Doug Yeo's Serpent Video

[J.c. Sherman]

For all you serpent/early music aficionados:

APPROACHING THE SERPENT:
AN HISTORICAL AND PEDAGOGICAL OVERVIEW
with
DOUGLAS YEO

Is now available! Go to http://www.yeodoug.com" target="_blank" target="_blank and have a look at the details. For those of you not in the know, Doug is one of the world's leading performers and proponents of the serpent. He's a recognized authority on the beasts, and this is a terrific opportunity to learn about the instrument and - perhaps - take up the instrument. Mine's already coming!

J.c.S.

(Disclaimer - this video does mention a product I manufacture for modern performance of serpent repertoire, but I have no direct financial stake in this video.)

[J.c. Sherman]

Okay, I've spent some time with this video, and I can add a few tidbits of info.

First, the video has some incredible historic instruments featured, with performances on nearly all, including Bass Cornett, Serpent Forveille, Cimbasso (my favorite!), and others. It's horn dorn on video!

Second, they are played masterfully!

Third, the lessons and duets are an absolute gas, and very helpful to those out there who are working on their serpent playing. It is actually quite helpful for ophicleiders too, as the lessons are also applicable to that instrument in most cases regarding embouchure focus, exercises, and dueting. Yes - you can play duets with Doug on the video, playing both parts. Very, very cool!

Fourth, all the musical examples, including excerpts, demonstrations, etudes and duets are included on the DVD ROM so you can print them out for your practice.

Finally (Note - shameless plug/conflict of interest/Bias coming) - There is a sound example and information to address the modern performance problems of Serpent parts when you don't have access to the instrument. It involves a mouthpiece, which has been several years in the making, to design and prepare for manufacture. It works very well!

J.c.S. (BTW - see your latest ITEA for more info!)

End shameless plug.