Partials and Overtones

by | May 26, 2016 | The Harmonic Series

A player is obviously not limited to just seven notes on a brass instrument. Each valve combination or slide position offers a fundamental pitch that has a unique series of resonant frequencies, or harmonics, above it. In essence, each valve combination or slide...

Introduction to the Harmonic Series

by | May 26, 2016 | The Harmonic Series

Knowledge of the acoustic principles of how brass instruments work informs a range of pedagogical topics, including fingerings, intonation tendencies, ranges, and transpositions. While preservice teachers may not require complete acoustical knowledge of each...

Literature Examples

by | May 25, 2016 | Transposition

Most band and wind ensemble brass parts are written for Bb trumpets and F horns. Consequently, they do not require performers to transpose during performance. Likewise, modern composers for beginning orchestral music will typically provide parts for their music in...