Review

Brian Scarborough
From the Middle:

, United States
Publisher: Brian Scarborough Music
Date of Publication: 2025
URL: http://www.brianscarboroughmusic.com
Language: English

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

Brian Scarborough built a daily practice routine on the premise that we should be starting our exercises in fourth position rather than first. Scarborough argues that beginning in first position invites mechanical, autopilot practice. Instead, he organizes his exercises around the middle of the slide, most often moving through the sequence 4–5–3–6–2–7–1. The book is 134 pages long and is aimed at advanced college level students through seasoned professionals. It is divided into eighteen categories covering breathing, buzzing, long tones, lip slurs, articulation, slide coordination, scales, dynamics, and a closing cool-down.

The book is organized into a modular design, which sets it apart from most daily routine books. Players are encouraged to choose a single variation from each category to build a 60- to 90-minute session. Scarborough mentioned that there are over 13 trillion possible combinations to explore, which eliminates monotonous boring warm-up routines. Each category ends with prompts that ask players to transpose patterns, try asymmetrical meters, apply symmetrical scales, or add pitch bends. The content also goes well beyond the usual fundamentals. It includes lip slurs extended to all twelve keys, high-register studies played entirely in seventh position, exercises based on Messiaen's modes of limited transposition, chromatic enclosure studies through common seventh chords, off-horn rhythm drumming, and singing exercises.

The book closes with a listening guide and practice journal pages. A reference appendix of augmented and diminished scales supports the more advanced harmonic material. From the Middle is perhaps best suited for self-motivated players who already have a solid foundation and want to bring fresh focus to their daily practice. Its flexibility is a strength, but it also asks a lot of the player. Younger students may find this approach overwhelming and will likely benefit from a teacher's guidance in choosing variations and rotating through the material over time.

Brian Scarborough's From the Middle is a thoughtful and creative rethinking of the daily routine. For trombonists who have grown stale with their fundamentals, it offers a refreshing and engaging way to practice.