Review

Ralph Sauer
Practice with Bach, Volume 1: Twenty-four etudes in all keys, based upon preludes from The Well-Tempered Clavier
Bass trombone

Vancouver, BC, , Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2018
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score

Primary Genre: Study Material - etude

Ralph Sauer’s book Practice with Bach, Vol. I for bass trombone contains twenty-four etudes in all keys, based on preludes from Bach’s famous The Well-Tempered Clavier. Practice with Bach, Vol. I is available in five different versions: Alto trombone, tenor trombone, euphonium, bass trombone, and tuba. Each version is tailored to the individual instrument, such as the choice of key, range, and use of ornamentation. The bass trombone version is written primarily in the middle to low (trigger) register with occasional pedal notes. Written entirely in bass clef, the bass trombone version can be used by tenor trombonists looking to improve their low registers as well. Within the twenty-four etudes, there are two general tempo suggestions provided: Moderato and Lento. The etudes work well at many different tempos and dynamic levels, and the player is encouraged by Sauer to explore different possibilities. The articulations provided are written by Sauer and inspired by Glenn Gould’s famous interpretation of Bach’s masterwork. Having an etude book that includes etudes in every major and minor key serves as a great practice tool and can be paired with a student or player’s scale routine. These etudes also provide trombonists a great tool to introduce themselves to and learn the musical language of Bach, with music that is more accessible than playing through Bach’s cello suites. While not intended for public performance, these Bach inspired etudes are certain to challenge any player’s musical and technical abilities.