Tips That Click Phi Beta Mu
Outstanding Video Resources for Band Directors (Part II)
This article is the conclusion of a review of some exciting DVD resources that are available to band directors. These videos are available from dealers in this state such as Art’s Music Shop (
www.artsmusicshop.com) and Gadsden Music Company (
www.gadsdenmusic.com)
Foundations for Wind Band Clarity (
www.visionpublications.net) is an outstanding resource that gives a systematic explanation of how to improve the
in this hour-long video. There are also printed materials for use with ensembles that are available separately.
ensemble sound of any instrumental group. David Vandewalker, former band director at Harrison High School in Georgia and presently on the faculty of Georgia State University, walks you a logical process that can be used of bands of any size or proficiency. Measureable improvement in tone quality, balance, blend, and articulation are demonstrated with a live ensemble. An important element of the process is that the students are engaged in the improvement process through participation in the assessment of the performance segment and evaluation comments. The video is organized into modules with a single concept receiving focus. Mr. Vandewalker gives an overview and narrative of the skill being addressed, and then the video proceeds to drills being used in a band setting. The improvement that occurs during the band segments is quite remarkable, and directors can easily see how this process could be adapted to fit the needs of their group. My only complaint about the DVD is that the production value lacks a little in professional polish, but the content that is contained is first rate and well worth the price of $39.95. If you are a young teacher and every wondered what that little bit of magic is that separates an “Excellent” rating from a “Superior” or a “Superior” from a “Superior with Distinction”, I think you will find many of the answers
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Bravo Music (
www.bravomusic.com) has a great set of instructional DVDs for band directors. These videos were originally developed to help train bandmasters in Japan. The band programs in Japan exist as clubs and most of the bandmasters actually teach other subjects and meet with their band outside of the school day. The WINDS series covers demonstrations of all the band instruments as well as extensive coverage and analysis of rehearsal techniques. I have been purchasing these over the last few years and watching them during lunch and planning. The volume that I am viewing presently is titled Teaching Smaller Bands. This particular DVD addresses the unique challenges of reduced instrumentation and has live examples of how to adapt literature and fundamental programs to small groups. A great feature of this video are the excerpts played by groups of larger than 45 and then gradually getting smaller until there are less than 20 musicians. It is impressive to see and hear how the excellence of sound and sonority is maintained using the techniques utilized by the clinicians. All of the DVDs that I have purchased from this company are outstanding and well worth the $32.00 invested.
What are your favorite DVD resources? Send your nominations to
pemin@mac.com for review in a future column.
Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmaster Fraternity is committed to developing excellence in school bands in Alabama and their instruction. Please email
pemin@mac.com with comments and suggestions for this column.
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