Bandworld Magazine

Introduction Developing a great tone is an important component in learning to play the saxophone. In addition to a properly formed embouchure, proper breathing technique and optimal tongue position, playing with an open, flexible throat and the ability to play overtones are skills that are essential in producing an excellent saxophone sound. By becoming...

by Anthony O’Toole Discs: Firsts Recording: University of Texas at El Paso Wind Symphony Conducting tor: Bradley J Genevro Ensemble: Barry Hearn, Rich Harris, Pete Madsen, Steve Wilson: Trombones Publisher: MARK Masters 55871- MCD Purchase

Alex Lithgow/ T.M. Taylor Disc: Across the Pond Recording: Various Bands of the United States Military Publisher :Altissimo Recordings Alto 4012 (2CDs) Purchase The marches in this collection are taken from the legendary...

Introduction Developing proper breathing technique is one of the most important aspects in learning to play any wind instrument. By becoming aware of proper breathing techniques and incorporating these techniques into everyday practice, saxophonists should be able to greatly improve all aspects of their playing. Even though proper breath...

Candide, the comic operetta based on Voltaire’s work, unfortunately, had a short life on Broadway in 1956.  However, its lively overture had its premiere by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of the composer in 1957 and has since become a favorite in the concert repertoire of both orchestras and bands.  “The work is rhythmic,...

Musical Definitions Accidental - a wrong noteAttaca – fire at will!Augmented Fifth – a 36 oz. bottleConductor – a musician adept at following many people at the same timeCountertenor – a singing waiterCrescendo - reminder you’ve been playing too loudlyExpressivo - close eyes & play with wide vibratoTempo - where the headache beginsTransposition...

Tips for guest conducting honor bands The band will not be as good as described.Insist on a recording of last year’s band.Ask for programs from the last 3-4 years.Contact the conductor of last year’s band.Choosing the right music is the #1 task.Request a designated percussion helper.Pull music the band can’t read w/o...

Things I know about the profession Professionalism and integrity matter in all things.If one wants to be successful, one must pay the price.Another person’s success is not my failure.The pursuit of knowledge is the most important thing on earth.Everyone doesn’t work or put in the time that they should to meet students’...

Things I know about rehearsal All children can learn regardless of background.Knowing one’s craft is important.Rehearsal time is important any time of the year.Corrected yesterday doesn’t mean corrected today.The better the intonation, the better the clarity & blend.Organize rehearsals as Synthesis-Analysis-Synthesis.If the band sounds bad, it is...

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 7, 2021) — The University of Kentucky welcomes Shayna Stahl as director of Athletic Bands and assistant director of Bands in the School of Music. Stahl will become the first woman to serve as the director of the Wildcat Marching Band. Stahl will also serve as director of the UK Pep Bands and as the conductor of the UK Concert Band.