Good Tone is necessary in order that one's playing be pleasing to the listener as well as the player. Good tone can be produced only when the instrument is in good playing condition, equipped with the correct type of mouthpiece and played with the correct embouchure.
Intonation: When two successive tones of different pitch are produced, it is necessary that each tone be in tune with the other, relative to the interval being played.
Tune: The player must develop and train his/her ear so that a different pitch can be distinguished when playing with others.
Note Values: The player must develop a rhythmic sense so as to give proper value to tones as represented by the written notes.
Breathing and Phrasing: Each is usually dependent on the other. Since teachers of wind instruments differ on the methods of breathing, no special method is advocated, but it soon becomes evident to all players that in order to get good musical phrasing, it is necessary to breath properly and in the proper places of a composition. It will be to the pupil's advantage to spend much time and effort on this phase of playing and take seriously all suggestions given by the teacher.
Expression Marks: Expression marks in music are considered just as important as punctuation in prose and poetry. Good phrasing is the performance of music that has been properly punctuated. Expression marks put character into a mass of notes and if properly observed, will produce satisfying musical effects.
Relaxation and Proper Position of Body and Hands: Whether playing in standing or sitting position, it is necessary that the body be erect and relaxed. Relaxation is the secret to the accomplishment of success in many other professions and trades. The arms must be relaxed, the elbows away from the body and the hands assuming a restful position on the instrument.
Sufficient Time for Practice: Since different pupils require different types and lengths of practice periods, the objective that every pupil should establish is: "I will master the assigned task whether it takes 1/2 or 2 hours." The accomplishment of a task is far more important than the time that it consumes.
Proper Care of the Instrument: Carelessness in the handling of an instrument is the most prevalent handicap to the progress of young players. No pupil can expect to produce good results if the instrument is in poor playing condition. The instrument must be handled carefully and when a disorder is discovered, have it remedied immediately. Constant attention as to the condition of an instrument will pay dividends in the end.
Mental Attitude of the Teacher and the Pupil: In order that the musical results be satisfactory, both the pupil and the teacher must be interested in their task, and must have a perfect understanding of what the task is. The Teacher must understand the learning capacities of the pupil so that the pupil in turn will get the type and amount of instruction that he/she will understand and be able to master.