Posted by Matt Walters on November 08, 2000 at 18:30:51:
In Reply to: starting a new student posted by Matt Green on November 08, 2000 at 13:46:24:
The Rubank Elemntary is a fine and classic place to begin. However, there is an old gem that is hard to beat.
KUHN-CIMERA METHOD for TUBA is a real classic! It is published by Belwin. Since the student has already been through a year or so of instructions, he/she won't need a book with cartoons. It is the most logical beginner through intermediate book ever. It has good explainations and exercises. It teaches in order of priority just what a student will need to function in the band (the primary outlet). There are duets that kids love (you'll enjoy, too) and need to do. The first one begins on page 6. There are plenty of tunes for the kids to enjoy. Towards the back there are scales written out. You want to teach your student how to get ready for auditions, right? Suppliment this book with a few simple solos and your student will be having a great time learning. Let's face it. Bordogni and Koprash are nice, but pyrotechnics are not what band directors want from a school age tubist. They want the right note at the right time. PERIOD!
You can then go from the KUHN-CIMERA METHOD right to Rubank Advanced ( Though plan on 2 weeks for each of the first 2 lessons, then no problem.) At this point you can add in Arbans and Bordogni.
Make the lesson light with one good belly laugh each week and you are on your way.
Here is an extra word of wisdom for free. Schedule your lessons 45 minutes apart. Tell mom and dad they are only paying you for 30 minutes. If Johnny practiced, he can stay 45 minutes. If not, it will be a structured 30 minute practice session, then Johnny has to go home. Explain that if this happens too often, you will ask them to stop waisting your time and their money. Believe me, parents are cheap! The lure of an extra 15 minutes free will help them encourage their child to practice.
Matt