Texas Bandmasters Association
Bandmasters Review • June 2015
12
The second session
Elements of Disrespect!—Dots,
Ties, Rests, Fermatas and other “stuff”
is communicated
from the perspectives of a clinician and contest adjudicator
and deals with the elements of musical style that are most
often ignored, abused or simply lacking in our quest for a
“squeaky clean” performance. Not only do these musical
indiscretions make phrasing, shaping and other interpretive
elements impossible, but they actually create a different,
additional set of technical and execution problems.
Session III
The Musicality “All Inclusive” Rehearsal
is intended to encourage a rehearsal routine that is inclusive
of all elements of the generally accepted “Ten Teaching
The Clinic Tradition - An Opportunity for Sharing
Points” of the Instrumental Music Program.
These axioms, of course, consist of:
1) Attitude (leadership, learning environment)
2) Tone Production
3) Intonation
4) Rhythm
5) Technique
6) Theory
7) Interpretation
8) Repertoire
9) Routine (and “physical” environment)
10) Musicianship
Obviously, these are not listed in order of
importance and although the emphasis shifts in
the daily lesson plan, the focus is always about
the music and the final goal is always musicality.
Nowhere have I observed the “Ten Teaching
Points” more consistently achieved than in the
rehearsals of the great Texas programs.
I am honored to have the opportunity to share
what I have learned from others. I look forward
to continuing to join you each July as we grow
together through the “TBA EXPERIENCE”.
James F. Keene retired from the University of Illinois
in 2008, where he held the titles of Director of Bands and
Brownfield Distinguished Professor of Music. Appointed in
1985, he was only the fourth to hold the Director of Bands
position since 1905. During his 23-year tenure at Illinois, the
Symphonic Band and Wind Symphony, under his direction,
were selected to perform for every major music conference
in the U.S., toured throughout the U.S. and Europe, and
performed in several of America’s most prestigious concert
halls including several appearances at historic Orchestra Hall
in Chicago, as well as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in
New York. Previous to his appointment at The University
of Illinois, Professor Keene taught at all levels, including
building nationally recognized programs at East Texas
State University (now Texas A&M - Commerce) and at The
University of Arizona. He continues to be in constant demand
as conductor, clinician,and adjudicator.
A more detailed biography of Professor Keene can be found
on the TBA website, included with the convention schedule.
