Description

Sound Innovations for Concert Band, Book 1 is an exceptionally comprehensive and thoughtfully crafted method book tailored for novice band students. Developed with contributions from thousands of educators, it showcases clear, easy-to-navigate page designs and a well-structured progression of skills. The book sets explicit objectives for each exercise, provides substantial reinforcement of new concepts, offers performance opportunities, incorporates a variety of musical styles, and includes innovative teaching and practice resources. Notably, note names are omitted from the note heads to expedite the development of musical literacy. The initial pitch is concert D, facilitating easier ranges and fingerings. The book is organized into six concise levels, presenting benchmarks, assessment indicators, and intermediate goals to assist both students and teachers.

Each book grants complimentary access to SI Online, a comprehensive platform that offers supplemental worksheets, practice tracks, alternative tunes, additional full concert band pieces, instrument-specific instructional videos, and more—all accessible without the need for a login. Accompaniment tracks can be adjusted in speed and looped for challenging sections. The PDFs encompass music theory, history, scale exercises, chorales, rhythm pages, and additional materials for reinforcement and differentiation, suitable for both classroom and home use. These resources support students from their initial notes to their final solo, while providing teachers the flexibility to customize pacing and instruction to accommodate the distinct needs of their ensemble.

Book 1 is available at no cost in MakeMusic Cloud, an interactive practice tool that captivates students and simplifies assessment. Furthermore, with a paid subscription, students can access SI Extras—exercises accompanied by immersive soundtracks from popular superhero films such as Wonder Woman, Batman, Superman, Black Adam, and others!