Exercises in Double Crotchets: for Tuba

In the original edition of METHOD FOR TRUMPET by Jean Baptiste Arban, these instructions were given concerning the Exercises in Double Crotchets: "...In order to arrive at perfection of execution, these studies should be played with scrupulous attention to time and rhythm, due regard being had to the articulations therein indicated. The performer should begin slowly and increase his speed until he has become familiar with the exercise. Too great a rapidity of execution does not always impart to the performance the brilliancy expected. Precision and regularity are the real foundation of an excellent execution...." Arban's studies did include several articulation patterns, but he did not apply these patterns to each of the exercises. Furthermore, each exercise was presented only once, in just one key. These exercises are excellent for developing a smooth, even technique when practiced in all keys. In this book I have transposed each exercise into every key. I have listed articulation variations to be applied to each exercise. These variations include all of those used by Arban, plus many more of my own. I suggest that the student practice this material for a short time every day. Consider these exercises to be a long term project-that they must be completed in several years. Used in this way-in small doses every day-these exercises will have a very positive effect. Wesley Jacobs