Humidity Control Compact enough to fit in an instrument case, Vandoren’s Hygro Reed Cases provide a humidity-control system for reed storage. Each case features space for six reeds, a sponge to maintain optimal humidity and a disc that indicates when it’s time to add water. Models include the HRC10, which holds clarinet or alto sax reeds, and the HRC20, which holds bass clarinet, tenor sax or baritone sax reeds. More info:dansr.com
Fusion Mics Audix has added the f50 and f50S microphones to its Fusion series. The f50 and f50S are designed for stage use as well as for rehearsals and home recording. Both models feature a cardioid polar pattern, which helps provide vocal isolation from room noise and unwanted stage sounds. More info:audixusa.com
Body & Soul Whole Notes: A Piano Masterclass, by musician and educator Armen Donelian, is a piano method book and a guidebook to accompany the reader’s personal journey into music. Posture, practicing, mental and physical health, using weight and force, economy of movement and expression are among the topics discussed. The 212-page book contains numerous original compositions, musical examples and technical exercises. More info:advancemusic.com
Custom Collection The Fender Custom Shop has added four guitars and a bass to its 2012 limited collection. The new additions are the 1963 Heavy Relic Stratocaster, 1969 Relic Stratocaster, 1959 Heavy Relic Telecaster (pictured), Relic la Cabronita “Boracha” Jazzmaster and Relic La Cabronita “Boracho” bass. More info:fendercustomshop.com
Vintage Tone Rico’s Reserve model hard-rubber clarinet mouthpiece offers the tone and response of a vintage mouthpiece paired with the intonation and flexibility required by today’s clarinetists. Milled, not molded, the Reserve mouthpiece bore, baffle, chamber and facing are crafted using CNC manufacturing for consistency. More info:ricoreeds.com
Education Guide Published annually in
DownBeat’s October issue
Jazz must not be the property of an elite few who possess
a vast knowledge of the music’s history, performers, nuances and intricacies.
But since jazz is a very advanced art form and has such a rich history, it’s important
to have a grounding in this tradition to fully understand and appreciate what’s
happening…More
