Nuvo WindStars

Introducing Nuvo WindStars

The WindStars course by Nuvo is a holistic, “whole child” music education method in three levels which can be used to explore the range of Nuvo Instruments. Perfect for primary schools, instrument teachers, and music hubs looking for a fully prepared course for their students.

Chamberlain Music prides itself on being a keen supporter of the Nuvo Instrumental range of instruments and specialist supplier to the education sector both in the UK and internationally. We have Nuvo instruments and WindStars books in stock and available for sale now.

Level 1 “Sound Before Sight”

Suitable for ages 5-9 (Key Stage 1), this first level can be used with the Dood, Toot, Recorder and Recorder+ models. During this learning journey students will pick up general music basics as well as woodwind skills, with simple tunes written down in traditional or iconic notation. No previous musical experience is required.

Level 2 “Instrument Essentials”

This level moves on from the basics mastered in WindStars 1 or general music education. Instrumental skills are expanded upon and musical ensemble playing is gently introduced mostly in unison. The instrumentation for this stage is jSax, jFlute, student flute, jHorn and Clarineo, with the jHorn being printed in treble or bass clef editions. The target age range for this level is 6-10 years, Key Stages 1 and 2.

Level 3 “Pre-Band Ensemble”

Once again featuring the jSax, jFlute, student flute, jHorn and Clarineo, this final instalment of the flexible pre-band general music teaching method is aimed at 7-10 year olds, Key Stages 1 and 2. Throughout this level greater emphasis is placed on independent playing as part of a layered ensemble. The pieces featured in this stage are sourced from a wide variety of genres. Dynamics and chromatic notes are also introduced.

Features include:
Bespoke learning path and lesson plan for whole-class use of Nuvo instruments
Additional online audio and video supporting content
High quality, affordable instruments for full class tuition including First Access / Wider Opportunities projects
Instruments are easily cleaned with warm soapy water, ideal for school settings and inspiring good hygiene habits
Covers the five elements of music: rhythm/tempo, pitch/tone, melody/harmony, structure, and expression

About Nuvo WindStars

Founded by Yorkshiremen Max Clissold and Graham Lyons (inventor of the Lyons C Clarinet), Nuvo has been producing musical instruments since the original Clarineo C-clarinet first arrived in 2009. Over the years the instrument range has expanded to include flutes, beginner wind instruments Dood and Toot, recorders, the jSax and most recently the jHorn. This latest addition marks Nuvo’s first venture into the world of brass playing, a revolutionary instrument that offers a number of possible embouchures and allows players to gravitate towards different areas of the brass family.

Teaching has always been a key inspiration for the instrument range, and after the download series of Play It Today titles it made perfect sense for Nuvo to develop the WindStars curriculum. During the process, music education professionals from all walks of life have consulted and contributed to make the series what it is – a fully formed blueprint to Nuvo playing which can then lead directly on to band, ensemble and orchestral studies for the young musicians passing through the levels.

Nuvo’s instruments have always been associated with bright colours, eye catching looks and stylish cases, so it seems fitting that the layout of the WindStars tutor series has the same aesthetic appeal. Capturing the attention of young musicians is at least half the battle, as a WindStars class teacher you have a powerful ally on your side here!

We have a couple of suggested class packs for WindStars 1 and WindStars 2, but the great thing about this course is the degree of flexibility that teachers have in terms of voicing their ensembles and meeting the needs of their students year after year.