Make Music Research Easier with Tune Utility Staff and TAB Stencils
Engaging in music research has become an integral aspect of my musical journey, as I continuously explore avenues to enhance my composition, theory, learning, technique, and performance knowledge. Several years ago, I initiated the practice of consolidating my research within the confines of an iPad app called Goodnotes. The app's unique feature of creating "notebooks" appealed to me initially.
However, my allegiance to Goodnotes waned over the past year due to an update that complicated backup access and an inability to address sign-in issues with the app's developers. This created a dilemma as it hindered my ability to seamlessly access my accumulated data on various devices, instigating a sense of vulnerability concerning the safety of my over 1,500 pages of painstakingly compiled research.
Realizing the potential pitfalls of relying solely on a digital platform, especially one with uncertain customer support, I made a conscious decision to transition back to traditional pen and paper. The prospect of safeguarding my research from potential app discontinuation or developer unavailability became a paramount concern.
Opting for the antiquated charm of pen and paper, I acknowledged the enduring archival qualities of tangible documents. Moreover, studies suggesting that physically writing information aids in its retention further fueled my decision.
During the transition, I encountered a few crucial considerations. Selecting durable paper with a weight of at least 40 lbs ensured that my research would withstand repeated use without ink bleed or wear. Likewise, choosing the right pen was paramount; the permanence and deliberate nature of penmanship proved to be conducive to contemplative writing—a practice I found beneficial for my music-related endeavors.
Contrary to expectations, I eschewed traditional music manuscript paper with pre-drawn staves. Instead, I embraced the flexibility of blank paper, allowing me to incorporate music staves where needed, facilitating a personalized organizational structure.
My initial exploration into tools for creating music staves on blank paper led me to encounter a couple of intriguing options. One was a rolling stamp, and the other, a device equipped with five petite pencils designed to draw the lines of the staff.
“Tune Utility’s stencils became an indispensable part of my daily routine.”
However, my enthusiasm waned as I delved into the intricacies of these devices. The prospect of relying on the small pencils or pens within the second device seemed riddled with potential pitfalls. The inherent margin of error and the anticipated maintenance involved in managing these diminutive writing instruments dissuaded me from considering them as viable solutions for my meticulous music notation needs.
Turning my attention to the rolling stamp, I embarked on a thorough investigation. Regrettably, my findings revealed a significant drawback: the potential inconsistency in the straightness of the staff lines. This posed a considerable limitation, especially when envisaging scenarios where I needed to write multiple staves in close proximity, such as when transcribing for a piano or a string section. The inherent imprecision in the rolling stamp's performance cast doubts on its suitability for the level of precision and alignment required in such contexts.
After exploring various tools, I stumbled upon Tune Utility's handmade music-staff stencils, crafted by Thomas Evelyn. These stencils offered distinct advantages, including the ability to use a preferred pen or pencil, precise control over stave alignment, and minimal maintenance.
Tune Utility also offers options for width and height. The height options allow the use of various sizes of pen tips.
Tune Utility's stencils became an indispensable part of my daily routine. Crafted from either Birch plywood or MDF, they provided the perfect balance of durability and customization. The stencils not only expedited the process of creating music staves but also elevated the overall quality of my handwritten research.
Thomas Evelyn's meticulous craftsmanship extends to personalized stencils and even specialized options such as the TAB stencil, which aligns seamlessly with my guitar-centric research.
Incorporating the Tune Utility Staff Stencil into my daily practice routine has proven to be a subtle yet powerful enhancement. Starting each day with focused practice, research, and composition alongside a cup of cappuccino, I've noticed a tangible improvement in my comprehension and retention of researched ideas.
This shift to pen, paper, and a reliable stencil has not only provided a tangible safeguard against digital uncertainties but has also become a catalyst for more thoughtful engagement with my musical pursuits. The Tune Utility Staff Stencil, in essence, has transcended its role as a mere tool; it has become an essential companion in the meticulous construction of my musical skills and knowledge. I wholeheartedly recommend incorporating regular research, documentation, and the use of pen, blank paper, and a quality stencil into one's musical routine. The subtle shift in the medium has undeniably made a significant difference in my material retention and overall musical development.
