
The Hal Leonard Corporation has established itself over the last 60 years as the largest music print publisher in the world. From piano sheet music to instructional guitar DVDs to songbooks featuring popular artists, they extend into every genre and instrument. For classicalmusicians, popular musicians, children, and amateurs alike, Hal Leonard is a one-stop resource for sheet music, music instruction, and much more.
The company was founded in 1947. The corporation was named after two brothers who had been part of a popular dance band. Harold, “Hal,” Edstrom and Everett, “Leonard,” Edstrom performed under the name Hal Leonard after their disapproving father forbade them from associating their band with the family name. Initially they produced sheet music and other instructional materials. In the 1950s they introduced The Pointer System for organs which soon became the best selling organ guide ever. The success of The Pointer System led to its expansion for the guitar and the piano.
In the company’s early years, they put a strong emphasis on producing band and choral music. In the 1970s they introduced their audio music and books which quickly caught on as effective ways to learn instruments. Around this time, Hal Leonard’s Guitar Method was introduced integrating popular music into music instruction. Other time honored lines include the Essential Elements brand. In addition to the CD and book, many of these products now include a DVD which offers short video lessons and extensive software. For example, the Essential Elements 2000 Plus DVD for Strings Violin Book has SmartMusic software, tempo adjustment software, and a Music Listening Library. Among the most widely used methods for saxophone is the Rubank Elementary Model. These products teach the saxophone using a balanced approach with lots of scales, arpeggios, and technical studies.
Hal Leonard also provides an extensive line of popular sheet music with everything from the Lion King soundtrack to Alicia Keyes songs. Hal Leonard offers the greatest collection of sheet music and instructional materials. Trust their products the next time you want to try a new instrument or learn to play your favorite popular tunes.