Describes what woodwind instruments are, the various types, and what makes each one unique.

Woodwind Basics: Core concepts for playing and teaching flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and saxophone is a fresh, no-nonsense approach to woodwind technique. It outlines the principles common to playing all of the woodwind instruments, and explains their application to each one.The ideas in this book are critical for woodwind players at all levels, and have been battle-tested in university woodwind methods courses, private studios, and school band halls. Fundamental questions answered with newfound clarity include:- What should I listen for in good woodwind playing?- Why is breath support so important, and how do I do and teach it?- What is voicing? How does it relate to ideas like air speed, air temperature, and vowel shapes?- What things does an embouchure need to accomplish?- How can I (or my students) play better in tune?- What role does the tongue really play in articulation?- Which alternate fingering should I choose in a given situation?- How do I select the best reeds, mouthpieces, and instruments?- How should a beginner choose which instrument is the best fit?Woodwind Basics by Bret Pimentel is the new go-to reference for woodwind players and teachers.

(Meredith Music Resource). 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, the 57 authors provide their favorite "recipes" that range from overviews of successful programs to specific topics that will inspire all levels and types of ensembles and performers. Sample "recipes" include: Developing Facility on the Bass Clarinet (J. Lawrie Bloom); Breathing Demystified (Leone Buyse); Recipe for Preventing Play-Related Health Problems (William J. Dawson, M.D.); How Should I Test a Saxophone Mouthpiece? (Eugene Rousseau); and many more.

Intended for students and teachers alike, this book addresses the basics of playing wind instruments, and acts as a reference for a variety of different problems and issues. Includes music examples and fingering charts.

"Your guide to the orchestra through sounds and stories." front cover.

All kinds of modern music from minimalism to electronic jazz are described and discographies of each are provided.