WRITING · TEACHING · CRAFT
Perspectives
Reflections on the oboe, the practice of teaching, and the craft behind the sound.
Essays & publications
Original essays and analyses by M. Isaac Ripple, alongside writing published in Bandworld Magazine and The Double Reed, the journal of the International Double Reed Society. Explore complete web essays here, or follow the credited links to previously published articles.
Civil War Military Bands and Their Music: Function, Identity, and Legacy in Union and Confederate Traditions
A historical essay on military music as communication, ceremony, morale, and cultural memory, with a case study of the 26th North Carolina Regimental Band. Read the complete web essay, including notes and bibliography.
DOCTORAL RESEARCH · 2026
Dissertation
Open access
Aldo Faldi's 12 Brevi Studi Seriali and the Modern Solo Oboe Tradition
An examination of Faldi’s etudes as a bridge between technical study and contemporary solo oboe performance. The dissertation explores how serial studies can develop intervallic awareness, registral fluency, and the interpretive skills needed for post-tonal repertoire.
Available through the University of Memphis Electronic Theses and Dissertations Archive.
FUTURE WRITING
On the horizon
Ideas taking shape for future essays on teaching, performing, and building a thoughtful musical practice.
01
Pedagogy & Studio Practice
Applied instruction, curriculum, student development, assessment, and effective studio organization—building on my recent writing in The Double Reed.
02
Performance & Repertoire
Programming, contemporary repertoire, commissioning, collaborations, and preparing lesser-known works for performance.
03
The Oboist’s Workshop
Reedmaking, equipment, practice techniques, and the relationship between technical development and musical expression.
04
Research & Commentary
Accessible perspectives on scholarly work, emerging educational technologies, professional development, and questions shaping contemporary music education.
IN DEVELOPMENT
Planned essays
Working titles for forthcoming articles.
Beyond the Lesson: Building a More Intentional Instrumental Studio
Extending the conversation about studio organization and continuity between lessons.
The Place of New Music in the Modern Oboe Studio
Bringing contemporary repertoire into students’ musical development.
What We Teach When We Teach Reedmaking
The habits of listening, problem-solving, and independence behind the craft.
The Art of Commissioning: Building Relationships Through New Music
Collaboration and the creative relationships that bring new works to life.
Rethinking Documentation in Applied Music Instruction
Preserving feedback, tracking progress, and making reflection useful.
Programming with Purpose: Constructing a Cohesive Recital
Connecting repertoire through a clear artistic thread.