Brass Bulletin 27, III / 1979 (page 3–) · 2 min. read
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Many players ask us for articles in which the great virtuosos will reveal their secrets. Unfortunately this is a tricky matter (everyone has his own formula) and very few artists manage — or are inclined — to give really useful advice in every case.

The mastery of an instrument is acquired by developing the powers of perception (curiosity, analysis and choice) rather than having oneself bombarded with theories (as is already done quite well enough commercially!).

Some things can be said, however, and can give guidance to those in search of improvement. This requires not only a good teacher and a good musician but a complete and dedicated artist.

For four years we have been able to watch the fantastic power and influence of James Stamp and his extraordinary perception which enable him, to put it briefly, to correct the most private and best-hidden faults which vitiate a musician's playing.

We are pleased to announce that James Stamp will be publishing "Technical Hints" in instalments for Brass Bulletin readers, starting with our November 1979 edition (no. 28).

We would also like to welcome on to our editorial team Thomas Stevens, who will regularly deal with all trumpet matters in the United States for us; David Todd (tb), English editor-translator; Max Sommerhalder (tp), German editor-translator; and Romain Brot, French translator-proofreader.

Their collaboration will make a great contribution to improving the quality of the content of our magazine.

Jean-Pierre Mathez

Tuba editorial

There is a natural tendency among all of us, whether professional, amateur, teacher or student, to calculate our musical art to function at its best within our own musical community. This is as it should be. If music is a form of communication, then of course, we communicate first to those who are nearest.

For many reasons, however, the international language of music among brass instruments is becoming less local, less provincial and less nationalistic. It seems the time has passed when a man or woman can operate within a certain region without being exposed to new and changing ideas in regard to music making.

Many see this tendency as a wonderful opportunity for gathering new materials and ideas in the ever expanding field of musical communication. Unfortunately, some see it as a pressure or even a threat to their secure, stable (and perhaps stale) musical environment.

We have today the great advantages of recordings, visiting artists, periodicals (such as Brass Bulletin), symposia, workshops, special courses and master classes which are now virtually available to us all. Why not eagerly take advantage of this gift of our time?

Roger Bobo

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