April 13, 2026 Rehearsal Recap
We began today’s session with a discussion of concert pitch and why bands use Concert B♭ as a common reference point. From there, we explored the difference between concert pitch and the key of an individual piece or part.
We also learned a practical way to determine the key of a piece by looking at the key signature:
For sharp keys: the key is the note above the last sharp
For flat keys: the key is the second-to-last flat
And one to remember: one flat = the key of F
Practicing at Home
We spent a few minutes talking about how to make home practice both effective and enjoyable:
Keep sessions short and focused
Have a simple plan (long tones, fingerings, tricky passages, etc.)
When something is difficult, slow it WAY down and work one measure at a time
Always end with something fun—this keeps you motivated and coming back!
Instrument of the Week
A big thank you to Alan M. for this week’s Instrument of the Week: trumpet!
Next week, we’ll feature the saxophone.
Rehearsal Highlights
Beginners Rock! We focused on measure 44, making sure to honor the quarter rest on beat 1—a detail that also appears in measure 24.
Celebratory Fanfare. We explored three types of articulation: staccato, accent, and unmarked. Great work bringing those contrasts to life, especially in measures 9–10 where all three appear together. From measure 27 to the end, we worked on shaping our long notes by slightly increasing volume, giving them a more expressive sound—particularly on the final note.
New Orleans Strut. Our goal was better balance between the original melody and When the Saints Go Marching In (starting in measure 25). Low brass and woodwinds: a little less forte. Everyone else: a little more piano. The result was a much clearer, more musical blend—well done!
Alamo. This continues to be our stretch piece, and you rose to the challenge! We listened to a recording and discussed new elements in this piece:
Cut time
Trills
Higher ranges
Split parts
A more complex roadmap
We sight-read slowly in 4/4 (skipping the intro), and while it started off rough—as expected—you stayed with it and found your footing. I’m very proud of the perseverance I heard today. Remember: it is always OK to simplify—play the first note of each measure or just the notes you’re comfortable with.
Star-Spangled Banner. A great reminder to play what’s written, not just what we think we know from memory. Excellent sight-reading across the group!
Shining Moments. Noticeable improvement since last time! The quarter-note melodies—especially around measure 13—are sounding much smoother and more connected.
For Next Week
Please have the following ready:
Fandango Festival
Shining Moments
Blue Rock
Pirates of the Caribbean
Go with the Flow
As always, thank you for your focus, effort, and willingness to try new things. You continue to grow each week, and it shows!