The eLessons began as emails that I wrote for the members of our Sudbury Valley New Horizons Band*.  Some are specific to what we were doing at the time, but there is still useful information that relates to other situations.  I hope you find an "Ah, ha!" as you read!  --Diane Muffitt

*SVNHB is a band created for adults who either haven't played their instruments in years (decades!) and would like to get back into playing, or who never had the opportunity to play an instrument (what are those little black marks on the paper??) and would like to.  We are affiliated with New Horizons International Music Association and now are officially called, Sudbury Valley New Horizons Music, as we added a string program.

Posture and Position (and bifocals!)

Practice Practicing

Slow Practice... Poster (pdf)

On Practice and Faith

Practice - "You Stupid Fool!"

Warmups and Practice Routine (based on band instrument work)

Getting Started on a New Piece of Music (pdf)

Breathing 101 - getting started with stretching the intercostal muscles

Scales

More Scales

What is the Conductor DOING up There!? (pdf)

Making Your Entrance (pdf)

HELP! I'm Lost! Refinding your place in the music

Landmarks (like when driving, landmarks help you find where you are) (pdf)

Multiple Measure Rests (pdf)

Ensemble Playing

Learning about Gustav Holst Second Suite in F for Military Band

Setting up Your Music in a 3-ring Binder (pdf)

Etiquette when playing in standard community bands or orchestras

Books to Read