A number of months ago I mentioned in this blog that Adam Woolf, member of His Majesty’s Sagbutts & Cornetts and many of the other leading early music ensembles in Europe, would be publishing a sackbut method book in the near future. This welcome addition is now available here. To my knowledge, there are no other comparable resources available today. I’ll be getting one for my college trombone studio! Below are some highlights of the book, as described on his website:

Released in 2010, this tutor-book is the first of its kind. A compilation of exercises and advice based on years of specialist performing and teaching experience and many historical references, this book includes advice, exercises, explanations, studies and complete solo and ensemble works to challenge, encourage and inspire players of any level.

•Over 200 pages of advice, exercises and repertoire.

•Something for players of any level.

•Specifically written studies and exercises for articulation, ornamentation and tuning in temperaments.

•16 complete solo pieces including 8 sets of divisions.

•Duets, trios and more…

•Translations of vocal music.

•Excerpts from larger ensemble and ‘orchestral’ repertoire including Monteverdi’s 1610 Vespers and Schütz’s Christmas Story.