The Owl (Apr 2018)
Masterful Rehearsal: An Analysis of the Work of James Edwin Croft
Abstract
In the American wind band community, the legacy of James Edwin Croft (Director of Bands, Emeritus, The Florida State University) as a teacher, conductor, and pedagogue is formidable. The purpose of this document is to offer insight on this legacy, specifically by analyzing transferable teaching elements including score study principles, rehearsal pacing/structure, and gestural philosophy. Specific quotes from Croft relating to certain elements of teaching augment this study with an abridged biography. These resources are offered in response to the fact that few public records exist which document the late Dr. Croft’s teaching. This document, when coupled with the discussed rehearsal recordings, should serve as a useful guide for teachers seeking to learn from a master teacher.
