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Orchestra Triage Offers Free Teacher Training for Your Organization
Jerry Henry of Orchestra Triage is offering one no-cost teacher training session each month during the 2015–16 school year— on a first-requested, first-served basis. He will take care of travel and housing and present up to a full day on subjects related to teaching orchestra in classes without charge. Visit www.orchestratriage.com or contact him directly at
K&M Quality and Now as Easy as 1, 2, 3!
The Easy Fold Music Stand is a cinch to open and close with a large desk that smoothly folds in half for transport and storage. The three section folding design is simple to use—no instructions needed! With a height adjustment of 24.5” to 48.75” and the desk measuring 8.5 × 17”, the stand is perfect for all around use. The new standard for style and performance, K&M stands are made in Germany with the highest quality materials and engineering that result in maximum durability and functionality —all this with a five-year warranty and eco-friendly manufacturing.
Harmonious Designs, LLC: Efficiency and Effectiveness Describe Eggmate
“In 25+ years of teaching, I've never had a wrist posture training aid I trusted and recommended to my students … until I now.” This is the testimony of David Miles Wolcott, professional violinist and director of the Dallas Suzuki Academy. It's also the sentiment of a growing number of educators who are discovering the efficiency and effectiveness of EggMATE′'s positive, natural approach to wrist posture training. From an educator perspective, the key to EggMATE's appeal is that the egg-like shape encourages and reinforces the correct posture of the hand and wrist in a natural manner. The full range of available sizes along with the assortment of student-friendly colors, make the EggMATE easy and fun to introduce to students at any age.
The concept for the EggMATE came in a natural manner to Michelle Linquist. She and her son began violin lessons together several years ago. It was then that she recognized the challenge for student and educator alike to acquire proper wrist positioning. Her personal research and exploration has led to the development of an attachment to the instrument, which is present, pleasant, and persistent. The EggMATE slips on or off easily and is safe for the instrument. Because of the multiple sizes available, it's adaptable to any particular thumb location technique an educator prefers. Most importantly, it's simple and inviting to use. Educators, studios and retailers serving the string pedagogy community are encouraged to find out more about the remarkable ease and benefits of the EggMATE. It's perfect practice that makes perfect.”
Pirastro GmbH Improves Tone and Playability of Tonica Viola Set
Over the years Pirastro has developed new concepts and ways of constructing strings and have made important advances in string technology and gained new expertise.
During this development phase, we introduced popular brands such as the Obligato, Evah Pirazzi, Evah Pirazzi Gold, and Passione. Using all of our new knowledge and advanced techniques, we decided to re-design a nylon core string set. As a result we are proud to announce that we have improved the overall tone and playability of the Tonica viola set.
What has changed? Playability
Easier and faster bow response. Considerable improvement in playing pianissimo. Smooth crossings from one note to another using any bow stroke. Easier right hand articulation and tone attack. Sound Characteristic The New Formula Tonica now has a livelier, more open, and round sound with less side noises. Improved projection and brilliance without sacrificing the original formula's warmth. Greatly improved overall set harmony
For more information on the New Formula Tonica Viola set and our entire line of fine strings and rosin, please visit our website www.pirastro.com
Thomastik-Infeld Spirit! Strings Now Available in Fractional Size
The new Spirit! Strings from Thomastik-Infeld, released last summer, have made a splash with their made in Vienna quality and warm and vibrant sound all at a budget-conscious price point —an absolutely unbeatable value!
Developed to spark the musical spirit in the progressing student and aspiring artist, Spirit! Strings embody the superior quality of all Thomastik-Infeld strings with easy and stable tuning, easy response to the bow and they are balanced and long-lasting. Here is what we have heard:
A luthier describes the violin strings as an:
“Excellent value at the price point.”
A professional cellist describes the cello strings as:
“Well balanced, feel great, resonate and project”
And now, they will be available in fractional sizes, singles, and tubes! Spirit joins other family members including Dominant, Vision and Peter Infeld strings among others. Dominant remains the market leader for over 40 years, while Peter Infeld (PI) strings are critically acclaimed among more distinguished players.
Purple Raspberry is the New Color for things 4 Strings® Accessories!
Things 4 Strings® accessories allow beginning orchestral string players the benefits of a relaxed and effective bow hold. Students enjoy producing bowed tones right from their very first lesson, and, with no need for constant bow hold corrections, string teachers and parents optimize valuable instruction and practice time.
The Bow Hold Buddies® accessory, for violin and viola, positions and supports all fingers of the right hand, allowing contact with the bow in all the customary places. The 2-piece set is comprised of a frog-themed thumb/index finger shaper, plus an adjustable pinky support (also available separately as the Hold Fish® accessory). The adorably unique shape and size of the CelloPhant® accessory for cello or (French-style bow) bass, allows for a flexible thumb and an open, relaxed hand. In addition to the new purple raspberry color, Bow Hold Buddies® accessories are available in bright blue, sparkly pink, green/gold and concert black, and CelloPhant® accessories are available in bright blue, sparkly pink, classic gray and concert black.
Accessory inventor and studio teacher Ruth Brons was recently honored for her work advancing strings education by ASTA with the Kudos Award. “Bow Hold Buddies dramatically reduce the time it takes students to master a proper bow hold. Students' energy can be redirected toward other challenges. Quicker progress, more fun!” said Brons.
New and Exciting Publications from Carl Fischer Music
Carl Fischer Music's 2015–2016 String Orchestra releases include new and exciting publications—perfect for any level of playing. Works are available for ensembles with as little as 10 weeks of study, up through advanced players. To listen to recordings and view scores go to www.carlfischer.com.