Chords, Scale Studies, Technical Exercises, & Arrangements for Wind Band
A comprehensive, ensemble-centered scale system for band that develops intonation, balance, technique, and harmonic awareness in all twelve major tonal centers.
Designed as a curriculum supplement, Mastering the Scales moves scale study out of isolation and into meaningful, musical application with the full ensemble.
The Problem With Most Scale Books
Most scale books focus on speed, range, and fingerings. They do very little to address how scales actually function in ensemble music.
Students can play scales accurately and still struggle with:
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Tuning chords
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Maintaining pitch center in unfamiliar keys
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Balancing within the ensemble
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Transferring technique into concert literature
As a result, scale time often feels disconnected from rehearsal outcomes.
Directors do not need students who can only play scales in isolation.
They need students who can hear, adjust, and perform within a tonal center!
Why Mastering the Scales Works
Each of the twelve major tonal centers in Mastering the Scales follows the same intentional structure, allowing directors to establish consistent routines while building comprehensive musicianship in every key.
Chord Progressions (I – vi – ii – V7 – I)
Every tonal center begins with a harmonic progression designed to establish pitch center and develop ensemble listening.
These chord progressions allow the band to focus on:
* Intonation within and across sections
* Balance and blend
* Tone consistency throughout the ensemble
* Vertical listening and pitch awareness
Directors are encouraged to rehearse chords individually before connecting the full progression, reinforcing careful listening and relaxed, resonant tone production.
Three Scale Exercises
Each tonal center includes three scale-based studies:
* A one-octave major scale
* An arpeggiated figure
* Stepwise patterned motion
These exercises develop flexibility and confidence while reinforcing key centers through familiar, effective patterns modeled after established pedagogical traditions.
Articulation is intentionally left open, allowing directors to vary styles, tonguing patterns, and dynamics based on ensemble needs.
Four Technical Exercises
Following the scale studies, students work through four technical exercises designed to expand facility beyond straight scalar motion.
These include:
* Non-scalar patterns such as alternating thirds
* Broken chord figures tied to functional harmony
* A transcription of Clarke Study No. 2 adapted for each tonal center
These studies promote fluidity, control, and consistency across registers while maintaining a strong connection to harmonic function.
Short Band Arrangement
Each tonal center concludes with a 12–16 measure full-band arrangement designed to apply technical and listening skills in a musical context.
These short pieces:
* Reinforce intonation, balance, and blend
* Encourage expressive ensemble playing
* Connect scale study directly to performance skills
By applying each key in an ensemble setting, students experience how technique supports musical communication.
Why This Structure Matters
By repeating this sequence in all twelve major tonal centers, Mastering the Scales builds consistency, confidence, and transferable musicianship. Students know what to expect, and directors can focus on listening, refinement, and musical growth rather than constant procedural explanation.
When scale study is connected to harmony and ensemble application, rehearsal fundamentals begin to improve consistently, not just occasionally.
Mastering the Scales is designed to produce changes directors can hear and feel in daily rehearsal.