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Band Methods

Band music doesn't just teach itself, and while a great human instructor is usually the most important piece in the instructional puzzle, even the greatest teacher does his or her best work with a solid resource in hand. Moreover, an ambitious student can help his or her own progress along by finding some excellent materials to work from in between lessons. Whichever side of that equation you're on, this selection of band methods is the perfect place to get started building up your library of reference materials. There are books and guides here for every instrument in the band, so no matter what you play and/or teach, it's safe to say there are at least a few method books waiting for you.

Of course, not all bands are the same and musicians aren't born experts - which means that there are lots of different experience and skill levels to factor into the equation. On that note, finding the right band methods depends first and foremost on choosing books that provide the best individual fit. A beginning drummer, for example, would benefit from the Alfred Stick Control for the Snare Drummer (Book) or the Hal Leonard Modern Drummer Presents Fundamentals of Drumming for Kids. A more experienced percussionist, on the other hand, would find more value in the higher-level concepts taught by the Alfred Progressive Steps to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer Book.

While some methods are designed to teach playing styles and techniques, others may be aimed at specific types of music. Movie-loving clarinetists will probably like the Alfred Star Wars Clarinet Instrumental Solos (Movies I-VI Book & CD) for instance, while a saxophonist looking to be his or her Sunday best would appreciate the Alfred Favorite Songs of Praise (Alto Sax Version). There's no one-size-fits-all method book, and finding the perfect choice will depend on instrument, musical style, experience level and, of course, the kinds of music that the reader is passionate about. Whether you're the student or the instructor, if you factor all of these things in when selecting your band methods, you'll be well on your way to getting great results!