In recent years, wind band instrumentation has become increasingly diverse, with more small ensembles and bands exhibiting imbalances in instrumental distribution. As a result, it is often difficult to have all three parts covered by a single instrument group. However, many traditional ensemble method books?mostly written during the era when large ensembles were the norm?assume that all three harmony parts are available for each instrument section. Consequently, many modern bands are unable to fully practice harmony during ensemble training.
Furthermore, while chorale practice plays a vital role in basic ensemble training, there have been very few method books designed to bridge the gap between fundamental exercises and chorale performance. In particular, resources for practicing a variety of harmonies beyond the primary triads, or for developing sensitivity to non-chord tones, have been lacking.
This method book was created to address these needs. It can also be used as a warm-up tool in various keys.