School Band & Orchestra + THE GLOBAL VOICE OF MUSIC EDUCATORS
School Band & Orchestra +

Independent News Publication of artistpro Media Daily Global Reporting for Music Educators Since 1998 Publisher of School Band & Orchestra +

New Products

New Products

New Products

Print & Digital

“Choose Kindness”

Choose Kindness  by Tyler Arcari, comes in concert band, string orchestra, and full orchestra versions (same key) making it an ideal piece to combine winds and strings in a variety of combinations. This gorgeous piece is a great showcase for combining ensembles.

ExcelciaMusic.com

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Introducing BandLab for Education 2.0

BandLab Technologies announced the launch of BandLab for Education 2.0, the next evolution of its award-winning music creation platform for schools, built to support the way music is taught and made today. Available at $2.50 per student per year, with free access for eligible Title I schools in the US and comparable support in other markets, 2.0 is designed to put professional music creation within reach of any classroom.
A Studio built for next-generation classrooms
At the core of BandLab for Education 2.0 is BandLab Studio, the same recording and production DAW used by over 100 million creators worldwide, from beginners to chart-topping artists. For 2.0 it’s been rebuilt and further optimized to run lighter and faster across the technology schools already use, including Chromebooks, Macs, and Windows devices, so students can spend more time focused on making music.
A simpler way for teachers to set and share assignments
BandLab for Education 2.0 also introduces an all-new BandLab for Education file format that makes assignments easier for teachers to create, manage, and reuse.

Edu.BandLab.com

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 Percussion Plus Publishes 2026 Edition of The Beatlife Book

Percussion Plus announces the publication of the 2026 edition of The Beatlife Book: Playing & Teaching Samba, the popular educational resource by professional percussionists and workshop leaders Stuart Hardcastle and Chris Preston.

BeatLife.co.uk

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MakeMusicShop

MakeMusic, the company behind MakeMusic Cloud and MakeMusic Shop, today announced the launch of MakeMusic Shop, a new digital sheet music storefront built specifically for music educators. MakeMusic Shop allows educators to browse, purchase, and instantly access digital sheet music in one place with more choices, better file management, and no licensing guesswork. 

MakeMusic Shop is available today. To celebrate the launch, all shoppers receive 15% off their first digital sheet music purchase with the code ShopLaunch15. Active MakeMusic Cloud subscribers receive an enhanced discount of 25% off all purchases (automatically applied at checkout with no coupon code required) as an exclusive benefit of their subscription.

Educators and institutions interested in volume purchasing, district licensing, or purchase order options are encouraged to contact the MakeMusic sales team

Shop.MakeMusic.com

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Hal Leonard Releases Beginning Guitar and Beyond Method

Hal Leonard has released Beginning Guitar & Beyond: From First Lessons to Practical Guitar Skills, a new collection designed to meet the needs of today’s beginning guitarists while providing retailers with a product that delivers lasting value well beyond the introductory level.
Beginning Guitar & Beyond offers dealers a premium instructional resource that combines the convenience of online video with the proven effectiveness of printed music. The all-in-one format provides an attractive alternative to piecemeal instructional purchases while helping build customer confidence and long-term satisfaction.
HalLeonard.com

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Accessories

Teamware Collection

Whether traveling, warming up, or performing, show your spirit with McCormick’s Teamwear. Select from 9 unique product options to create your custom look.

McCormicksNet.com

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Setup for Success

Don’t know about you, but for us, string-change time is the perfect moment to appreciate your guitar for the amazing tool/work-of-art/companion that it is.

​What do you need to make the most of that moment?

Stringjoy Precision Workstation Bundle

Our Finish-Safe Cork Neck Rest provides stable, finish-safe support for your instrument’s most vulnerable contact point so you can tackle string-changes, setups, cleaning, and maintenance without frustration or worry.

​The Stringjoy Precision Work Mat is more than just a bit of padding. It’s got pro-recommended action settings and a collection of FAQs covering relief, intonation, and pickup height. So, whether you’re a setup novice or a seasoned pro, you won’t have to look stuff up every step of the way (trust us… we’ve been there!).

StringJoy.com

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Sound Vibrations Collection

The instruments in the collection have been designed in collaboration with Karen-Renée Robb, visual and vocal artist and founder of The Music City Alliance for Sound & Music Healing and Frame Drum Wisdom. They feature Robb’s original artwork designs. The collection includes large and small rainmaker sticks, three 16” Shaman Drums, four 16” Frame Drums, and a 16” and 14” Ocean Drums.

LPmusic.com

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Proel Launches Pro1991 Series Microphone Stands

Proel has launched the PRO1991 series, a line of microphone stands engineered to withstand the challenges of professional audio environments. The series is designed to handle extreme vibrations, daily transport and quick setups through specific construction solutions.

Every model in the PRO1991 series features high-quality die-cast aluminum parts that are lightweight yet durable enough to resist impacts during tours. The heavy-duty adjustable joint includes ergonomically colored knobs to facilitate precise adjustments and secure tightening even under stress. Anylon and fiberglass sleeve provides enhanced grip for a firm hold without slipping.

For stability, the series offers enhanced steel tubes, with a full steel version available for optimal resistance against vibrations and wind when supporting heavy microphones. Base configurations include a die-cast aluminum tripod base with foldable tubes for compact transport. This base features high-grade non-slip and anti-vibration rubber feet. Alternatively, a cast iron base with an anti-feedback ring is available. This base comes in a stackable version capable of grouping up to six poles to simplify storage and transport.

Proel.com

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Instruments

 

Magneto Launches New Models

Magneto has introduced several new models to their lineup, featuring the new Sonnet Supreme, the brand’s first-ever bass guitars, and updates to both the Starlux and Eric Gales signature models.

Leading the release is the new Sonnet Supreme (US-5000) – a premium addition based on the established Sonnet shape. Built with a basswood body and a distinctive figured top, the US-5000 blends refined aesthetics with performance-focused design.

A floating tremolo system, combined with staggered locking tuners and a bone nut, ensures excellent tuning stability and optimal string vibration. The roasted maple neck, finished in warm brown, is paired with a rosewood fingerboard for a smooth, responsive feel.

MagnetoGuitars.com

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Streamliner CVT Guitars

Gretsch has introduced the Streamliner CVT, available in Jet Black, Sea Foam Green, Aged White and Olive Drab finishes. The guitar features HotWire humbuckers, a Fast “C” neck profile, a pitch-corrected headstock angle and a compensated wraparound bridge. Gretsch designed the model to provide stable tuning, accessible playability and a lower-cost entry into the Streamliner collection.

Fender.com

 

Eastman’s EAS852 Alto Sax

Eastman Music Company announced the EAS852 52nd Street Alto Saxophone, the latest milestone in the 52nd Street professional saxophone lineup. The Eastman EAS852 represents the next evolution in the company’s professional saxophone lineup. Its development began with the celebrated ETS852 Tenor, created alongside saxophonist Bob Mintzer, which set benchmarks for body construction and neck design. Applying that philosophy to the alto, the EAS852 emerges as an instrument built for the demands of the working professional alto player.
Every element of the EAS852 has been refined for the professional player. Rolled-style tone holes enhance resonance, while the aged unlacquered brass finish contributes to warmth. Alarge bell amplifies projection, and braised bell construction unlocks greater depth across the range.
Central to the playing experience is the patented DS Mechanism, engineered for fluid key response and mechanical stability. Whether navigating fast passages in a jazz ensemble or sustaining long tones in a chamber setting, the mechanism ensures the instrument moves with the player. The instrument leverages a dual-neck system. Both the proven S-neck and the newly developed H-neck, are included. This versatility allows players to tailor response and tonal character to their style.
EastmanWinds.com

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Yamaha PSR-I610 Portable Keyboard

With 927 Voices and 392 accompaniment Styles, the PSR-I610 portable keyboard was created for world musicians. Intuitive controls like Live Control Knobs, Modulation and Pitch Bend wheels, and a clear LCD display screen, give you precise control and instant access to the sounds you need for seamless performances.

  • In addition to high-quality pianos and other world instrument Voices, the PSR-I610 features 50 Indian instrument Voices and 70 Indian Styles, covering a diverse range of Indian music
  • Powerful built-in speakers (12W x 2) and mic input support live performances. Elevate your sound even further by connecting to a PA system
  • Compact, lightweight design makes the PSR‑I610 easy to carry and ready for performances anywhere

ShopUSAYamaha.com

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