Brass Bulletin No. 13

Jean-Pierre Mathez

1976: Brass Bulletin transforms. A4 format, three languages side by side — and already readers in 41 countries. A real turning point.

The Arban-Cornet

Jean-Pierre Mathez

At 55, Jean-Baptiste Arban sets out to reinvent the cornet and impose it on conservatories. A relentless quest for perfection… ending in failure.

As applied to wind instrument playing, with emphasis on the study of lung function in trumpet playing

William W. Bing

Do trumpet players breathe differently? William W. Bing shows not really—except for greater lung capacity tied to endurance, with no harmful effects.

Fernand Lelong, Robert Coutet

How did the tuba emerge as an orchestral force? Fernand Lelong and Robert Coutet trace its path—from serpent to Sax—and its rapid rise.

James Fulkerson

Should you really drop the jaw for low notes? James Fulkerson challenges this idea and proposes a more stable approach to extend the low register.

Roland Böckle

What if learning an instrument meant more than playing pieces? Roland Böckle promotes collective improvisation to develop listening, taste, and creativity.

Theo Westhof

Why does the ideal horn not exist? Theo Westhof designs a new descant double horn to solve tuning and tone issues—without compromise.

Robert Ischer

Pistons or rotary valves: which system is superior? Simplicity and silence vs mechanical complexity—an ongoing debate among brass players.

Jean Douay

How should Boléro’s trombone solo be played? After 100 performances, Jean Douay challenges conventions and argues for a more supple, controlled approach.