What's in a name?

After the annual contemporary Christian music festival I was helping to present, I noticed some very expensive musical instruments were left behind in the worship center. I checked the cases, but couldn't locate any names or contact information to assist me in returning these items.

Directors, make it a priority to check all of your musicians equipment to make sure that they are properly marked with return information. This is especially important if the students are using school or church equipment.

When I am performing, my business cards are taped on every piece of equipment that leaves my house, When I play piano, this includes, power cords, hand carts, music stand, connecting cables, cases, sustain pedal, and keyboard stand.

I sent a mass emailing to all the director describing the lost instruments, but, as yet, haven't had a single reply.

So what's in a name? It simply means the piece of mind that your music equipment will be returned in a timely manner.

good gigging!

Larry Marra

www.musicteachers911.com

Be sure to subscribe to the iTunes podcast, musicteachers911 for more helpful tips.

Annual Instrument Check-up

This tip I learned from my HS Band Director. Before the first day of school I would take an afternoon to completely inspect, maintenance, and repair all the instruments in my ensembles. I would check every valve, side key, slide, finger pad, and tuning peg. I used to give the brass a bath, blow dry, and oil change. The strings got a fresh coat of lemon and linseed oil and wax. Every woodwind side key and pad was tested and repaired. Later that night, I would do the same with every instrument that I used for my personal performances with various ensembles. Being on stage, away from home, is no time to find out that an instrument isn't functioning properly.

The Marines have a saying, "Take care of your weapon, and it will take care of you". I feel that this could also apply to your instrument of choice as well.

Good Gigging!

Larry Marra

www.musicteachers911.com