Thoughts on brass pedagogy: an essay about teaching over competence borders.

This study is based on discussions among Swedish brass teachers about teaching other brass instruments than their main instrument. Why do some choose to teach only with the help of their main instrument while others use their secondary instruments as well? What are the advantages and disadvantages and how do they look upon other ways of thinking in this matter? In addition, the study examines brass teachers’ views on the balance between pedagogical and instrumental skill, as well as their views on teaching sound, technique and expression in relation to the age of the student. A questionnaire was used and anwered by 24 teachers with teaching experience in municipal music schools ranging from 7 months to 35 years. The results indicate that pedagogical skill is always important, whereas the importance of instrumental skill increases as the student gets older and more experienced. The advantage of teaching with the help of the main instrument is that one always keeps a high musical and technical level. However, the advantage of always using the instrument taught is that the student gets the right sound ideal. Sound, technique and expression all become more and more important as the student progresses. According to the survey, sound is regarded as the most important thing to work with on all levels, followed by technique and last, expression. The main part of the study is seen from a teacher perspective, however some student opinions are also included