Key Sequences

"Key Sequences" is a unique WARM-UP collection fostering the essential performance skills for all members of the Concert Band. There are fifteen "Key Sequences" -- one for each Major key signature, including enharmonic spellings. During each exercise, the Woodwind, Brass, and Mallet players perform a Scale, Scale-in-3rds, Arpeggio, and Chromatic Scale; these fundamentals are punctuated by sustained Unisons (for tone and tuning), and standard Chord Progressions (for balance, intonation, and further listening). The innovation is found in the Percussion Section etudes, designed to keep every player engaged throughout. These percussion ensembles synchronize exactly with the Key Sequences, while also supporting students' rudimental development. Each percussion ensemble highlights a specific set of Rudiments, applying the full Rudimental treatment to the Snare Drum and Quads, while also offering success for students at lower skill-levels by playing Bass Drum, Cymbals and Base Rhythm ("sticking patterns") parts. Notably, the percussion ensembles are interchangeable: any percussion etude may be used in combination with any Key. Because of a groundbreaking system of Timpani tuning, Directors may choose "Concert Eb ~ #4" for the winds/mallets, while assigning "M ~ Dissecting the Rudimental Rolls" for the Percussionists. Therefore, the daily goal might be, simultaneously, a specific Key for pitched instruments, and a specific set of Rudiments for the Percussionists. Salient features: Wind/Mallet musicians may use "Key Sequences" as a reference, or to support their personal practice, or in self-guided groups regardless of the instrumentation. Percussionists will discover a well-organized system helping them to learn, memorize, and master the Rudiments. Regardless of their skill-level, students will find a matching pathway to success. The Wind/Mallet parts each have a cover sheet designed to clarify imperative concepts: Key Signature Theory, the Circle of 4ths, Transposition for individual instruments, and more. The Battery Percussion parts include careful labeling of Rudiments; a methodical build-up from sticking-pattern-to-Rudiment; and, several pages of important text compiled to help students develop into well-rounded Percussionists. The full set of fifteen Percussion Etudes can be used as a core educational device to help students learn the P.A.S. Rudiments: use these compositions in Percussion Ensembles, with small-group lesson classes, in Sectional Rehearsals, and with individual soloists. Percussion Ensemble "J" for example ("A Rudimental Rendezvous"), features nearly two dozen different rudiments in a brief but fun ensemble setting. Synopsis: Designed for grades 8 (advanced) through early college, "Key Sequences" works equally well in rehearsals, small ensembles, and individual or small-group lessons. Highly recommended for your Full Band and especially for your Percussion Section's development! CONSIDER ALSO: "Key Sequences JUNIOR" for 2nd-through-4th year Band musicians. This version focuses on the six most common Major Keys found in Middle School compositions, and one Chromatic exercise based in Concert B-Flat. With Technique as well as Tone Development lines, it is designed to support advanced and remedial players simultaneously. The Percussion ensembles are expanded to offer ten unique roles, so even the largest bands will have fun and educational parts to play.