These practice books are created with the intention of helping students learn the required etude for the Illinois Music Educator Association middle school band auditions. Working with a professional flute teacher is the best way to learn, as you will have demonstration and feedback. However, with the understanding that we cannot have lessons every day, let this book be a guide in daily practice.
Steps to Success are just that – a handful of steps to build a strong foundation and grow with productive practice. Take time with each step so you fully master the skills and techniques. Learning an etude requires command of tone, technique, and musicality; be patient and thorough. Revisit each step in this and the other practice books often.
Teachers, band directors, and students of any level can use this book as a complement to teaching and learning the etudes.
Dr. Matthew Allison is a flute instructor in Metro St. Louis and a seasoned ILMEA adjudicator. His intent is to break down the difficult audition requirements in a way that becomes accessible for students of any level to learn, and to provide more material to support the skills needed.
Dr. Allison primarily teaches pre-college students in Illinois, and is also adjunct faculty at Lindenwood University. His previous teaching appointments include Western Illinois University and the Pennsylvania Academy of Music (Chair of Winds, Chair of Theory/Composition). Matthew Allison is a teaching artist for Gemeinhardt Musical Instruments.
The series of Flute Student’s Steps to Success are also intended to be priced accessibly. Additional online tutorial videos are also being developed to help students grow, regardless of access to flute instructors. Please do not copy and distribute these materials.
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