Monique's Music

Selecting your first instrument might seem like a significant decision, but in reality, there is no incorrect choice. The ideal instrument for you is the one that excites and motivates you to play. Here are a few things to consider when deciding between flute, clarinet, and saxophone. Flute The flute is a lightweight instrument that is convenient for travel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking portability. It emits a clear, silvery tone and is frequently featured in classical...

When starting something new it's hard to ensure that we are doing everything 'right' and often we pick up some bad habits. So here are some common practice errors that I see students make and how to avoid them! The first thing to remember is to be aware of what you are doing, even the smallest thing can make a huge difference to your practice. LOCATION How many of you practice in a small room with a closed door? There's a problem with this. In small rooms, we tend to play more quietly...

That darned reed! If you're a clarinet or saxophone player (sorry double reeds, I won't even attempt to go there!) you will know about this little piece of timber that is so, so important to creating a good sound. However, some days, it just doesn't sound good! This blog goes through understanding reeds on a clarinet and saxophone. Important things you should know! What is a reed? A reed is a piece of cane (a plant akin to bamboo) that is secured to a mouthpiece with a ligature (the gold or...