INDEPENDENT MUSICIANSHIP
Harmony Bridge focuses on independent musicianship – teaching students to teach themselves and each other; developing their skills in listening, assessment, and creative problem-solving. The arrangements are very accessible in range and technique so the focus can be on playing musically and with good fundamentals.
LEVELS
Beginner:
3 parts (like-instruments or mixed instruments) optional percussion
Intermediate:
4 parts plus percussion*
Advanced:
5 parts plus percussion*
*percussion can be optional but is recommended
SHOWMANSHIP
The Harmony Bridge method addresses showmanship as well as musicianship; teaching the difference between being a player and being a performer; understanding the importance of connecting with the audience. Clearly these are life skills which go far beyond the music.
FLEXIBLE INSTRUMENTATION
Pieces allow for various instrument combinations which develops a sensitivity to balance, particularly when combining woodwinds with brass. Since there are parts for all instruments, the music can also be rehearsed and performed as a full band.
NAVIGATION GUIDE
The Trio book, in score form,
uses highlighted staves for easy navigation. All books use RED brackets to identify melody which is constantly passed from player to player. The Intermediate and Advanced books use additional brackets for parallel and similar harmony lines, countermelodies, and
other important material
to be brought out.
FUN TO PLAY AND HEAR
Songs are essentially melody and accompaniment; different styles, toe-tapping, familiar tunes. Everyone gets the melody, interesting parts throughout and builds musical confidence and self-esteem.