It’s almost my favorite time of the year: the National Flute Association 2024 Convention! At the end of July, I will be traveling to San Antonio, TX to be surrounded by all things flute! My first time attending the NFA convention was in 2023, and it was one of the most inspiring events I have ever been to. Flute players from all over the world come together for sessions, masterclasses, performances, and exhibits. It is a time where online friends meet in person for the first time, and people get to meet flutists they have always looked up to.
While I’m still working on finalizing which sessions I will attend, here are a few I’m SUPER excited about:
Involve yoga for musicians
Irish flute (one of my favorite sessions from last year!),
Orchestral auditions and masterclass, extended techniques, and
And a ton of concerts by various flute ensembles and soloists throughout the convention.
I’m also excited to try out some flutes by the wonderful exhibitors and see what I would like to bring into our flute shop. Stay tuned!
Are you attending the NFA Convention this year? Let me know and I’d love to meet you!
We are delighted to introduce a new line of bows from Arcos Brasil! Traditionally, the bows we have sourced from Arcos Brasil were made of Pernambuco, the traditional wood of choice for bows. It has the right properties of stiffness and flexibility to make the optimal bow.
The Shift from Pernambuco to Ipe Wood
Unfortunately, heavy sourcing and illegal logging have caused Pernambuco to become an Appendix II endangered species. This means that trade is tightly controlled and difficult to source for many bow makers. As a result, many bow makers have switched to alternative materials. These new bows we are carrying are made from Ipe wood. It is also known as Brazilian walnut and is a beautiful, resilient wood, ideal for making bows.
Our New Lineup of Arcos Brasil Bows
The lineup of these bows is identical to what we have carried in the past, with nickel and silver mounted bows, as well as higher-end specialty and gold mounted bows. We are currently carrying one specialty copy bow for each instrument, with plans to offer the less costly nickel and silver mounted options in the future.
Specialty and Gold Mounted Bows
I was able to take some time to play on the cello bow, which is a copy of a Lamy bow. Joseph Alfred Lamy was one of the most important masters of modern bow making. My first impressions from looking at it were that it is a beautifully crafted bow, with high-quality silver and ebony fittings. The wood is nicely grained and is coated in a rich, red varnish. It felt very comfortable in the hand and had just the right balance point for me.
Personal Experience with the Lamy Bow Copy
I spent some time playing the bow on our Snow Jack Hu cello, and to my surprise it made a cello that’s usually on the more difficult side to play a little easier. It felt just as smooth as our Pernambuco Lamy copy, and I would be hard pressed to tell the difference. Overall, this is a worthwhile addition to our high-end cello bow offerings, and I would recommend any serious player looking for a wood bow to try it!
They say to never bring your home work with you, but no one ever said anything , we had the pleasure of sitting down with Florent Milhaud, the saxophone product manager for Henri SELMER Paris. In this insightful interview, Florent shares his journey from being a passionate saxophone player to leading the product management team at one of the most prestigious saxophone manufacturers in the world. With over 15 years of experience, Florent gives us a glimpse into the meticulous process of research and development at the historical SELMER factory in Montville, near Paris.
From Player to Product Manager
Florent Milhaud’s journey began as a saxophone player, where his love for the instrument eventually led him to his current role. He speaks about the immense privilege and responsibility he feels in managing the saxophone product line at Henri Selmer Paris, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in the world of wind instruments.
Innovation at SELMER’s Historical Factory
The SELMER factory in Mantes-la-Ville, located about 50 kilometers from Paris, has been the birthplace of SELMER saxophones since the 1920s. Florent explains the importance of this historical site, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. The factory is home to a dedicated research and development team that has worked tirelessly on the latest generation of saxophones, including the “Supreme” alto and tenor models, as well as the newly released “Signature” Models.
These new models, launched in 2021 and 2023 respectively, represent the pinnacle of saxophone design and craftsmanship. Florent and his team are proud of these instruments, which they believe will set the standard for the next 30 years.
Embracing the Secondhand Market
Florent also highlights SELMER’s initiatives in the secondhand market. Recognizing the value and demand for vintage SELMER instruments, the company has started “REWIND”, a project to restore and resell these historical pieces. From clarinets to trumpets, and even guitars, SELMER’s secondhand program ensures that their legacy instruments continue to be cherished and played by new generations of musicians.
An Invitation to Visit SELMER in Paris
For those visiting Paris, Florent extends a warm invitation to the SELMER showroom located in the picturesque Montmartre district. This showroom is a testament to the brand’s rich heritage and commitment to excellence. Visitors can explore the latest models and see firsthand the craftsmanship that goes into each SELMER instrument.
Florent Milhaud’s dedication to advancing the art of saxophone making is truly inspiring. His insights into the development process, the importance of preserving historical instruments, and the future of SELMER saxophones offer a fascinating look into the world of high-quality musical instrument manufacturing.
If you’re ever in Paris, don’t miss the chance to visit the SELMER showroom. For more information, visit their website and plan your visit. Stay tuned to our blog for more interviews and updates from the world of music!
We are thrilled to announce the arrival of two exceptional Selmer Paris Alto Saxophones: the Selmer Paris “Axos” and the Selmer Paris “Signature”. These instruments offer superior quality and performance for musicians of all levels. Read on to learn more about what makes these models stand out and how you can experience them firsthand.
The Selmer Paris “Axos”: The Accessible Professional Choice
The Seles Axos saxophone is made in the Henri Selmer Paris factory located in Mantes-la-Ville, France, the same factory where all other Selmer models have been crafted since 1922. Like all top-of-the-range Henri Selmer Paris instruments, the Axos continues the tradition of craftsmanship while integrating new industrial techniques.
Features:
The “Axos” is made with the same quality metals as other Henri Selmer Paris saxophones.
The treatment of the strategic part of the saxophone, the bore, in Selmer’s metal workshops is as rigorous as the treatment of their professional models.
This ensures that the Henri Selmer Paris sound identity—a delicate balance between rich harmonics and roundness of sound—is found in the “Axos”.
Despite its affordability, the “Axos” doesn’t compromise on quality. Known for its rich, dark tonal quality, this saxophone suits a wide range of musical styles and skill levels. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a “forever” instrument that grows with them over time.
The Selmer Paris “Signature”: A Legacy Reimagined
The “Signature” alto embodies the evolution of the Super Action 80 Series II model, which has made a significant impact on the history of the saxophone since its release in 1986. While retaining the sound characteristics of the Series II, the Selmer Paris “Signature” offers improved accuracy, especially in the high register, and enhances the resonance of the low register.
Features:
Ergonomics inspired by the Series II to meet the needs of all musicians, benefiting from the latest innovations developed for the Supreme.
A new 3-point neck receiver system for better sound homogeneity.
A nickel-silver tightening ring for greater density in the sensitive neck zone.
An octave key with Teflon supports for more mechanical fluidity.
Adorned with an original Art Deco-style engraving paying homage to the age-old techniques passed down from generation to generation within the Selmer Paris factory since 1919.
The “Signature” alto is both a traditional saxophone and a beacon of modernity. This saxophone excels in both classical and jazz settings, making it a top pick for those who demand the best in sound customization.
Experience Them Yourself: Schedule Your Appointment
We invite you to experience the distinct qualities of the Selmer Paris “Axos” and “Signature” models firsthand at Paige’s Music. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you in exploring these magnificent saxophones and finding the perfect match for your musical journey. To ensure you get personalized attention and a dedicated session, we encourage you to schedule an appointment in advance.
Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your music with Selmer’s latest offerings. Whether you’re performing in a concert hall or jazz club, these saxophones will help you deliver outstanding performances. Visit Paige’s Music and discover why Selmer Paris remains a top choice for musicians around the world!
If you’ve been playing the cello for a while, you might have encountered an unusual sound when playing an F# on the G or D strings, coupled with excessive vibration. This phenomenon is known as a wolf tone. It occurs when the note you’re playing is close to the natural resonance frequency of the cello, typically between F and G. The resulting sound is an artificial overtone that amplifies the frequency of the note, leading to a wolf tone. So, what can you do about it?
Identifying the Wolf Tone The first step in addressing a wolf tone is to understand its cause. A wolf tone arises when the resonance of the string clashes with the resonance of the cello body. While it’s challenging to eliminate a wolf tone completely, there are effective ways to manage it.
Consult a Luthier Taking your cello to a luthier should be your first course of action. They can check for set-up issues that might contribute to the wolf tone, such as a tight sound post, a high bridge, or high-tension strings. A professional assessment can pinpoint the exact cause and suggest appropriate adjustments.
Wolf Mitigating Options Several products on the market can help mitigate wolf tones. These include:
Wolf Eliminators: These are weights attached to the string between the bridge and the tailpiece. They help reduce the intensity of the wolf tone.
Wolf Modulators: This option involves a magnetic weight. The heavier side is placed behind the top, and the smaller side goes on the front, held in place by the magnet.
Playing Techniques For mild wolf tones, altering your playing technique can also help. You can try:
Applying less bow weight.
Applying more weight on the fingerboard.
Squeezing the cello between your knees when playing the problematic note.
Remember, these techniques might affect the overall sound, so be prepared for some trial and error to find what works best for you.
Other Instruments While wolf tones are most commonly found in cellos, they can sometimes occur in basses and, rarely, in violins and violas. It’s important to be aware of this if you play or are considering playing these instruments.
Paige’s Music Can Help At Paige’s Music, our full-service repair shop is equipped to help you address wolf tones. Our trained specialist staff can guide you in installing wolf eliminators and modulators. If you rent or purchase an instrument from us and discover a wolf tone, we’ll fix it before you leave the store.
Managing wolf tones is crucial for maintaining the quality of your cello’s sound. Whether through professional adjustments or playing techniques, there are ways to reduce their impact. For expert assistance, visit Paige’s Music. We’re here to ensure your instrument sounds its best. Ready to address your cello’s wolf tone? Visit Paige’s Music today for professional help and advice. Let us help you make your cello or bass sing!
This month marks two years since I have started at Paige’s Music and I am so proud of how we have grown our presence in the trumpet community through our awesome videos, new accessories, and even the new trumpets that we are carrying! With all of that said, this month could be the biggest yet! We are so excited to have more custom and professional trumpets in stock than ever before with more coming over the next few months!
Over the last few years, I’m sure you’ve heard about the changes being made up at Bach/Conn Selmer. We are so excited to have some of their B-flat and C trumpets alongside the iconic Conn Vintage One in stock!
This month we should also receive some of the custom C Trumpets from Yamaha that are very hard to get! Additionally, Shires has quickly ascended to being one of the most sought-after trumpet brands in the trumpet community. Over the next few months, we’ll be getting more of their custom line trumpets.
So, please watch our social media and YouTube channel for announcements on these incredible instruments and their availability. If you are interested in knowing more specifics about what we have in stock or will be getting, feel free to reach out to me personally. We are so excited to have these instruments in stock for our valued customers to come in and try them out!
Now that summer break has officially begun, you might be wondering, “What should I do with my instrument over break?”, “Do I really NEED to practice this summer?”, or “What can I do with music that’s not summer marching band?”. While some schools offer summer activities for students, there are other important things to consider during the break to set yourself up for success in the next school year!
1. Get a Clean, Oil, and Adjust (COA) on Your Flute
Summer is the perfect time to bring your flute into our repair shop for a Clean, Oil, and Adjust (COA). Getting your flute serviced once per year keeps it in great condition, allowing you to play your best throughout the year. Our expert repair technicians will take excellent care of your flute. Simply bring your flute into our store, check it in with our sales staff, and pick it up a week later. Your flute will play like a dream!
2. Take Time to Rest
It’s called “Summer Break” for a reason! Take some time to rest and enjoy activities that bring you joy. Resting will make you feel rejuvenated and ready to start the new school year. Discover a new hobby, spend time with friends and family, go on vacation, and do whatever makes you happy!
3. Remember to Get Some Practice Time In
While taking a short break from your instrument is beneficial, you don’t want to stop playing altogether during the summer. Not practicing can make you backtrack, and when the school year starts, you might feel rusty. Playing something fun during the summer can help maintain your skills. There are countless online sources for flute music, including free ones. Find music you enjoy and practice that!
4. Look into Private Lessons
Summer is a great time to start private lessons. This can give you a head start for the next school year, and there is usually more availability in studios during the summer months. Working with a private teacher can greatly expand your skills. One-on-one sessions with a flute specialist allow you to focus on areas you might not have time for during band class. Good news! We have a convenient page on our website to help you find local teachers: Find a Teacher.
5. Go See a Concert
With all the extra free time during summer, why not check out some live music? Attending a concert—whether it’s classical, pop, rock, or any genre you like—can be a great way to get inspired without practicing your instrument. Many orchestras, concert bands, and other music groups offer free concerts throughout the summer.
It’s been almost a month, and I am still basking in the afterglow of the Third Annual Tuba & Euphonium Day that took place here at Paige’s Music on April 27. To call the event a success would be selling short my feelings about it, so let’s just give it a quick recap.
This year saw the largest assortment of tubas and euphoniums the store has ever seen at one time – from Yamaha, Shires, Willson, and Eastman, many instruments were brought in specifically for people to try out at Tuba & Euphonium Day (huge thanks to Eastman Music Company for coordinating so many different horns).
We welcomed Scott Sutherland to the store as our guest artist for this year’s event. From the very beginning, Scott showed just how incredible a musician and all-around human being he is, working with players of all ages to demo instruments all day with knowledge, friendliness, personal attention, and most of all a genuine enthusiasm that never waned.
The day culminated in Scott giving a clinic on incorporating technology into a musician’s daily routine – whether it’s in the practice room, onstage, or in a DIY recording studio. He accompanied this with a live performance that married his own (awesome) YouTube videos with in-person playing. (Did I mention his YouTube content is awesome? Seriously, check it out if you haven’t. There was even an impromptu, surprise (even to me) performance by yours truly of “Pure Imagination” from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory with Scott accompanying on piano (yes, he plays piano, too – and beautifully).
