The Art of Baroque Trumpet Playing: Volume 1: Basic Exercises

by Edward H. Tarr (Composer)

(Schott). The three volumes of The Art of Baroque Trumpet Playing are a summary by the renowned author and performer of his pioneering efforts and many years of experience as lecturer and teacher of this historical brass instrument at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis. Though conceived mainly for players of Baroque or natural trumpets, they are also essential reading for players of modern valve instruments who aim for an enlightened approach to Baroque performance practice. The varied exercises and pieces, some taken from 19th-century methods, add up to a systematic course of tuition helping to solve all technical and musical problems, particularly those connected with ensemble playing. Text in German and English

128 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1999

Reviews

[Kevin Orrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

So that’s how they did it without valves!

Having played trumpet almost everyday since 5th grade, I’ve never looked closely at how the trumpet was played before valves. Now that I’m 60 years old, it’s about time to learn about the early masters of brass.
Natural trumpets are a fascinating way to build up quality technique as well as to apprciate just how skillful our trumpet playing forfathers were.
My recommendation would be to purchase an inexpensive natural trumpet (I have a plastic BfB natural trumpet from Austin Custom Brass that cost less than $200), then have ball playing through this book. Who knows, if you like playing valve free, you may end up playing a more expensive naturl brass axe!