Accent on Achievement, Book 1: Baritone T.C. Book & CD

Accent on Achievement Book 1 cuts through the noise of method book monotony by integrating genuine repertoire from the start. The full-color layout keeps beginning baritone players visually engaged across 48 pages, while the built-in CD accompaniment lets students hear themselves in context immediately, which transforms isolated exercises into actual musical experiences.

Opening these pages feels like stepping into a real ensemble from day one. The colorful design and recognizable melodies from world music and classical sources make the baritone feel like a valued member of something larger, even when practicing alone with the CD.

Beginning band baritone players in grades 5 and up who need structured daily practice materials with immediate musical payoff. Teachers introducing students to concert band instrumentation will appreciate how the method scaffolds fundamentals without sacrificing musical content.

• Play along with the included CD to internalize ensemble sound and intonation; the accompaniment lets you focus on your own part without the pressure of live ensemble coordination.
• When tackling the rhythm and rest exercises, count out loud with the recorded pulse to cement the connection between notation and time.
• Use the progressive scale exercises to establish consistent embouchure and airflow before moving on to the full band arrangements.
• In the chorales, shape phrases by listening for the harmonic movement in the accompaniment rather than playing mechanically measure by measure.

Move through Book 1 during the first year of band instruction, using the 11 full band arrangements as performance pieces for fall and winter concerts. The embedded review cycle means students won't need supplementary materials to maintain earlier concepts while learning new ones.

• Reading in treble clef on a five-line staff with accidentals
• Coordinating tongue articulation with steady air support across dynamic ranges
• Counting mixed meters and rhythmic notation including rests
• Matching intonation and blend within an ensemble texture using recorded accompaniment as reference
• Executing major scales and foundational fingering patterns with consistent tone quality