option I've found is in the new wave of digital audio players (a.k.a. MP3 players).  You can now buy an MP3 player the size of a tube of chapstick for under $20USD which are equipped with built-in microphones and can record hours of sound. Granted, they are design for recording voice lectures and the quality of the sound is not very good; but, if you want to check your rhythm or intonation on a given passage they do the job wonderfully! Add to that the fact that you can easily carry around a commercial recording of the music you’re working on and you have a practical and convenient solution to this issue.

Once you get used to the feeling of progress and accomplishment that recording your practice sessions generates, you’ll more easily overcome the hassle factor of using more appropriate recording equipment.