All material below is Copyright © 1991-2002 by Andrew B. Spang. It may not be reproduced for profit without the author's express written consent. All Rights Reserved.
Last updated: August 13, 2002.
Getting the Best Out of Your Private Teacher
Based on a handout by Elaine Douvas, Principal Oboe, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra (1977-present); Former Principal Oboe, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (1973-1977); Faculty, The Julliard School. This is required reading for all my students as soon as they begin lessons with me. I would recommend that anyone who studies music take a look at these suggestions.
Oiling Rotary Valves
Simply the best method for proper oiling of rotary valves. Includes recommended oils.
Oiling Piston Valves
Simply the best method for proper oiling of piston valves.
Stringing Rotorary Valves
A helpful article on the annoying task of stringing rotorary valves (with string linkage, like on horns or King trombones). Includes pictures and diagrams.
Slurring on Trombone
Proper slurring on the trombone requires considerations that no other instrument has.
Cleaning Trombone Hand Slides
Playing on the trombone requires a slide that is clean, quick and easy to move. Read how to keep yours that way (or get it back!).
Problems with Yamaha Low Brass Valves?
Yamaha utilizes a nylon valve guide (taquet) that makes for nice and quiet valves, but also a few extra headaches, too. If you use Yamaha low brass, read about your valves.
Scratchy Valves / Oiling Valve Springs
Sometimes trumpet valves make a slight scratchy or scraping sound, especially after cleaning or oiling the valves. This articles shows why and how to cure that problem.
Working with Pianists
If you are preparing a recital or planning to do a Solo & Ensemble performance, follow these guidelines when working with a pianist.
Orchestral Etiquette
Or, "How to Behave Professionally in Any Musical Situation." Based on a handout by Elaine Douvas, Principal Oboe, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra (1977-present); Former Principal Oboe, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (1973-1977); Faculty, The Julliard School. Although this article is called "Orchestral Etiquette," the points herein apply to any and all rehearsal situations: Band, Chamber Music, and/or Solo with Pianist.
Difficulty Ratings
In an effort to aid educators passing along this information, I've added the following graphics to each article. This will help you in determining what you (or they) are getting themselves into.
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Smooth Sailing
We use this level to indicate an article that covers simple, basic knowledge. Feel free to
pass this along to the youngest student. No real risk of damaging the instrument. |
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Not Bad
Again, these articles usually cover a basic aspect of instrument maintenance. The danger
to the instrument usually is limited only to losing instrument parts (such as screws,
etc.). Suitable for almost every student, although the vocabulary might get a bit wordy. |
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Pay Attention
Now we're getting a little tricky. If you are pretty handy around the house, have no fear.
The chance of damaging your instrument is still limited primarily to losing parts.
Suitable for older students, say high school and older. |
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Be Careful
Articles with this graphic usually include some risk to the instrument and your best
judgement should be used on choosing to whom you pass this information. They are still not
terribly difficult, but care should be taken to follow the directions exactly. |
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Warning: Experts Only
Be extremely careful when following these articles. We will not post anything too
dangerous here, but these articles carry definite risks for your instrument. Be sure to
read the directions thoroughly before beginning. These articles should not be attempted by
younger students. |
Disclaimer
Although I made every effort to make the directions in the above articles as clear and easy to follow as possible, I cannot be held responsible for accidental damage that a person might inflict upon their instrument by following these directions. Complete any maintenance on your instrument at your own risk.
