Can you cope with quarter tones?

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Our harmonic and melodic system is based on half steps and other systems are based on quarter tones. When we listen to the quarter step system, we are uncomfortable because of this unusual pitch relationship. Our instruments are not capable of playing quarter tones. So why am I posting information on how to perform the imposable? I think you might find the exercise interesting, or even mind altering. Our brass instruments are based on an overtone system which overlaps each fingering series, i.e. open fingering followed by 2, 1, 12, 23, 13, and 123. If you think of each series…

Trumpet Players Toys Store

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What trumpet play can resist the temptation to explore a business which features almost every new gimmick known to trumpet players? If you are one of the many trumpet geeks who spend more time searching for an aid to improve your playing, than you spend time practicing, you need to visit this site…….. Trumpet Players Toy Store Just a taste of what you “think” you need to become the next trumpet wonder of the world- • Thomann Flow-Ball • Thomann Breath Builder • Thomann Respiratory Trainer Inspiron • Thomann Breathing Bag • Gerd Dowids Mack for Trumpet • B.E.R.P. Embouchure…

Introducing…STRATOS- Embouchure Training Device

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A less known yet still controversial tool has been discussed to great lengths lately and the item is called STRATOS. If you search the leading trumpet bulletin boards for this new invention you will find a mix of pro and con reviews which would lead one to assume the product does not do what it claims. Because of several reasons (mostly the exorbitant cost) few that dislike the product have actually tried the attachment and believe it does not do what it claims and the supportive reports are submitted by those who have purchased and used the product. Any time…

Motivation- Where Does It Come From and How Can I Get Some? Part 2

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I have found it interesting working with many musical groups each year and as I observe each ensemble I have mentally noted the results of motivated directors as well as less motivated directors. Each ensemble seems to reflect the influences of their director. The most proficient and musical ensembles will always have an energetic and inspired director on the podium. The bands which exhibit respect and professionalism in their performance will invariably have directors who reflect these same characteristics. The only exceptions were the bands who had recently replaced less than adequate directors with improved models. It will take a…

Motivation- Where Does It Come From and How Can I Get Some?

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Motivate-verb 1. inspire, drive, stimulate, provoke, lead, move, cause, prompt, stir, trigger, set off, induce, arouse, prod, get going, instigate, impel, actuate, give incentive to, inspirit His hard work was motivated by a need to achieve. 2. stimulate, drive, inspire, stir, arouse, get going, galvanize, incentive How do you motivate people to work hard and efficiently? Most teachers are familiar with this term and are striving daily to prompt this action in their students. Everyone’s life is effected by the amount of motivation they posses. If you are on the low side of this characteristic, you are said to be…

Patching Old Horns For Pennies

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After many years of dedicated service, an instrument can start looking its age. The once bright and shiny surfaces begin to fade and the once shiny silver or polished brass areas where we hold the instrument begins to tarnish. One of your solutions for this situation could be to send it to a repair shop and have the silver redone or have the instrument stripped, polished and covered with a new coat of lacquer ($625). Because of the tight financial conditions of many households as well as the country, I have another solution. Fix it yourself for less than it…

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW IN ORDER TO IMPROVING YOUR TONE QUALITY (PART #2)

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I would like to thank all of you who have sent in comments about the first post on Tone Quality. It is comforting to know that I am not the only one interested in this important subject. Now I will continue with Part #2. In the previous post I discussed the difference in sound as well as the visualization of too loose, too tight and the more focused embouchure. Please note that I have intentionally omitted the issue of air in this discussion. When the issue of good tone is brought up, there is always someone wanting to shout “GOOD…

Protecting the Finish of Your Instrument

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In an earlier post I covered the essentials for keeping your brass instrument in good working order. This post will cover the importance of keeping the outer service of your instrument in good shape. Whether you have a silver or gold plated instrument or a lacquered or even bare brass surface, it is important to protect the outside from damage and wear. Bare brass instruments Instruments without plating or lacquer will eventually turn ugly. The reason that bare brass changes with time is the fact that the brass, when exposed to the air over a given period will tarnish and…

Finally- “The Perfect Performance Chair/Stool”!

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We all have suffered long enough when faced with the problem of a comfortable chair or stool when performing on stage or practicing. After spending “almost an entire lifetime” searching for the “PERFECT” solution to this dilemma, I felt compelled to single handedly add comfort and confidence to the world of seated performers. I spend at least eight to ten hours a day (every day) at my computer and when I finally broke down and purchase a new desk chair, I wanted the best I could afford. As it turned out, the purchase price was not at all what I…

Yet Another Toy For Our Trumpet Toy Box

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When will this ever end? There is no question as to the ability of this monumental trumpet player, so when I received an invitation to “Like” a site connected with Arturo Sandoval’s name, I jumped at the opportunity. If you are new to the ever widening trumpet world and have not yet heard of this gifted performer, check him out at this site- Arturo Sandoval For the rest of the trumpet world, we all shudder at the mere mention of his name. So when I heard that the maestro was endorsing a new and revolutionary accessory for trumpet players, I…