Modern Trombone: A Definition of Its Idioms

A reprint of definitive work on the techniques used in modern 20th-century trombone performance. [Originally published by the University of California Press.] This volume is not intended to supplant existing works on the trombone, but rather to complement them. It is addressed to composers as well as trombonists and teachers, and aims to make all readers aware of the techniques that are idiomatic to the trombone. Each chapter is a unit and is designed to be read separately if desired. The book as a whole is an invitation to experiment with the materials provided and to become thoroughly acquainted with the trombone. Stuart Dempster is a Professor in the School of Music at the University of Washington and is a well-known concert and recording trombonist.

The chapter headings are: Voice and Multiphonics, Vowels and Consonants, Glissandos, Microtones, Vibratos and Trills, Other Body Sounds, Slide, and Bell Disassembly, Percussive Devices and Accessories, Mutes, Means of Extension, and Theatrical Implications.

The appendices are: General Speech, Ten Grand Hosery, The Didjeridu, John Cage and Frank Rehak, and Range.

The book is well-indexed and includes an extensive bibliography. The original volume included a flexible 7" recording, and this new edition contains a compact disc that captures the full frequency range and fidelity of the studio recording.