Belwin 21st Century Band Method, Level 2: Oboe Book

This method book sustains momentum from Level One while introducing meaningful repertoire that keeps students invested. The blend of classical pieces, world music, patriotic selections, and popular standards (Star Wars, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Sleigh Ride) creates a balanced diet that rewards practice with music students actually want to play. The inclusion of two commissioned concert works by respected composers gives students a genuine performance goal beyond exercises.

A musical bridge from beginner to intermediate, balancing structured technique with the joy of recognition. Students encounter familiar melodies alongside carefully crafted concert pieces, creating a sense of progress that feels both challenging and rewarding.

Oboe students who have completed Level One and are ready to expand their range and tackle more sophisticated rhythmic patterns and ensemble textures. This book suits students in concert band settings who benefit from the integrated percussion material and thrive when popular melodies are woven alongside classical foundations.

• Rotate between the popular standards and the classical/world music pieces to maintain student motivation across a full year of study.
• Use the multiple accompaniment options available on MakeMusic Cloud to explore different styles and interpretations of the same piece; this deepens listening skills and exposes students to arranging possibilities.
• Prioritize the two commissioned pieces (Celtic Air and Dance, and Destiny) as recital or concert repertoire; they represent the quality performance literature your oboe students should be prepared to execute.
• Assign scale studies in conjunction with the melodic material rather than in isolation; connect technical work to the keys and intervals students encounter in the songs they're learning.

Sequence the popular standards alongside concert band full-group rehearsals to maintain oboe student engagement during a long school year. The two commissioned pieces work beautifully as oboe solos or small ensemble features on a winter or spring concert. Use the CD and MakeMusic Cloud accompaniments to support sectional rehearsals during times when full band is not available.

• Extended range on oboe (expansion beyond Level One)
• Scale study in multiple keys
• Mixed and syncopated rhythmic patterns
• Ensemble intonation and balance in concert band texture
• Articulation and phrasing in both classical and contemporary styles
• Reading and performing from full-score accompaniment cues