The Summerglen Files

I’ve been keeping a journal of my trombone practice for over ten years, and it’s really enhanced my practice experience! Here’s a video on how to get started with your own practice journal. Enjoy!

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When I was in high school, my trombone teacher had an endless supply of laments about the weak state of my lungs (and tone). Unfortunately for both of us, his instructions to “breathe deeper” and “fill up my lungs” lesson after lesson weren’t exactly getting results. But what DID get results was the day he [...]

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Happy Monday, Summerglen friends! We’ve been insanely busy over here at the ‘glen. I’ve been working hard on setting up another after-school elementary band and some creativity workshops for businesspeople, and Andrew has been out playing solo percussion shows! (Pics of his latest show will be up within the next couple of days!) But the [...]

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Ugh. Today I’ve begun a huge transition in my trombone playing–from focusing on ensemble work to honing my skills as a solo player. For the past few years, I’ve centered my attention on strengthening my sightreading abilities, building my understanding of many different musical styles, and developing solid technique that I can incorporate into any [...]

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It’s time! This evening at 6pm, Andrew will present his solo percussion recital, clinic, and book release celebration at 2112 Percussion here in Raleigh. It’s going to be a great time, but first we have to get through the rest of the day… Any gig requires a substantial amount of work and planning to be [...]

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I’m happy and relieved to announce that my drumset method book, Building Grooves: A Beginner’s Guide To Drumset Control And Coordination, is finally done! Seven years of writing, testing, and teaching have all come together into 44 pages of groove! The official release date for the book will be January 14, 2010. I’ll be having [...]

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As I was packing up my scores after a Wiley Band rehearsal earlier this week, a parent asked me why I was taking my music home. “To study,” I said. The parent replied with surprise, “But why do YOU need to study? You’re a professional!” Without even knowing it, this lady had answered her own [...]

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It has truly been the year of the book here at Summerglen Music. Back in June, Christina published her Women Embracing Creativity book, and now Andrew has a book of his own as well–Building Grooves: A Beginner’s Guide to Drumset Control and Coordination! Andrew’s proof copy came in the mail today, and it looks great! [...]

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Ever wonder what makes music education so unique and valuable? This recording of composer and music educator Jack Stamp hits the nail right on the head! Music isn’t just something to pass the time or fill the space; it’s an art form that can bring out the very best in those who pursue it.

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Welcome back for part 3 of our “Watch the Marching Band Grow” series here on the Summerglen Blog! For the past two weeks, we’ve been working a lot with the band on musical unity and emotional expression. And at this weekend’s performance at the Capital City Band Expo, the kids did the best they’ve ever [...]

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