Brass Playing Articles
For Weekend Warriors
Twelve Great Brass Playing Moments in the Movies
Brad Howland – November 2004
Here is my (entirely subjective) list of twelve of the greatest moments for brass instruments in the history of film.
Lessons Learned from the Slide Trumpet
Chase Sanborn – July 2004
While the trombone slide is often considered somewhat of an impediment compared to valves, I've recently been experimenting with an instrument that has caused me to reconsider the possibilities inherent in the slide. Maybe it's not such an impediment after all!
Keeping the Internal Tune Going
Brad Howland – July 2004
Why are we here, performing on stage? To teach the audience something about art. We do this by listening to the sound that is in our heads and allowing it to come through us, not by attempting to create something unnatural and force it out of our bodies.
Brad Howland – June 2002
The gripping saga of how an out-of-shape 40 year old dusted off his old running shoes for one more race.
It's About Breathing: Playing Trombone with Asthma
Murray Polson – August 2001
Asthma and the trombone both depend on air flow: asthma constricts that flow while the trombone needs a smooth and plentiful supply. A life-long asthmatic, Murray shares some personal thoughts on breathing and playing trombone.
Brad Howland – July 2001
My 40th birthday was approaching at the speed of light, so naturally thoughts turned to aging and how it affects brass players. Along with the usual mid life activities (e.g. taking up jogging, buying a motorcycle, and watching the movie American Beauty), I decided to do a little research into this topic and see what I could find out (just kidding about the motorcycle).
Ten Quick Tips for Trombone Players
Brad Howland – June 2001
Here are ten simple ideas that will immediately improve your trombone playing.
Brad Howland – February 2001
You may have heard about the passing of the much-heralded jazz trombonist J.J. Johnson early this month. I would like to share a few thoughts about why we loved his playing so much.
Quotations for Thoughtful Musicians
Brad Howland – June 2000
A collection of quotations, for those musicians who like to ponder these things...