String Section

Five Repair Tools Every Orchestra Program Should Own

When we inevitably return to the classroom, due to the extended closures in many areas, some of our school-owned instruments and student-owned instruments might need some minor attention. Hopefully you have a good luthier in your area for any major repairs, but there are several things that are minor, and easy to fix that you can do on your own, if you have the right tools.

Rehabilitation: Surviving the Heavier Side of the Equation

As effects of the ongoing pandemic (shelter-in-place orders, social distancing, general isolation) have been felt around the world, it has snagged us all in some way. No one is exempt from major changes in play. Music especially relies upon togetherness to exist - not only to make music, but to keep the musician in a healthy place, and to help us feel positive and play well.

Rehabilitation for Violinists: Surviving the Coronavirus

With all the weird we have had thrown at us lately, the lack of making music with other people has been by far the most alienating experience.

Establishing an Environment of Trust Expectations in the Classroom

The ability to take the needs of those around you and compromise accordingly (and adjust to them without fuss) makes everyone’s experience better and more pleasant.

‘Am I Successful?’ Navigating the Dangers of Comparison

“Am I successful?” is a question that affects everyone who considers themselves in an educational or professional path.

The Intricacies of Tuning and Wellness

When Eileen McKissick began offering sound therapy in her massage practice, she soon discovered she could use tuning forks to locate and hear disturbances in the energy field, or biofield, that surrounded each of her clients.

Physical Applications: Learning Movement

In my perusal of last month’s SBO content, I came across a comment that addressed the reuse of proven resources and materials to create structure and optimize one’s ability to manage time.

Anomalies: Knowing the Musical Language

Much like using language as a functional aid [like righty-tighty, lefty-loosey], creating and making expressive music involves unique manipulation of a musical line [melody].

Orchestra Survival Skills

I spent the first five (or more) years as an orchestral professional in a perpetual state of panic and/or frustration. I over-prepared.

Which Items Will I Need Today?: The Importance of Packing Your Music Bag Well

How many of us know that sinking feeling that occurs when you open your viola/violin/cello case and discover it has no bow in it?

Back to School: An Olympic Event!

Tips for Integrating and Initiating New Orchestra Members into the Classroom

We all know that orchestra classes are not one teacher giving lessons to a whole bunch of students at one time.

Agility and Artistry

When I started writing these articles, there was a topic I very much felt needed attention but was unable to implement.