Flexibility exercises are fundamental for brass players. They help develop your range, legato playing and overall control of the instrument.
Avoiding the notes ‘in between’
These exercises work on large intervals while avoiding the notes in between. Aim for precision rather than speed when you practise them.
Find the right tempo
Choose a tempo that enables you to play every note with a full sound and accurate pitch without touching the “avoid notes”. For example, when leaping an octave from a low B♭, make sure you don’t hit the F between them. The smaller, optional notes should only be played when you can perform them in one breath and with good control.
Optional and advanced exercises
I practise these flexibility exercises regularly and find them very rewarding. Playing both low and high ranges in the same breath without changing your embouchure too much is very beneficial. If some exercises are too challenging – just skip them for now. Focus on the ones you can play well and add the others as your playing improves. Exercises 18 and 19 are extremely advanced; I can’t play them myself unless I’m in top shape! Feel free to take up the challenge when you’re ready.
Sheet music and further resources
Sheet music is available in bass clef (C) and treble clef for B♭ instruments. You can find this and many other exercises in the 38‑page book Flexibility for Trombone (print‑friendly PDF format).
Good luck, and enjoy!
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