Review

Marco Bordogni
Melodious Etudes for Bass Trombone (or Tuba) : Volume 2 (31-60)

Arranged by Joannes Rochut/Dr. Wade Goodwin


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2022
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Study Material - etude

With this book, Dr. Goodwin has completed his transposed versions of legendary Bordogni etudes, Vol. 1, originally compiled and arranged for trombone by Joannes Rochut. This text includes two versions of etudes 31 through 60, first transposed down a perfect fifth from the original and then again down an octave. Dr. Goodwin presented the first thirty etudes in the same manner and that text is also published by Cherry Classics Music.

Trombonists have long used the vocalises of Marco Bordogni as a primary practice tool, often reading them in different clefs or octaves. Bass trombone players in particular commonly play the original versions down an octave to help develop a full, consistent low register sound along with smoothing out challenging passages in and out of the valve sections. What is unique about Dr. Goodwin’s text is the version transposed down a fifth, which is not accessible via reading the etudes in either the tenor or alto clefs. It is highly recommended that players take full advantage of that transposition by performing it an octave higher and, for the most adventurous, down an octave (totaling a perfect twelfth lower than the original). 

With Melodious Etudes for Bass Trombone (or Tuba) volumes 1 and 2, Dr. Goodwin has provided a pair of valuable methods for all low brass players. In addition, those introduced to these books may find themselves drawn to transposing more of their favorite etudes for added benefit. If this type of work sounds appealing, consider Dr. Goodwin’s other publications as well.