We are currently in the process of preparing for publication a handbook designed for school band directors. The book is entitled "A DIRECTOR'S GUIDE TO EMERGENCY BAND INSTRUMENT REPAIR". It is a short, spiral-bound manual with an easy to use glossary that will make emergency repairs much more manageable for even the most mechanically challenged person. The book is not meant to take the place of your local repair person, but rather to get you through a tough spot long enough to give you time to take the instrument into the repair shop. We think you will enjoy the humorous and helpful way that we have presented this much-needed information. Below you will find endorsements from three people who hold great respect in the musical community and have read the manual. We hope to have the manual in publication in early 2006.

PATRICK WINTERS: DIRECTOR OF BANDS, EASTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

I am writing to add my endorsement to Robin Amend's book "Band Director's Guide to Emergency Instrument Repair." It is a much needed and useful tool for the busy band director. After seeing a draft copy, I am excited about the possibility of a text like this in widespread circulation. I can't tell you how many times I have found myself in a situation where a book like this one would have helped me enormously.

In addition, I feel this should be required reading for use in college instrumental methods and techniques classes. It is a pleasure to recommend and endorse Robin's text.

GARWOOD WHALEY: PRESIDENT of MEREDITH MUSIC PUBLICATIONS

...I have reviewed your manuscript on emergency instrument repair. The book is a delight to read and your incorporation of humor with a wealth of information is unique.

MEL CLAYTON: FORMER PRESIDENT of MENC: The National Association for Music Education

It is with pleasure that I recommend Robin Amend's new project regarding practical applications to music instrument repair.

As a junior high and high school band and orchestra teacher myself for twenty-five years, and serving as a district music supervisor for the past ten years, I of course have 'lived the life' of amateur music instrument repair. Instrumental music teachers are faced daily with challenges exactly like those described in Robin's words. Through the years I have read several publications from authors in areas of instrument repair, the majority of which were far too detailed and many were obviously written to serve as college text books. Unfortunately, in most cases, these same books were of little use for my daily needs. I have not read any document that is as fundamental and easy to read as Robin's.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Robin's work for many years. He is respected throughout Eastern Washington and neighboring states as truly a 'band director's repairman'. Through the years, he has proven dependable, honest, affordable, and accepts challenges in the area of repair, regardless of the size of the demand. His dedication to writing this book is the result of many years of practical work knowledge, and comes also at the request of several music educators who have prompted him to complete this task.