Concepts of Technique 36 Register studies for Bass Clef Euphonium Pedagogical concepts: Dennis AsKew Music composed by: Eddie Bass INTRODUCTION This book is built on the acceptance of two basic principles, muscle memory and the concept of delineation. This book will not deal with the mechanics and descriptions of how to make a "good" sound, it is merely designed to help the player work on the other components of technique. These etudes are not designed to be an "be all, end all" for practice. They are to be used as a part of a complete practice regime which should include a daily routine, style etudes, and performance materials. These etudes would most likely fall into someone's daily routine. These etudes and the accompanying philosophy surrounding them have been the basis for the development of technique in my studio, and I hope you can use them as well. -- The exercises along with the written material makes this book a great teaching (and practice) package. Michael Moore (Atlanta Symphony) -- I have long been convinced that we need more study materials for euphonium and tuba (and, to be truthful, all instruments) that include specific information to guide students of all ages and levels toward the goals of mastering the technical aspects of playing the instruments, as well as directing them toward the end goal for all musicians, amateur or professional, which is good music making. The numbers and availability of professional artist/teachers of the euphonium and tuba are limited, and in some areas of the world one must travel hundreds of miles to find such an individual for study. Dr. Dennis AsKew has provided both clear instruction and etudes in this text that will allow anyone to be their own teacher in the absence of a professional artist/teacher, as well as a well-structured approach to practicing fundamental aspects of playing that can be utilized by established teachers with their students. I encourage you to give these materials careful examination. The pedagogy is sound and its application is very pragmatic. Jerry A. Young, Ed.D. Professor of Music, The University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire -- I really like the approach Dennis AsKew has taken with his new pedagogical book. He has separated (delineated in his terms) all the components of producing a "consistent" flow of air and allows the "student" to learn how to crawl (slur) properly before he/she learns how to walk and run (articulated). If the student will follow these guidelines diligently, at some point in the process he/she will no longer have to "think" about all these processes, they will become automatic. Unfortunately, most students do not use their air properly, therefore must initially give this a lot of deliberate thought. This book certainly provides the student with materials and philosophy needed to make that giant leap from blowing a horn to making music. I want to congratulate Dennis and thank him for his willingness to share proven techniques he has utilized in his successful approach to teaching the tuba. R. Winston Morris Professor of Music, Tennessee Tech University
About the Author: Dennis W. AsKew currently serves as Professor of Tuba, Euphonium and Music Education, Coordinator for Brass and Percussion, and Director of Athletic Bands at UNC Greensboro. Additionally, he is the Coordinator of Educational Activities for the Miraphone Corporation. A member of the Brass Staff for Spirit of Atlanta Drum and Bugle Corps he also serves as Consultant to the Board of Directors for Carolina Gold Drum & Bugle Corps. Dr. AsKew received degrees from the University of Michigan, Penn State University and the University of Georgia. He has served as President for the International Tuba Euphonium Association, Assistant Dean for the UNCG School of Music, and was host of the 2002 International Tuba/Euphonium Conference. In 2003, he was elected an Associate Regent for Pi Kappa Lambda, the music honor society. He has been active as a performer, having given solo performances throughout the United States, Hungary, Canada, Italy, Finland, Australia and the Netherlands, as well as numerous concerts throughout the United States and China as a member of the Market Street Brass Quintet.