Belwin 21st Century Band Method, Level 2: CD

A well-sequenced accompaniment CD that actually motivates students to open their books. Bullock and Maiello understood that young musicians need diverse musical styles to stay engaged, and these arrangements transform isolated exercises into real musical experiences that feel worth playing repeatedly.

These accompaniments bring variety and personality to scale work and exercise patterns. Different musical styles appear throughout the CD, so students encounter rock grooves alongside swing rhythms and traditional concert band textures, making repetitive practice feel fresh and purposeful.

Band directors using Belwin 21st Century Band Method Level 2 with students in their first or second year of instrumental study. Wind players from trumpet and clarinet through tuba will find accompaniments written specifically for the exercises and progressions in their student books.

• Start with the accompaniment at a steady tempo to establish rhythmic security before students attempt the written part independently.
• Loop sections of the CD during sectional rehearsals so students can focus on one passage without stopping and restarting.
• Adjust playback speed slightly slower during early weeks so students can lock into the groove without rushing to keep pace.
• Encourage students to listen ahead to the next accompaniment before playing so they anticipate the style and character change.

Use this CD during rehearsal warm-ups and sectional practice sessions when students need to work through book material without a full ensemble present. It works equally well for individual practice at home, giving students the experience of playing in an ensemble even when practicing alone.

• Maintaining steady tempo while following an accompaniment
• Listening and blending with recorded ensemble textures
• Recognizing and responding to different musical styles and grooves
• Building confidence through repeated play-along experiences