When you’re first learning how to play the saxophone, one of the most important techniques to focus on is your embouchure. Now, you may be wondering, “what is saxophone embouchure?” Embouchure is the way in which a player applies or positions their lips and mouth to the mouthpiece of a brass or woodwind instrument.

Preparing for a performance or a gig can be a nerve-racking endeavor, especially if you’re relatively new to performing publicly or don’t gig very often. It can be even more daunting, and sometimes even overwhelming feeling, if you’re performing with a group you’ve never played with before, or an ensemble consisting of musicians you don’t know particularly well. Having to quickly learn each musician’s communication style and musical vocabulary on the bandstand can feel intimidating.

On December 30, 2021, a wildfire broke out in Colorado that would grow to become the most devastating in the state’s history. Over the course of just a few short days, the fire, which became known as the Marshall Fire, burned nearly 6,200 acres, destroyed over 1,000 homes and buildings, and required the evacuation of roughly 35,000 people. Causing over $500M in damages, the Marshall Fire was absolutely devastating and impacted the lives of thousands of Coloradans.

While 2021 was in many ways similar to 2020, we're thankful to have had a great year with much exciting forward progress. More importantly, we’re thankful we could provide a musical oasis for our students and be an outlet for their exploration and creativity!