6 Must Read
  • Features

    • Featured

      Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

      Chris Klich been playing woodwind instruments for 50 years, starting at age 10 on the clarinet. At age 11 he began playing alto sax, and as a music major in college, my mentor Jimmy Cheatham encouraged me to learn how to play flute, as well, of which he’s played for 40 years…

      • How to Clean A Trumpet
      • The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin
      • The Basics of Buying Woodwind Reeds for Beginning Band Parents
      • How to Play Clarinet Scales: D Minor
  • How To

    • How To

      clean a trumpet

      How to Clean A Trumpet

      A Guide to Playing Altissimo Saxophone

      24 Exercises at the Piano

      Gideon Waxman’s Ultimate Guide to Buying Cymbals

      How to Practice Like a Pro

      Uke Can Do It! New book teaches kids how to play the ukulele

      10 Tips to Increase Your Playing Speed

      Learn to play “What a Wonderful World” on Ukulele

      Dwayne Johnson Rock-ing the Ukulele

      Dan Hawkins

      Six Lessons for Playing Funk Bass – with Dan Hawkins

      Bass Guitar Lesson with Dan Hawkins – Using Scales To Create Killer Grooves

      prepare your voice

      How to Prepare Your Voice for a Live Performance

      Previous Next
  • Video
    • Newest Video

      • Video

        Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

        clean a trumpet

        How to Clean A Trumpet

        The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin

        d minor

        How to Play Clarinet Scales: D Minor

        Playing Well with Dr. Kertz — good posture equals effective breathing

        Product Spotlight: Yamaha YDS-150 Digital Saxophone

        Community Video: Sarah C. – My Safety

        Community Video: Jennifer B & the Groove – Down Dark Waters

        single by sunday

        Community Video: Single By Sunday – Debbie

        Community Video: TemperMental – All in My Head

        Pianist Yuko Mabuchi – From Classical Student to Jazz Virtuoso

        Community Video: Morrison – 9 Lives

        Previous Next
    • Product Spotlight

      • Product Spotlight

        Making Music Product Spotlight: The Mute Caddy with Jeff Stockham

        akg lyra

        Making Music Product Spotlight: AKG LYRA Ultra-HD Multimode USB Microphone

        Making Music Product Spotlight: Balu Musik horn mutes and mellophone

        Making Music Magazine Product Spotlight: Presonus Studio Live Series III Ecosystem

        Making Music Product Spotlight with Chuck Schiele: JBL EON ONE Compact

    • Community Videos

      Musical performances submitted by readers.

      • Community Videos

        Pick the Fall 2020 Community Video Contest winner!

        Community Video: Sarah C. – My Safety

        Community Video: Jennifer B & the Groove – Down Dark Waters

        single by sunday

        Community Video: Single By Sunday – Debbie

        Community Video: TemperMental – All in My Head

        Community Video: Morrison – 9 Lives

        Community Video: Orchestra Fuego – Fuego Colombiano

        Community Video: Short Shadows – The Jig is Up

        Community Video: Radiate – Home

        Community Video: The Copper Tones – Big Sugar, Big Change

        People’s Choice Winner Rich Carroll — A Country Boy with a Classic Voice

        Pick the Summer 2020 Community Video Contest Winner!

        Previous Next
    • Travel

      • Travel Video

        Mile of Music

        Wisconsin’s Fox Cities: More than a Mile of Music

        Alabama Gulf Coast Feeds a Musician’s Heart

        Inside Cash’s Boyhood Home

        crooked road

        The Crooked Road: A Journey Steeped in Music Traditions

        moab concert

        Moab Music Festival

        America Meets the Beatles! at Bethel Woods

        Discovering Music Destinations South of Nashville

        Cumbia: The Sound of Colombia

        Previous Next
    • How To Videos

      • How-To Videos

        clean a trumpet

        How to Clean A Trumpet

        Bass Guitar Lesson with Dan Hawkins – Using Scales To Create Killer Grooves

        acoustic guitar in stereo

        Recording Acoustic Guitar in Stereo for Beginners

        restringing your guitar

        A Guide to Restringing Your Guitar for Beginners

        f major

        How to Play Clarinet Scales: F Major

        g minor

        How to Play Clarinet Scales: G Minor

        The No. 1 Thing Songwriting Guitarists Don’t Think About

        Teaching Jazz and Musical Creativity to the Classical Piano Student – Part 2

        Teaching Jazz and Musical Creativity to the Classical Piano Student – Part 1

        c minor

        How to Play Clarinet Scales: C Minor

        The Problem All Pianists Need to Overcome (But Many Don’t Even Know About!)

        Piano Accompaniment Styles for 50 Great Songs

        Previous Next
    • Instrument Video

      • Instrument Video

        Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

        clean a trumpet

        How to Clean A Trumpet

        The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin

        d minor

        How to Play Clarinet Scales: D Minor

        Playing Well with Dr. Kertz — good posture equals effective breathing

        Product Spotlight: Yamaha YDS-150 Digital Saxophone

        Creating the “New” with Emmy-winning Composer Michael Whalen

        Frederic Chiu

        Frederic Chiu Creates Colors Using Classical Piano

        Casio Expands Digital Piano Lineup

        Distortion Packs a Punch! Amps Explained with Christopher Ames; Part 2

        Ken Perlman — Clawhammer Pioneer

        Daniel Ho

        Throwback Thursday: Daniel Ho — Hawaiian Musician Keeps the Passion in His Productions

        Previous Next
  • Health

    • Health

      Conn-Selmer Face Mask for Musicians

      The Conn-Selmer facemask, model CSFM1, is a deluxe adjustable one-size-fits all facemask designed with an opening to allow the musician to play his/her instrument while having a fully functional facemask when not playing an instrument. It is made from 92% poly, 8% spandex, a medium fabric weight of 240 GSM (grams per square metre), and […]

      • Playing Well with Dr. Kertz — good posture equals effective breathing
      • Songwriting: Three Essentials for a Song to Be Therapeutic
      • What Every Pianist Needs to Know About the Body
      • Coordinate Movement for Pianists: Anatomy, Technique, and Wellness Principles
  • Instruments
    • Woodwinds/Brass

      • Wind

        Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

        Chris Klich been playing woodwind instruments for 50 years, starting at age 10 on the clarinet. At age 11 he began playing alto sax, and as a music major in college, my mentor Jimmy Cheatham encouraged me to learn how to play flute, as well, of which he’s played for 40 years…

        • How to Clean A Trumpet
        • The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin
        • The Basics of Buying Woodwind Reeds for Beginning Band Parents
        • Jupiter Grenadilla Piccolo
    • Bass

      • Bass

        Dan Hawkins

        Six Lessons for Playing Funk Bass – with Dan Hawkins

        of the music. You need great timing, feel, pocket, and technique to play it well. Here are six video lessons that will get you grooving in no time….

        • Top Bass Guitars Loved by Rock & Roll Legends
        • Bass Guitar Lesson with Dan Hawkins – Using Scales To Create Killer Grooves
        • Yamaha Silent Bass SLB 300 Achieves New Lows in Acoustic Bass Modelling
        • Victor Wooten’s Music and Nature Camps
    • Guitar

      • Guitar

        Distortion Packs a Punch! Amps Explained with Christopher Ames; Part 2

        Making Music Mag visited with Christopher Ames at Guitar Center where he shares practical insights about distortion with the help of and Orange amplifier,  a Marshall amplifier and a Les Paul.

        • Throwback Thursday: Daniel Ho — Hawaiian Musician Keeps the Passion in His Productions
        • 10 Tips to Increase Your Playing Speed
        • From the MM Archives: Béla Fleck Brings Banjo from Front Porch to World Stage
        • Cordoba Flamed Mahogany Ukulele
    • Drums

      • Drums

        Gideon Waxman’s Ultimate Guide to Buying Cymbals

        Cymbals play an integral part of a drummer’s set up, and they are a significant investment. With a cymbal purchase, you will have to be completely confident that sound is right for you and your music. They cannot be altered or tuned in the way that drums can. So it’s imperative to invest in cymbals that will compliment the styles of music you play! In this guide I aim to provide as much information as I can about cymbals to help educate you on how to choose the perfect cymbals that are right for you, and what you need to consider when looking to invest in new cymbals.

        • Taiko Drumming: Healthy Exercise for Music Makers
        • 12 Ways to Improve Your Drumming
        • Exploring the History of Playing Timpani (Kettle Drums)
        • Money Beats with Rich Redmond
    • Strings

      • Strings

        mozart effect

        What’s in a Name: Is it a Violin or a Fiddle?

        Ask any violinist if there’s a difference between a violin and a fiddle, and they will say, “If I had a nickel every time somebody asked that!”

        • Innovative Music Competition for Piano and Violin Now Open
        • New book released on Writing Well for the Modern Harp
        • Famous people you may not know play(ed) the violin
        • Tips for Beginning Violinists
    • Keyboards

      • Keyboard

        workings of the piano

        The Workings of the Piano: For the Up-and-Coming Pianist

        If you want to get into playing the piano, it’s a good idea to get a basic understanding of how the instrument works. Before you even sit down at the piano bench, or sign up for lessons, educating yourself about the instrument gives you a base to start from, and may even help you decide if it’s the right choice of instrument for you.

        • Yamaha Announces New Portable Keyboards
        • Adjustable Padded Piano Bench
        • On-Stage LED Piano Lamp
        • Kawai MP11SE Digital Piano
    • Vocal

      • Voice

        prepare your voice

        How to Prepare Your Voice for a Live Performance

        By Stefanie August In my numerous years of working as a nightclub and theater vocalist, I always had to keep my voice strong and focused. We singers must be able to keep from sounding winded while singing, especially if we are dancing or playing an instrument. Below are some best practices for strengthening one’s voice […]

        • Vocal Tips: Understanding Head Voice, Falsetto, and Whistle Register
        • Making Music Presents: ‘One Voice, One Guitar, One Song’ Songwriting Contest
        • Breathing exercises for singing
        • Singers – How to Ease Stage Fright
    • Other Instruments

      • Other Instruments

        banjo history

        Where Did the Banjo Come From? Here’s a Timeline of Its History

        The banjo has evolved from its African roots, first as a minstrel instrument, and later as a jazz, bluegrass, and folk staple. At the American Banjo Museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, you can see more than 300 banjos – the largest public display in the world. The timeline below includes just a few.

        • Western Contemporary Music: A Musical Melting Pot
        • Dulcet Tones: The Hammered and Mountain Dulcimer
        • The Harp: How Does it Work?
        • How to Choose the Best Ocarina for You
  • Products
    • All Products

      • Products

        American Cut Jazz Sax Reeds

        The American Cut represents the next generation of Légère saxophone reeds. From the first note, the reed speaks with total ease while giving players just the right amount of tonal edge. It is effortlessly free-blowing, colorful, and loaded with personality. The American Cut’s distinct profile is what gives players a full, clear low register and […]

        Trumpet Bell Cover

        The Conn-Selmer CSBC5 bell cover will fit up to a 5” bell and is designed to help keep air particulates from escaping the instrument while not altering the pitch or the quality of sound. It is made from double layered stretch nylon and is machine washable. Only available in black. Bell cover creates a barrier […]

        Conn-Selmer Face Mask for Musicians

        The Conn-Selmer facemask, model CSFM1, is a deluxe adjustable one-size-fits all facemask designed with an opening to allow the musician to play his/her instrument while having a fully functional facemask when not playing an instrument. It is made from 92% poly, 8% spandex, a medium fabric weight of 240 GSM (grams per square metre), and […]

        Jupiter Grenadilla Piccolo

        The Jupiter JPC1100E piccolo is a grenadilla wood instrument with a grenadilla wood hand-cut headjoint and silver-plated nickel silver keywork. It is a serious player’s instrument that will satisfy the requirements of accomplished students and discriminating hobbyists. Features include: Grenadilla Wood Body and Headjoint provide a unique tonal presence that projects a beautifully full sound […]

        C.G. Conn 7D Step-Up Double French Horn

        The C.G. Conn 7D Geyer wrap French Horn is designed with the student in mind. The ergonomically designed valve cluster and adjustable thumb spatula accommodate a variety of hand sizes. The small bell throat creates a fast response and ease of playability for the younger musician. The 7D is an exciting new addition to the […]

    • Audio Recording

      • Audio Recording

        JBL speaker

        Win a Pair of JBL Reference Monitors

        Enter below to win a pair of JBL 104-BT Compact Desktop Reference Monitors with Bluetooth The giveaway is free to enter and runs until July 24. JBL 104-BT compact reference monitors with Bluetooth, the newest models in the 1 Series line, draw from seven decades of JBL Professional engineering. They’re perfect for recording musicians, producers, […]

        • The Green Scene—A Net-zero Recording Studio in Vermont
        • Recording Acoustic Guitar in Stereo for Beginners
        • Digital Collaboration: Technology’s Impact on How Artists Create Music
        • Tips for Choosing Headphones When Mixing Music
    • Live Sound

      • Live Sound

        Distortion Packs a Punch! Amps Explained with Christopher Ames; Part 2

        Making Music Mag visited with Christopher Ames at Guitar Center where he shares practical insights about distortion with the help of and Orange amplifier,  a Marshall amplifier and a Les Paul.

        • Radial Engineering Hotshot 48V Condenser Microphone Switcher
        • Zen and the Art of Acoustic Guitar Amplification, part 2
        • That Clean Sound! Amps Explained with Christopher Ames: Part 1
        • Zen and the Art of Acoustic Guitar Amplification, part 1
    • Books/Sheet Music

      • Books and Sheet Music

        The Woodwind Player’s Cookbook

        Creative Recipes for a Successful Performance This valuable collection of quick-to-read yet deeply insightful strategies is like finding expert trade secrets all placed in one convenient source. Contributors to the book were even eager to get a look at each other’s ideas! With outstanding records of performance, workshop clinics, recordings, research, composition, leadership and teaching, […]

        Oboemotions: What Every Oboe Player Needs to Know About the Body

        Oboemotions by Stephen Caplan is the definitive volume on using Body Mapping technique to help oboists and other double-reed players prevent injury and develop the physical freedom and sensitivity needed for technical mastery. Part method book, picture book, anatomy book, and practice handbook, the purpose of Oboemotions is to place the musical and technical study […]

        The Mazzanti Method, Piccolo: Daily Exercises for Piccolo

        Piccolo player Nicola Mazzanti is celebrated around the world as a foremost performer, teacher, and guest clinician. Mazzanti’s lectures and workshops are known for his daily exercises for piccolo players, and The Mazzanti Method brings together his comprehensive collection of studies. Part I: SOUND is a complete course in itself, providing a wide spectrum of […]

        Stylistic Etudes for Trombone

        Stylistic Etudes for Trombone teaches different styles of music that players are likely to encounter as working musicians: from classical, to jazz, to funk, to blues. Modern-day professional trombonists are often expected to switch from one style to another, and these 20 original etudes by noted performer and teacher Tom Brantley, a member of the […]

        Manuel Hilleke: Groove Trumpet

        Have you always dreamed of playing alongside a successful brass band? Experience the feeling with Groove Trumpet – Play Along with the Brass Band Marshall Cooper! Author Manuel Hilleke has compiled 11 groove-based original compositions and arrangements for professional section and solo playing. Based on simple song forms, you can try yourself in different styles […]

        Three’s a Crowd

        What goes on in the minds of chamber musicians as they express their feelings through music? In Three’s a Crowd, Gary Schocker offers five imaginary conversations for flute, oboe, and bassoon, using music rather than words. Sometimes harmonious, sometimes impatient, but like any carefully observed conversation, always complex and interesting. Performers and listeners alike will […]

  • Music Theory
    • Music Theory

      • Music Theory

        Dave Sanborn, Legendary Saxophonist, Presents the First Season of His New Show “Sanborn Sessions”

        Dave Sanborn, the veteran saxophonist, and six-time Grammy Award winner, has announced he will soon present the first episode of his new music show, Sanborn Sessions. The new series is hosted by Sanborn and features a diverse roster of accomplished artists from a variety of genres and generations. In its initial season, Sanborn welcomes Kandace Springs, […]

        • The No. 1 Thing Songwriting Guitarists Don’t Think About
        • The Importance of Chord Knowledge for Pianists
        • How Musicians Incorporate Artificial Intelligence into Their Songs
        • Transcription Errands – Chord Charts and the Nashville Number System
    • Clip N’ Save

      • Clip N’ Save

        best piano websites

        Going the Distance: Intro to Intervals

        To confidently identify intervals, you’ll first need to master your understanding whole-steps and half-steps—also known as tones and semi-tones. A half-step (semi-tone) is two different notes with the smallest possible distance between them—for example, B up to C, or E down to Eb. Think of two frets right next to each other on a guitar, or two keys (including the black keys) right next to each other on the piano. A whole-step (tone) is made up of two half-steps—for example, B up to C#, or E down to D…

        enharmonics

        Clip N’ Save: Understanding Enharmonics

        Enharmonics are notes that sound at the same pitch but have a different name, such as F# and Gb. Here are a few tips on understanding enharmonics.

        cadences

        Clip N’ Save: Types of Cadences

        Cadences are chord progressions that either break up or conclude a particular section or piece of music. Here are a few different types of cadences.

        Clip N’ Save: Tricky Time Signatures

        Clip N’ Save: Musical Terms Every Musician Should Know

        Previous Next
  • History

    • History

      piano

      Piano History: What are the different types of pianos?

      The piano was invented around 1700 in Italy by harpsichord maker Bartolomeo di Francesco Cristofori, who worked with the Florentine Court of the Grand Prince Ferdinando de’ Medici. Cristofori named his invention gravicèmbalo col piano e forte, which means “harpsichord with loud and soft.” It was later shortened to “fortepiano” and finally to just “piano.” […]

      • Piano History Timeline
      • Banjos, Banjos and More Banjos!
      • The Most Famous Banjo Tune Ever — “Dueling Banjos”
      • The ‘Ukulele: A History
  • Sweet Relief Raises More Than $9,000 for Musicians  
  • Last Call to Register for the 2021 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards
  • Hit Like A Girl Announces Marching Percussion Contest
  • Gator Releases Instrument Face Masks, Bell Covers for School Band and Music Programs
  • Music Publisher Releases Inaugural Jazz Ensemble Music for Educators and Students
  • John Lennon Songwriting Contest Launches “Power to the People” With Weekly Giveaways
  • Philadephia Percussionist Brings Fresh Perspective to Revolutionary-era Fife-and-Drum Tune
  • Musician Treatment Foundation Hosts Livestream Benefit Concert to Support Musicians in Need

Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

clean a trumpet

How to Clean A Trumpet

The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin

reeds

The Basics of Buying Woodwind Reeds for Beginning Band Parents

  1. Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments
  2. How to Clean A Trumpet
  3. The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin
  4. The Basics of Buying Woodwind Reeds for Beginning Band Parents
  • Popular Posts
  • Community Videos
  • Books / Sheet Music
  • Teacher Resources
  • Travel

Popular Posts

Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

Chris Klich been playing woodwind instruments for 50 years, starting at age 10 on the clarinet. At age 11 he began playing alto sax, and as a music major in college, my mentor Jimmy Cheatham encouraged me to learn how to play flute, as well, of which he’s played for 40 years…

The Woodwind Player’s Cookbook

Creative Recipes for a Successful Performance This valuable collection of quick-to-read yet deeply insightful strategies is like finding expert trade secrets all placed in one convenient source. Contributors to the book were even eager to get a look at each other’s ideas! With outstanding records of performance, workshop clinics, recordings, research, composition, leadership and teaching, […]

American Cut Jazz Sax Reeds

The American Cut represents the next generation of Légère saxophone reeds. From the first note, the reed speaks with total ease while giving players just the right amount of tonal edge. It is effortlessly free-blowing, colorful, and loaded with personality. The American Cut’s distinct profile is what gives players a full, clear low register and […]

Oboemotions: What Every Oboe Player Needs to Know About the Body

Trumpet Bell Cover

Community Videos

Pick the Fall 2020 Community Video Contest winner!

We’ve chosen our favorites, now it’s your turn. Pick your favorite artist or group from our Fall 2020 Community Video Contest winners and decide who will get a special feature story on Making Music! Vote now through October 16. Scroll to the bottom of this post for the voting link. The artists and videos are: […]

Community Video: Sarah C. – My Safety

International recording artist, Sarah C is known for her trademark powerful and soulful voice and dynamic stage presence. As a respected vocalist she has appeared as a guest judge on Channel 7’s “All Together Now.” She has also performed backing vocals on shows such as “Ex Factor” and for some of the biggest names in […]

Community Video: Jennifer B & the Groove – Down Dark Waters

Jennifer B & the Groove are a four-piece, high-energy Austin, Texas band who play a wide variety of music, including blues, roots-rock and Americana music. With a fresh unique approach to some great classic covers, the band also incorporates new, original music written by Jennifer, featuring her powerful, soulful, gut-wrenching voice and heart-tugging lyrics. The […]

Community Video: Single By Sunday – Debbie

Community Video: TemperMental – All in My Head

Books / Sheet Music

The Woodwind Player’s Cookbook

Creative Recipes for a Successful Performance This valuable collection of quick-to-read yet deeply insightful strategies is like finding expert trade secrets all placed in one convenient source. Contributors to the book were even eager to get a look at each other’s ideas! With outstanding records of performance, workshop clinics, recordings, research, composition, leadership and teaching, […]

Oboemotions: What Every Oboe Player Needs to Know About the Body

Oboemotions by Stephen Caplan is the definitive volume on using Body Mapping technique to help oboists and other double-reed players prevent injury and develop the physical freedom and sensitivity needed for technical mastery. Part method book, picture book, anatomy book, and practice handbook, the purpose of Oboemotions is to place the musical and technical study […]

The Mazzanti Method, Piccolo: Daily Exercises for Piccolo

Piccolo player Nicola Mazzanti is celebrated around the world as a foremost performer, teacher, and guest clinician. Mazzanti’s lectures and workshops are known for his daily exercises for piccolo players, and The Mazzanti Method brings together his comprehensive collection of studies. Part I: SOUND is a complete course in itself, providing a wide spectrum of […]

Stylistic Etudes for Trombone

Stylistic Etudes for Trombone teaches different styles of music that players are likely to encounter as working musicians: from classical, to jazz, to funk, to blues. Modern-day professional trombonists are often expected to switch from one style to another, and these 20 original etudes by noted performer and teacher Tom Brantley, a member of the […]

Manuel Hilleke: Groove Trumpet

Have you always dreamed of playing alongside a successful brass band? Experience the feeling with Groove Trumpet – Play Along with the Brass Band Marshall Cooper! Author Manuel Hilleke has compiled 11 groove-based original compositions and arrangements for professional section and solo playing. Based on simple song forms, you can try yourself in different styles […]

Three’s a Crowd

What goes on in the minds of chamber musicians as they express their feelings through music? In Three’s a Crowd, Gary Schocker offers five imaginary conversations for flute, oboe, and bassoon, using music rather than words. Sometimes harmonious, sometimes impatient, but like any carefully observed conversation, always complex and interesting. Performers and listeners alike will […]

64 Musical Studies for All Saxophones

64 Musical Studies for Saxophone, edited by Rami El-Farrah, is a compendium of Baroque, Classical, and Romantic-era masterpieces arranged for saxophone. The works are written to serve as a student primer to the Ferling Studies or other similar studies. Each lyrical study has been crafted to create a balance of musicality and pedagogy that allows […]

Three Duets for Two Flutes

Appreciating the art and beauty of W. F. Bach’s six flute duets, editors Leone Buyse and David Berman have collaborated on the addition of three viola duets to the flutist’s repertoire in their new book, Three Duets (for Two Flutes). The editors describe the viola duets as “another example of Friedemann’s gift for creating rich […]

Jazz Standards – 22 Swingin’ and Fun Piano Arrangements

This collection of jazz classics arranged by Mike Springer contains entertaining solo piano arrangements. The carefully crafted arrangements sound impressive, with lively rhythms and satisfying harmonies, while remaining accessible to pianists at the intermediate to late intermediate level. The clearly notated arrangements include lyrics, level-appropriate chord symbols, helpful pedaling marks, and suggested fingerings. Titles: All […]

Whole Notes: A Piano Masterclass

Concerned with how, as well as what, to play, Whole Notes A Piano Masterclass by Armen Donelian is both a piano method book and, more importantly, a guidebook to accompany the reader’s personal journey into music. Posture, practicing, mental and physical health, using weight and force, economy of movement, and expression are some of the […]

Chopin Piano Music

Chopin Piano Music includes 52 newly engraved intermediate to advanced piano pieces by Frederic Chopin (edited by Richard Walters) printed on eye-pleasing cream-colored paper. Includes: 12 Preludes, 16 Mazurkas, 9 Nocturnes, 5 Polonaises, 9 Waltzes, and the Fantaisie-Impromptu. 228 pages. CONTENTS   Preludes: A minor, Op. 28, No. 2 E minor, Op. 28, No. 4 […]

Adult All-in-One Course, Book 1

Adult All in One Course Book 1 Alfreds Basic Adult Piano Course by Willard A. Palmer, Morton Manus, and Amanda Vick Lethco is designed for use with a piano instructor for the beginning student looking for a truly complete piano course. It is a greatly expanded version of Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course that will […]

Blues Piano: The Complete Guide

Ever wanted to play the blues, but weren’t sure where to start? Blues Piano The complete guide with audio by Mark Harrison will teach you the basic skills you need. From comping to soloing, you’ll learn the theory, the tools, and even the tricks that the pros use. And, you get seven complete tunes to […]

What Every Pianist Needs to Know About the Body

Techniques on how to gain greater fluidity of movement while playing to improve the quality of the experience are offered in this manual for serious piano players. What Every Pianist Needs to Know About the Body by Thomas Carson Mark encourages musicians to develop a broader understanding of the involvement of the entire body in […]

Berklee Jazz Standards for Solo Piano

Berklee Jazz Standards for Solo Piano includes 12 arrangements by various arrangers for solo jazz piano of standard jazz tunes. These arrangements are fun to play, musically suitable for performance, and support the Berklee piano curriculum and other activities (e.g., auditions). They are organized by performance level, with examples from Levels 1 through 4, so […]

The Circle of Fifths for Piano

Learn and Apply Music Theory for Piano & Keyboard The Circle of Fifths is the ancient “Rosetta Stone” of music theory, that not only tells you which notes are in any key, but also contains the secret of how every scale is built and how scales relates to each other. The Circle of Fifths for […]

Beautiful Art Songs for Solo Piano

This 32-page book by pianist, composer, and educator Lee Evans consists of beautiful art songs (lieder) by famous classical composers, music set to poetry for piano and voice, but here presented in piano solo arrangements to be played purely instrumentally. Composers whose songs are featured in this first of three volumes in this projected three-book […]

Coordinate Movement for Pianists: Anatomy, Technique, and Wellness Principles

What movements, then, produce the most desirable sounds at the piano? Drawing from experience in the fields of piano instruction, medicine, and Body Mapping, author Lisa Marsh presents a detailed discussion — complete with anatomical drawings and music examples — about the types of movement that contribute to a healthy, fluid, and versatile piano technique. […]

Queen Songbook: Piano Play-Along

Play eight of your favorite Queen songs with sound-alike backing tracks in the Queen Songbook Piano Play Along. Each volume in this series comes with orchestrated arrangements. The music in this book matches these recorded orchestrations. There are two tracks for each — a full performance for listening, plus a separate backing track which lets […]

The Complete Book of Scales, Chords, Arpeggios & Cadences

Includes All the Major, Minor (Natural, Harmonic, Melodic) & Chromatic Scales — Plus Additional Instructions on Music Fundamentals Complete Book of Scales Chords Arpeggios and Cadences by Willard A. Palmer, Morton Manus, and Amanda Vick Lethco offers scale, chord, arpeggio, and cadence studies in all major and minor keys presented in a convenient two-page format. […]

Previous Next

Teacher Resources

workings of the piano

The Workings of the Piano: For the Up-and-Coming Pianist

If you want to get into playing the piano, it’s a good idea to get a basic understanding of how the instrument works. Before you even sit down at the piano bench, or sign up for lessons, educating yourself about the instrument gives you a base to start from, and may even help you decide if it’s the right choice of instrument for you.

Gator Releases Instrument Face Masks, Bell Covers for School Band and Music Programs

In its commitment to help school band and music programs continue while adhering to health and safety standards, Gator is now offering instrument and face cover solutions that follow recommendations from the NFHS (National Federation of State High Schools) study. Gator’s product designs incorporated the study findings and insights. Gator’s new double-layered wind instrument face […]

Music Publisher Releases Inaugural Jazz Ensemble Music for Educators and Students

Excelcia Music Publishing recently launched its first Jazz Ensemble music release with 15 new and inspiring tunes from well-known composers as well as talented newcomers. Recognizing these unusual times, the release comes with the publisher’s state-of-the art digital catalog which provides unprecedented assistance to educators to listen, plan and select new jazz ensemble music, including features […]

How to Practice Like a Pro

Uke Can Do It! New book teaches kids how to play the ukulele

Hal Leonard CEO Larry Morton Is Inspired by the Future

Travel

Take a Virtual Tour of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum

Due to the global Covid-19 pandemic, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum has been closed to the public for over a month.  In an effort to continue reaching bluegrass fans all over the world, the Hall of Fame has produced a virtual tour led by Executive Director Chris Joslin. Within the Hall of […]

NAMM Show 2020

The NAMM Show 2020 Adventures

The NAMM Show 2020 was held January 16-19, 2020 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA. Here are some photos from our time at the show.

It’s Almost Time for The NAMM Show 2020…

It’s January, which means that it’s time to prepare for the annual NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show—the world’s most comprehensive gathering of musical instruments, gear, and experts. The NAMM Show, held each January in Southern California, unites over 115,000 registrants from 130 countries. This is a conference where almost every music instrument or […]

Make Music Winter Returns Nationwide on December 21

Free Participatory Musical Parades Showcasing a Wide Variety of Genres and Styles to Kick Off Winter in Over 30 U.S. Cities Make Music Winter, a free, outdoor music-making celebration on the winter solstice, returns this year on Saturday, Dec. 21, with participatory musical parades and performances and events in more than 30 U.S. cities. The […]

earth celebration

Earth Celebration: 3 Days of Drumming

Earth Celebration is a huge drum festival hosted by the globetrotting drum group Kodo. This year’s festival will be held August 16-18 on Sado Island.

Books and Sheet Music

The Woodwind Player’s Cookbook

October 19, 2020

Creative Recipes for a Successful Performance This valuable collection of quick-to-read yet deeply insightful strategies is like finding expert trade secrets all placed in one convenient source. Contributors to the book were even eager to get a look at each other’s ideas! With outstanding records of performance, workshop clinics, recordings, research, composition, leadership and teaching, […]

  • Oboemotions: What Every Oboe Player Needs to Know About the Body
  • The Mazzanti Method, Piccolo: Daily Exercises for Piccolo
  • Stylistic Etudes for Trombone
  • Manuel Hilleke: Groove Trumpet
  • Three’s a Crowd

How To

clean a trumpet

How to Clean A Trumpet

October 15, 2020

This video outlines the best practices for cleaning a trumpet, though the steps for the bathing process can be applied to most brass instruments.

  • A Guide to Playing Altissimo Saxophone
  • 24 Exercises at the Piano
  • Gideon Waxman’s Ultimate Guide to Buying Cymbals
  • How to Practice Like a Pro
  • Uke Can Do It! New book teaches kids how to play the ukulele

Gear

American Cut Jazz Sax Reeds

October 17, 2020

The American Cut represents the next generation of Légère saxophone reeds. From the first note, the reed speaks with total ease while giving players just the right amount of tonal edge. It is effortlessly free-blowing, colorful, and loaded with personality. The American Cut’s distinct profile is what gives players a full, clear low register and […]

Trumpet Bell Cover

October 15, 2020

The Conn-Selmer CSBC5 bell cover will fit up to a 5” bell and is designed to help keep air particulates from escaping the instrument while not altering the pitch or the quality of sound. It is made from double layered stretch nylon and is machine washable. Only available in black. Bell cover creates a barrier […]

Conn-Selmer Face Mask for Musicians

October 13, 2020

The Conn-Selmer facemask, model CSFM1, is a deluxe adjustable one-size-fits all facemask designed with an opening to allow the musician to play his/her instrument while having a fully functional facemask when not playing an instrument. It is made from 92% poly, 8% spandex, a medium fabric weight of 240 GSM (grams per square metre), and […]

Instruments

  • banjo
  • Bass
  • Drums
  • Guitar
  • Keyboards
  • Strings
  • Ukulele
  • Vocal
  • Woodwinds/Brass

Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

October 19, 2020

Chris Klich been playing woodwind instruments for 50 years, starting at age 10 on the clarinet. At age 11 he began playing alto sax, and as a music major in college, my mentor Jimmy Cheatham encouraged me to learn how to play flute, as well, of which he’s played for 40 years…

  • How to Clean A Trumpet
  • The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin
  • The Basics of Buying Woodwind Reeds for Beginning Band Parents
  • Jupiter Grenadilla Piccolo
  • A Guide to Playing Altissimo Saxophone

Advertising

brass month

Recent Videos

Chris Klich’s Journey of Wind Instruments

clean a trumpet

How to Clean A Trumpet

The Ethics of Sax — a Chat with Jeff Coffin

d minor

How to Play Clarinet Scales: D Minor

Playing Well with Dr. Kertz — good posture equals effective breathing

Previous Next

Browse by Instrument

Guitar
Keyboards
Strings
Percussion
Vocal
Winds

RESOURCES

About Us
Teacher Resources
Associations
Music Education and Reference
Music Therapy and Health
Forums

Community

Join
Contact
Contributor Guidelines
Facebook
YouTube
Twitter
Copyright © 2020 by Making Music Magazine.