Review

Brad Edwards
Trombone Craft: A Musical Approach to Building Tone and Technique, Vol.2

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Publisher: BoneZone.org
Date of Publication: 2011
URL: http://www.BoneZone.org

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

Brad Edwards currently teaches trombone at the University of South Carolina and is the principal trombonist of both the Augusta Symphony and the South Carolina Philharmonic. In addition to his pedagogical materials, he has published two compositions, Blue Wolf and 4 Impromptus for Low Bone Alone, both of which are written for unaccompanied trombone. Dr. Edwards’ Trombone Craft series represents the final installment in his trilogy of books on trombone fundamentals. Trombone Craft, as well as Lip Slurs and Simply Singing for Winds, make up his progressive method, which is accessible to high school students, college students, and professionals. In Trombone Craft Vol.2, Edwards reemphasizes his idea that technique only has value in serving a musical goal, and targets techniques that trombonists must learn. In the first half of this book, 26 pages in length, Edwards takes the trombonist through all 12 keys with short exercises, half-page etudes, and creative "Two-Line" tunes. In the "Memorize This" exercises, the trombonist memorizes short scale and arpeggio patterns with a musical shape, which then progress into the different modes. There are also "Tech Builder" and "Rhythm Builder" exercises and etudes, which focus on common rhythmic problems. The second half of the book, 33 pages in length, contains bonus appendices focusing on special areas including: multiple tonguing, building high range, developing legato tongue, and flow exercises (sing, buzz, play). What is particularly helpful about Edwards's Trombone Craft series are the cross references to other trombone etude and method books, allowing for easy access to related material. While some method and etude books become monotonous, Edwards' book keeps the player engaged through shorter, more concise exercises using a wide variety of keys, modes, and styles. All three volumes of Trombone Craft are now available in a single edition from BoneZone.org.

-Russ Ballenger
Tuscaloosa, AL