Trumpet Studies

This two-volume edition of etudes for trumpet was commissioned by the publisher in order to present comprehensive material for training and daily study that corresponds to current music-making practice. At the same time, the “Trumpet Etudes” form a useful supplement to the trumpet school for beginners and advanced students. Conscious attention was paid to the balance between traditional etudes, which have been tried and tested for decades, and contemporary studies. To this end, the editor reviewed the older material previously available in many individual editions and at the same time turned to composers in order to obtain new additions that take special methodological problems into account.

This selection of etudes, compiled under the aspect of versatility, forms important basic material for teaching at music schools, special schools and colleges of music. The first volume is mainly intended for children and youth work. Therefore, the wind requirements do not exceed a certain physical level. This applies both to the length of the etudes and to the range used. In order to achieve the greatest possible looseness in practicing, to master rhythmic and intonation problems safely, and to achieve the set goal technically and in terms of content, each etude presupposes the preceding one. Deliberately (despite the systematic structure), some easier etudes have been used as resting points in each case, in order to strengthen self-confidence, knowledge of one's own ability and physical performance.

The second volume contains technically and musically difficult material (especially for training embouchure and endurance) for higher levels of training. Some etudes serve for the study of well-known orchestral passages. Sometimes dynamic indications have been omitted in order to encourage the learner to play independently.

The following hints for practicing allow the maximum use of the etudes when used sensibly.

Hans-Joachim Krumpfer, Berlin, summer 1976