Review

Michael Davis
20 minute Warm-up Routine:

New York, NY, United States
Publisher: Hip-Bone Music, Inc.
Date of Publication: 2006

Method book with compact disc

Primary Genre: Study Material - method
Secondary Genre: Study Material - etude

New York trombonist and entrepreneur Michael Davis leads a productive musical life since his emergence from the Eastman School. Since the mid 1990’s he has performed with legends of the music and entertainment industry, recorded critically acclaimed projects, founded Hip-Bone Music and published compositions, arrangements and several books for brass players. 20 minute Warm-up Routine follows his 15 minute Warm-up Routine both in concept and organization but is more advanced. 15 exercises are given that cover all the fundamental skills required in fine trombone playing. The exercises typically consist of a phrase given 6-13 times, once on each slide position, or perhaps once on each chromatic step within the compass of a fourth or octave. A concise introduction explains that his goal in this routine is to refine sound, time and pitch. No dynamics are given. Instead, Davis directs us to vary dynamics in order to heighten the effects of the exercises and be sensitive to embouchure condition on any given day. Scales are conspicuously absent but about half the exercises involve large interval leaps based on arpeggiations; several involve chromaticism reflecting sophisticated melodic devices associated with modern jazz and commercial music. These are challenging and interesting insights into Davis’ musical mind because they represent sounds he considers important.

The compact disc, a standard feature of Hip-Bone publications, contains studio generated accompaniments. Davis demonstrates an ideal performance of each exercise in the first 15 tracks, then we get 15 more tracks minus trombone. The trombone line is doubled by bass and other instruments, a helpful feature, and the harmonic progressions and orchestrations are creative and engaging. Of course, one must play at tempo to use the accompaniments, but the fun and challenge they offer offsets tempo limitations. Playing along without pressing pause is a real workout and will get you finished in about 20 minutes. Davis practices what he preaches in the performances; his pitch centering and pedal tones are particularly refined. He provides an excellent example for aspiring trombonists. Hip-Bone contributes yet another fine product that encourages meaningful, fun practice habits.

-Mike Hall
Old Dominion University