Review

Marco Bordogni
Clef Studies for the Modern Trombonist: from Melodious Etudes Volume 1

Arranged by Dr. Wade Goodwin


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2023
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

e-book. 139 pages

Primary Genre: Study Material - etude

There are 30 studies altogether, covering 11 major keys (exception of B) and 1 minor key (D minor). Each is given in bass, tenor, and alto clefs, resulting in many notes in the unlikely scenario of up to four ledger lines below the alto clef. The overall range is A - b1. The first exercise presented is ‘Chromatic Scale in Clefs’ with a position chart for tenor trombone going up to c2. It’s all challenging material, and will certainly be of value in extending range and developing technique and a lyrical style.

Dr Goodwin states in his foreword that "if you play, or have played, British Brass Band Music then you know that knowing the lower ranges of tenor clef is essential."  This is incorrect. In British Brass Band music (which I have played), the trombone parts are written in b-flat transposition in treble clef. This is called 'tenor', but the actual tenor clef is not used, and I understand that the practice is the same in some American band music.

Giulio Marco Bordogni (1789 - 1856) was an Italian operatic tenor and singing teacher whose mature career was based in Paris, where he sang in 13 premiere performances of operas by Rossini.

Dr. Goodwin is a recent graduate of the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, where he earned both his Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees. He now works as a professional bass trombonist playing orchestral music and jazz.