Concert Band & Orchestra Methods

Teachers keep coming back to the Accent on Achievement series across all beginning band instruments: the B-flat Clarinet, Trumpet, Flute, Alto Saxophone, and Trombone books all move students through material at a consistent pace with embedded online audio support. The Measures of Success Clarinet and Trumpet books by Deborah A. Sheldon and Strictly Strings Book 1 by Jacquelyn Dillon are widely adopted in school programs. Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 2 by Peter Boonshaft and Bob Phillips serves teachers working with string ensembles at the intermediate level.

Strictly Strings, Book 2: Digital Audio Download by Jacquelyn Dillon became available in 2026, giving teachers a digital option for string students ready to advance.

John O'Reilly created the Accent on Achievement series, one of the most consistent entry points for beginning band students across multiple instruments. His systematic approach to sequencing and the inclusion of online audio resources have made these books foundational in countless music programs.

Peter Boonshaft is recognized as one of the most influential voices in music education today, with invitations to speak and conduct across the country and internationally. He serves as Director of Education for Jupiter Band Instruments and is the first recipient of the George M. Parks Award for Leadership in Music Education from the National Association for Music Education.

Bob Phillips has spent his career innovating string pedagogy, authoring over 25 book series for classroom use including all six levels of Sound Innovations. His work with large group instruction and eclectic string styles has shaped how thousands of string students learn each year.

James D. Ployhar holds one of the most extensive publication records in music education, with over 800 credited works including the Contemporary Band Course, now published by Alfred Music and in use internationally.