Tenly's Oboe Teaching Page

CONGRATULATIONS

2012-01-05T15:24:00.000-08:00

to Lia Hankla for making 2012 Colorado All-State Concert Band!

Check out the credits - musicians always do their own stunts!

2011-09-22T14:41:00.001-07:00

Back to School!

2011-08-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

It is time to go back to school, so make sure you go back having the guidance you need with weekly private oboe lessons! Remember to register at Parlando School for the Arts in Boulder or the Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts in Lafayette. Currently I am only teaching occasionally in Denver, but feel free to contact me if you are interested in that option. Lessons in Denver are perfect if you want some help on oboe, English horn or reeds without making a weekly commitment. You may call my cell phone at 303-910-2718 to inquire. Happy practicing!

Taking Time For Creativity

2011-08-15T18:46:00.001-07:00

This is a perfect tag-a-long to the John Cleese video post below. I don't want to seem like I am a proponent of laziness - on the contrary, the creativity fostered by idleness is only brought to fruition by deliberate execution (usually through hard work and determination). So find your balance. Take time to refuel, relax, and reflect. This is a skill which takes time and practice just like learning to play an instrument.

When was the last time you sat down with colors and a blank sheet of paper? When was the last time you slept without an alarm to wake you? When was the last time you allowed yourself a day free of obligations, and let the day unfold?

Why WOULD anybody want to play the oboe?!?

2011-08-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

I have had the great fortune to see Joseph Robinson in person a couple of times in the last few years right here in Colorado! The first time at CSU's OboeRAMa, and the second time at a master class hosted by CU-Boulder. It appears he has had his wonderful attitude for quite some time! He has also, of course, always been a fabulous player. I have not had the opportunity to meet most of the other people featured in the video, but I have heard Sherry Sylar play live and admire her playing very much. I love this clip for its complete honesty: from the trials and tribulations of dealing with our temperamental reeds, to confessions of love for the oboe's unique sound.

Martin Schuring always has great advice!

2011-07-18T13:25:00.000-07:00

Here is one of his many helpful posts!

Tips on creativity

2011-06-19T09:47:00.001-07:00

Top Music Schools!

2011-04-11T12:03:00.001-07:00

Glad to see mine both made the list!

Not news, and yet.....

2011-03-03T09:24:00.000-08:00

If you're reading this blog, the contents of this article probably won't be news to you. It is nice, however, to have some data to back up what many of us could have guessed by intuition or personal experience.

DON'T MISS THIS!!!

2011-01-09T10:46:00.000-08:00

I have my tickets to hear Peter Cooper perform the Mozart Concerto with the Colorado Symphony. Do you?

As holiday vacations approach...

2010-12-10T13:08:00.000-08:00

... it is important to remember that you can't get better without PRACTICE!

Notice that even after he thinks he has it, he tries it again in a different way just to make sure!

I'm not sure if everyone getting an oboe is really the best idea....

2010-11-19T12:01:00.000-08:00

I can't resist...

2010-11-11T18:38:00.000-08:00

... even though I hear middle ground all the time!

http://www.tonedeafcomics.com/oboe-spectrum

Mpingo

2010-10-07T20:24:00.000-07:00

This is a photo taken by Erin Hannigan in Carlos Coelho's oboe shop. Carlos says this much grenadilla (or mpingo) wood could probably make two oboes!

Musical EXPRESSION

2010-06-05T07:07:00.000-07:00

Musicians talk about musical expression A LOT. I like how this video illustrates musical expression with facial expression. Watch closely and you will see: question and answer, going forward and coming away, mood changes, dynamic changes, and the same musical material presented uniquely each time. While both the musician's and actor's expressions are based on what the composer wrote (meter, rhythm, melody, and harmony), they have both added to that information with their own artistic sense to make it interesting and, I think you'll agree, entertaining.

A quick tip on musical etiquette...

2010-05-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

This video illustrates well one rule of musical etiquette: If one of your fellow musicians is preparing for a performance, don't practice their part if there is any chance they might hear you. Likewise, do not finger along while a colleague is playing a solo. Make plenty of time to practice the repertoire you like in the solitude of your practice room.

No Cheating

2010-04-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about teaching music is that there is no cheating. It simply isn't possible. No one else can practice for you, or learn rhythms for you, or learn to read music for you, or learn how to produce a fabulous sound for you. There are a wealth of people, including myself, who are eager to guide you and offer suggestions, but we cannot actually implement anything on your behalf. So the only cheating that occurs is if you cheat yourself out of an opportunity to learn, grow, or express yourself by not doing the work you must do, alone, between lessons. Of course, this applies to all aspects of life; it is just so obvious in music. Your future success (in any discipline) depends on your ability to implement the suggestions of others, and compliment those suggestions with your own discoveries found through hard work. Always ask lots of questions; this will help your teacher guide you better. Then take the answers you are given and work with them. If the answers lead to more questions, you are on the right track! My teacher, Richard Killmer, is credited with saying something like, "No one has ALL of the truth, but everyone has some of it." There is truth waiting for you in the practice room that no one else can give you. I hope you find it and share it.

GO to the Boulder Bach Festival!

2010-03-04T14:10:00.000-08:00

The Boulder Bach Festival features legendary oboist Joseph Robinson tomorrow and Saturday. I am not sure how it happened that I didn't have any personal interaction with Mr. Robinson until last November, but I am sure glad I finally did! He is a pleasant person to talk to, and shares a lot of insight and attitude that I admire very much. He has lived an interesting life, and does not hesitate to laugh at the absurd moments (which every oboist faces at some point!) and relish the poignant ones for the enjoyment of all. He demonstrated this handily at his class at CU Boulder on Tuesday, along with some very illustrative and moving interpretations of standard repertoire and excerpts. It is easy to hear the greatness that made him a fixture of the New York Philharmonic for many years. I hope to have the opportunity to hear him teach students in a masterclass setting sometime in the near future! Peter Cooper suggested this interview which I now recommend to you. I am so disappointed that I can't attend the Boulder Bach Festival concerts this weekend, but hope that you will enjoy them doubly on my behalf!

Goosebumps

2010-02-06T05:40:00.000-08:00

There is so much to love about this clip, from the simple perfection of the music itself to the sublime performance by two of my favorite female singers. Thanks to Patty over at oboeinsight for posting!

Translation (found at Edelweiss):

Sull'aria . . .
On the breeze . . .
Che soave zeffiretto . . .
What a gentle zephyr . . .
Zeffiretto . . .
Zephyr . . .
Questa sera spirera!
Will sigh this evening!
Questa sera spirera . . .
Will sigh this evening . . .
Sotto i pini del boschetto.
Beneath the pine grove.
Sotto i pini?
Beneath the pines?
Sotto i pini del boschetto . . .
Beneath the pine grove . . .
Ei gia il resto capira.
He will understand the rest.
Certo, certo il capira.
Certainly, he'll understand.
Ei gia il resto capira.
He will understand the rest.
Canzonetta sull'aria . . . etc.
Little tune on the breeze . . . etc.

Random clip for the day

2009-11-06T12:39:00.000-08:00

You'll never hear me telling a student that grades don't matter, or that they shouldn't go to college or graduate school or even that they shouldn't become insurance salesmen. After all, my father is an insurance salesman precisely because it allows him to do the things he enjoys most, both at work and everywhere else. But I hope my students don't miss out on their experiences because they think they only matter as a means to an end. Don't dedicate your life to something unless the process is just as enjoyable as the potential outcome.

CD available online!

2009-10-05T18:35:00.000-07:00

The Mountain Music Duo's debut album "Summer Play" is now available online! Click here to order. The digital files have not yet appeared on iTunes and other digital media sites, but I will update this post when they do!

***UPDATE***
The album is now available on iTunes, and coming soon to Amazon, Rhapsody, and more!

Fun!

2009-09-23T13:35:00.001-07:00

I have to admit that since I spend 99% of my practice time trying to cultivate the most beautiful sound possible on this finicky instrument called the oboe, sometimes it is fun to honk out some really raucous MULTIPHONICS. Prior to today, I had only memorized one, but then I found this great article which describes several! The links to fingering charts is particularly helpful, and I have found some new favorites. Happy honking!

On summer's end...

2009-08-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

It was foggy as I left the Rocky Ridge master class - a sight rare in Colorado, especially in July! The students all played wonderfully and I think we had a great class.

Don't forget about the Mountain Music Duo's DEBUT CD RELEASE PARTY coming up on August 28! We previewed some of the tunes at Erie Community Library.

It is also back-to-school time, and time to sign up for private lessons if you haven't already!

You can leave a comment on this post for more information, or email me at tenly [dot] williams [at] gmail [dot] com.

Masterclass at Rocky Ridge

2009-07-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

Rocky Ridge Music Center was the site of my first multi-week summer music camp. I had a blast! Now things have come full circle, and I will teach a masterclass there at 9:30 AM on July 29.

Also, be on the lookout for the Mountain Music Duo's new album, Summer Play, which will be available both digitally and materially before our CD release party on August 28! Visit tenly.blogspot.com for more information!

Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T15:29:00.000-07:00

I haven't always been a fan of Michael Jackson. Like many great artists, he was a troubled man who experienced highs and lows the rest of us probably can't truly imagine. His artistic contributions challenged stereotypes, revolutionized music and dance, and paved a path for subsequent artists and activists. His messages are powerful, and I appreciate them more each time I encounter them.

Michael Jackson - New Music - More Music Videos

This video reminded me of the final paragraph of Dr. Karl Paulnack's welcome address to students of the Boston Conservatory, which should be read in its entirety and is available here. He writes, "If there is a future of peace for humankind... I expect it will come from the artists..."

How do you know when to clap?

2009-06-22T21:20:00.000-07:00

Another gem from oboeinsight answers the question with humor! Confusion about when to clap should never keep anyone from attending classical concerts; there will always be a clapper there who prides himself in being the first!

Too fun NOT to share!

2009-05-28T16:55:00.000-07:00

A video featuring the oboe d'amore (literal translation: oboe of love), an instrument larger (and thus lower) than the oboe but smaller (and thus higher) than the English horn. Each instrument has its own totally unique timbre.

Thanks to Oboeinsight (see link on the right) for posting!

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

2009-04-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

The fabulous oboe studio of Christa Garvey (right) at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire after my recital there in March.

Summer oboe lessons in Denver!

2009-04-08T10:27:00.000-07:00

Get a head start on next year's auditions and musical challenges by taking private oboe lessons over the summer! Study with a full-time, professional performer and educator who will put your priorities first. Lessons are available in Denver (Washington Park area) and also in Boulder and Lafayette, Colorado. All ages and abilities are welcome, but a commitment to practice between lessons is required. Lessons on English horn are also available, and all lessons may include help making oboe and English horn reeds upon request. Contact Tenly at 303-910-2718 or tenlyoboe@gmail.com to schedule!

Radio Broadcast

2009-04-03T07:37:00.000-07:00

***BREAKING NEWS***

Tune in for an encore broadcast of the Mountain Music Duo performing Marcia Marchesi's "Ciranda" on KVOD 88.1 FM ***TONIGHT*** Friday, April 3 at approximately 8:40 PM (Mountain Time). You can even listen online!

Classes about reeds, excerpts, and entrepreneurship

2009-01-19T06:06:00.000-08:00

In the next eight weeks I will present three different types of classes at three higher education institutions.

The first, on January 27 at the University of Northern Colorado, will be my entrepreneurship class including tips on freelancing and gigging. Learn how to maximize your career potential whether you win auditions or not.

In February, I will present a reed making class at Augsburg College in Minneapolis. I have presented this class twice before in Colorado and am excited to expand to a larger audience!

In March, the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire will be the host for my reed making class as well as a traditional master class for excerpts and standard repertoire.

Hopefully there will be more in other regions of the country in the future! For more details on these classes in addition to concert and recital information, please visit tenly.blogspot.com. For more information, email tenly [dot] williams [at] gmail [dot] com.

Music in Cyberspace

2009-01-06T11:58:00.000-08:00

Live concerts on your computer... all the way from Berlin!

Also, YouTube presents the world's first collaborative online orchestra... brush up on those excerpts!

Public Radio

2008-12-21T07:27:00.000-08:00

First, a link for the season, an interview with John Rutter about Christmas Carols.

Second, a Colorado Matters segment regarding arts in schools.

Hopefully the links will work!

The Arts: Contributing to Denver's Economy

2008-11-21T18:56:00.000-08:00

"Denver's arts and cultural community created $1.69 billion in total economic activity in 2007, up 19% from 2005."

- Colorado Business Committee for the Arts

A lot has happened since my last post, especially regarding the economy. It is important to remember that while many arts organizations are not-for-profit, they contribute greatly to economic as well as cultural vitality. This is especially important with regards to arts education. I recently learned of a local orchestra's cancellation of educational concerts due to budget shortfalls. Not only will this impact the economy now, but the future health of Colorado's arts and economy.

Please consider donating to local arts organizations, or patronizing them generously during the holidays. Season tickets make great gifts! Take a friend to a concert or recital, *especially* if they have never experienced anything like it before.

Surf on over to Tenly's Blog and click around for some wonderful organizations that contribute to the health and vitality of Colorado's culture AND economy.

Don't Forget...

2008-10-18T20:23:00.000-07:00

... to check out Tenly's Blog for upcoming concerts, broadcasts, and more!

Excellent Advice

2008-10-18T20:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Oboeinsight for this post!

Reed Making Videos by Bob Atherholt

2008-09-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

The previews are free!

View them here!

It is back-to-school time, so this is my annual reminder that I teach oboe and English horn lessons in Denver (near the Broadway light rail station), Boulder (at Parlando School for the Arts), and Lafayette (at the Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts) in the beautiful state of Colorado. Email tenly.williams@gmail.com for more information.

Extended Techniques

2008-07-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

This has been a watershed summer for me in terms of expanding my technical skills. I have learned to circular breathe, flutter tongue, and even experienced a few seconds of singing while playing (although I wouldn't want to perform this in public just yet). I've always believed that one is never "done" learning music, and it is nice to have some new skills to add to the mix. Of course I will continue to hone these skills along with others and try to remember that even goals that have baffled me for years can be achieved! I highly recommend using the "easy button" for positive reinforcement!

I admit it.

2008-06-27T09:20:00.001-07:00

The Tuning CD changed my life. Listening to the CD would probably drive most people completely mad, but playing with it has become an essential, almost meditative part of my practice routine. I highly recommend it, and highly recommend using it in such a way (with headphones or when no one else is around) that those you care about will not resort to sabotage to save their own sanity!

Sightreading genie!

2008-06-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

I just found this great tool for sightreading skills! Oboists, pick an example that has only one melodic line, or just play the top note throughout, then listen to the musical example and pick out the part you just played!

Also check out the rhythm gym!

This football star plays the oboe...

2008-02-04T07:27:00.000-08:00

So should you!

Chester Pitts Superbowl Ad WITH OBOE

If you watch the "Behind the Scenes" footage of the making of the ad, Chester clarifies that he had *plenty* of dreams and achievements when he was playing the oboe as an electrical engineering major in college. Chester, you are my new hero!

Lessons now offered at Parlando School for the Arts in Boulder!

2007-12-12T06:20:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to join the faculty of the Parlando School for the Arts in Boulder! A welcome party will begin at 6:15 p.m. on Monday, December 17 in the Recital Hall located on the Southwest corner of the Dairy Center for the Arts, 2590 Walnut St. in Boulder. I will perform a few solos and there will be refreshments for all. Students will be able to meet me and sign up for lesson times beginning in January. Please come and join the celebration!

Performance Anxiety

2007-10-28T06:20:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine from college wrote up this outline on performance anxiety. I think it offers some good advice.

Thanks, Trevor!

Lesson Locations Updated

2007-08-27T11:41:00.000-07:00

Oboe lessons are available in Denver at the Broadway Music School and now also in Lafayette at the Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts! You can schedule weekly lessons by contacting these Colorado community music schools directly.

Inspiration

2007-08-11T14:09:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of performances that make me want to get back in the practice room and try those excerpts a few more times:

Chris Bliss on YouTube
Anthony Gatto on YouTube

The first is inspiring because I love the artistry and timing of it. Simple. Beautiful.

The second is inspiring because it shows a legend educating, performing, having fun. Love it.

Freeware Metronomes

2007-08-02T06:23:00.000-07:00

I just realized last week that freeware metronomes are available online! I still think it is good to have one that you can carry with you, but I downloaded this one in order to have access to the "tap feature" which I use to find out the tempo of a particular recording. I chose it because it was the first one I found that was Mac compatible. There are even more options for PC users.

No Comment...

2007-07-07T15:15:00.000-07:00

Another gem from Garrison Keillor which needs no introduction:

Summer Music Camp

Be sure to click "Listen" instead of reading the script!

Opera on YouTube

2007-06-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

I am excited that opera is top rated for the month on YouTube!

Paul sings Nessun Dorma

Online fingering charts for oboe

2007-06-08T16:44:00.000-07:00

Lost your fingering chart? Got a tricky tremolo?

Click Here!

Use the "basic" fingerings whenever possible.

Another EXPERT oboe interview

2007-04-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

Tune in to hear the latest oboe sensation, Liang Wang of the New York Philharmonic.

Oboist Liang Wang: His Reeds Come First

Tips from an EXPERT!

2007-04-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

I just found this lovely site which allows you to listen to expert oboist Rebecca Henderson any time, day or night! My current favorite is "Melody."

Locations

2007-04-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

Tenly teaches private lessons in Denver. Arrangements can be made for other areas of Colorado if three or more students in the area are interested in coordinating schedules for lessons. Alternatively, mileage may be added to the lesson fee for a single student unable to come to Denver for lessons.

Recommended Listening

2006-10-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

WEST SIDE STORY (in its entirety) by Leonard Bernstein

CONCERTO FOR OBOE by W. A. Mozart
CONCERTO FOR OBOE by Richard Strauss

"...is but a dream"
Rebecca Henderson, oboe

Stern and Zuckerman: Double Violin Concertos
with Richard Killmer, oboe

The 100 most important American musical works of the 20th century

Required Materials

2006-08-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

A working oboe
Swab for cleaning (silk is preferable, but cotton is okay)
Vaseline or cork grease
3 or more working reeds at all times
A small canister for soaking reeds in water (or a regular water bottle)
A music stand for practicing at home
An inexpensive metronome/tuner (such as the Boss TU80 for $26)
Sheet Music and Method books as assigned
A large folder and/or three-ring binder for handouts and music
Pencils and erasers
A small mirror (optional)

Most materials are available from local music stores such as Kolacny Music or by mail order from Midwest Musical Imports.

Cancellation Policy

2006-08-23T14:32:00.000-07:00

If a lesson needs to be cancelled or rescheduled, a minimum of 24 hours notice is required (emergencies excepted). Please call my cell phone so that I will receive notice of any schedule changes promptly. If it is late at night, email may be the best option.