Category Archives: Posts

handy dandy information about woodwinds

Winds and Weather

Heat-makes all aerophones (wind instruments) sharp. Opposite for piano and string instruments and metal percussion.
Excessive heat and/or open windows in hot weather will have negative affect.
Cold-makes all aerophones flat (opposite for piano and string instruments and metal percussion)
Excessive air conditioning and/or open windows in cold weather will have a negative affect.

Brass Mutes and Temperature

Straight and Harmon brass mutes typically make an instrument go sharp to very sharp.
Cup mute will make the instrument go flat.
Playing with a straight/harmon mute when the temperature is high makes brass playing very difficult.

Get a Shot

This is the beginning of flu season here in the Northeast, and a flu shot may help avoid contracting the illness and prolong your health for playing your gigs.

We are promoting shot glasses for reed dipping — but not for sharing with others!

NO, the oboe player does not keep a bottle of vodka in with their myriad of reed making and maintenance paraphernalia though playing the oboe could almost “drive ‘ya to drinkin’ . . .”

We have a nice supply of vintage shot glasses for the reed player who prefers glass over plastic.

Try a shot of espresso to keep your fingers nimble and your head ready for the agitato, vivace and perhaps the espressivo passages!

Is a Tune Timeless?

How do you tell if a tune is timeless?

That is mostly determined by the amount of times the music has been performed OR purchased. Check out our pre-owned sheet music. You will find many music standards.
You may also discover a masterpiece that has been overlooked throughout history.

Here is your chance to make a difference in history and choose the lesser known piece.
Add one of the “unknowns” to your next concert repertoire.