I have built a new tool for those of us who teach introductory aural training. IntervalQUIZ.com is a free, anonymous, browser-based interval identification practice app. A synthesized piano sound plays two notes (m2 – P8) either ascending or descending and then simultaneously. Students attempt to identify the interval and then receive immediate feedback. In case of […]

Let’s face it: playing an instrument is really, really difficult. Even the “basics” that most people cover in their first year or so are a substantial challenge. Think about it: you have to master a new set of physical skills, including precise control of muscles you might not have even known were voluntary. You have to become […]

I am pleased to announce the launch of http://www.tuningdrones.com/. This site replaces my old “Bone Drones” recordings with a fully customizable solution. In addition to selecting any pitch in any octave, this drone can also play octaves, fifths, and major or minor triads – in either equal temperament or just intonation. The app includes 14 different timbres […]

This past weekend, I presented at the South Texas Brass Symposium. Part of the event was a clinic for high school students preparing etudes for their All-State auditions. During this masterclass, I started thinking back to my high school experience, and what I was thinking about preparing for these kinds of auditions. The etudes were […]