Brass Bulletin No. 21

Jean-Pierre Mathez

Research shapes music. This editorial highlights key scholars, welcomes new contributors, and calls on readers to support Brass Bulletin’s growing international reach.

The Trumpet Method

Edward H. Tarr

The first trumpet method rediscovered: Edward H. Tarr reveals how Bendinelli’s 1614 treatise reshapes our understanding of trumpet technique, signals, and ensemble art.

Early professional years

David Hickman

From struggle to breakthrough: Herbert L. Clarke’s rise reveals relentless practice, early setbacks, and the defining audition that launched one of history’s greatest cornet careers.

Do we or do we not play transcriptions?

Roger Bobo

“Transcriptions: yes or no? Beware.” Roger Bobo challenges tubists to rethink repertoire, taste, and tradition in a bold call for musical judgment and artistic freedom.

A Profile

Ralf Sauer

“The trombone must sing.” Ralph Sauer profiles Emory Remington—legendary teacher whose vocal approach shaped generations and redefined brass pedagogy.

Robert Ischer

Buying is easy—servicing is not. Robert Ischer exposes the hidden crisis of spare parts and aftercare, urging musicians to demand real accountability from makers.

Bengt Belfrage

Brass players are athletes. Bengt Belfrage reveals how training, recovery, breathing, and mental focus—borrowed from sport—can transform performance and endurance.

Jean Douay

A musician risks everything: Jean Douay reports on a trombonist who chose lip surgery to transform his playing—raising bold questions about technique, anatomy, and limits.

Kauko Karjalainen

A hidden tradition revealed: over 200 Finnish brass septets shaped regional music life—blending military roots, festivals, and composers like Sibelius into a living legacy.

Eyes toward the future

Roger Bobo

Beyond the instrument: Roger Bobo calls for open minds at Symposium ’78—urging tubists to seek inspiration, question identity, and look boldly toward the future.