Understanding Timpani Tuning (and Why It’s Different From Other Drums)
Understand how timpani pedal tuning works and why re-tuning mid-performance is a normal, expected part of playing the instrument rather than a sign something…
How-ToHow Orff Xylophones Are Used Differently From Concert or Marching Percussion
Understand how Orff xylophones are used differently from a concert or marching percussion instrument, and why classroom Orff equipment is priced and built the…
How-ToHow to Tune a Beginner Ukulele (and Why It Sounds “Wrong” at First)
Tune a beginner soprano ukulele to standard GCEA reentrant tuning, and understand why it sounds different from a linear low-to-high tuning like a guitar's.
How-ToShould You Rent or Buy Your Child’s First Bassoon?
Work out whether renting, borrowing through a school program, or buying (new or used) is the right way to get a child's first bassoon,…
How-ToWhy Won’t My Oboe Reed Play?
Prepare and care for an oboe reed so it plays reliably, and recognize when a reed — not the instrument — is the actual…
How-ToWhy Does My Saxophone Reed Squeak or Not Play?
Diagnose and fix a saxophone reed that squeaks, won't respond, or feels wrong, and recognize when the reed (not the instrument) is the problem.
How-ToWhy Does My French Horn Sound Stuffy or Out of Tune?
Diagnose why a French horn sounds stuffy, muffled, or out of tune, covering right-hand bell position and rotary valve maintenance, and recognize when to…
How-ToWhy Are My Tuba Valves Sticking or Slow?
Diagnose and fix sticking or slow tuba valves — covering both piston and rotary valve types — and recognize when to see a repair…
How-ToWhy Is My Trombone Slide Sticky or Sluggish?
Diagnose and fix a trombone slide that feels sticky or sluggish, and recognize when to see a repair technician instead of continuing to adjust…
How-ToWhy Won’t My Double Bass Stay in Tune?
Diagnose and fix a double bass that won't hold its tuning, and recognize when to see a luthier instead of continuing to adjust it…