The Galleon Returns
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The Galleon Returns is a triumphant piece for beginning band. In the key of B-flat major, it only uses the (typically) first seven notes learned. Using scalar and arpeggio patterns, the piece has an optimistic sound, one depicting the awaited return of a magnificent galleon. Imagine a ship sailing into port with people gathering, waving and cheering. This piece is written to be a developmentally appropriate, full length musical work for young performers. Note: there is only one dynamic marked at the beginning. If the performing ensemble is ready for more, add some more dynamics in! The Galleon Returns offers a great opportunity to make music for beginning-level musicians.
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Island Breeze
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Island Beeze is a light and fun piece for beginning band. Using only basic combinations of quarter and eighth notes, this piece is quite achievable by young players. The melodies and harmonies give a very “island” sound and the percussion really sells the fun. Island Breeze utilizes cabasa, claves, maracas, and congas--all common instruments found in band rooms. If needed, substitue instruments (i.e. tom drums instead of congas). Every section gets to play melodic passages, including the low brass. There is also a short percussion break with clapping to change things up a bit. Note: there is only one dynamic written at the beginning. If the performing ensemble is ready for more, add some! This piece would be a great addition to brighten up a young band concert!
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30 Progressive Exercises for Band (or individual study)
(Beginner to Very Easy)
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This is the first iteration of a series of exercises that follows musicians as they progress through learning an instrument. The series generally follows the progression of what is used in most beginning band books.
These exercises can be used as - study etudes - ensemble or individual sight-reading - pass-offs exercises - even cut time practice (pull these back out when players are older and working on cut time. Would be a great "read-through" just to practice the concept) |
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Rhythm Masterclass - Set #1
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Rhythm Masterclass is a series of videos and counting exercises that follows the progression from the very beginning of learning to read and count music. Each video includes a four step process: count and clap with scrolling line, count and clap without line, sizzle/tizzle and do the fingerings with music on screen, PLAY with music on screen. The rhythms/music correlate with my Progressive Exercise Series (listed above). The idea is to progress gradually through rhythms, not adding too much too fast. I'm a huge believer in treating reading new rhythms like playing long tones...do it every day!!
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