Instructions:

​

The purpose for this exercise is to establish and strengthen a good fundamental foundation for beginning brass students. It is also to prepare the student’s embouchure for upcoming elements in the student’s method book.
 

The exercise is executed in a question and answer format. Begin by tapping your foot to set the tempo. Students should tap along to feel the pulse (the assigned tempos are approximations). Once the tempo is set, the exercise can begin. Every measure is repeated, with the exception of line 4, to ensure more accuracy. Students are to imitate the model you are presenting. No music or explanations for the students are needed.
 

At the beginning of the exercise during the breathing portion, a deep/open breath must be taken on count 4 then articulate each note with the tip of the tongue. Proceed to blow out a warm/steady air stream for 4 counts. In measure 2, make sure the air stream is connected between the quarter notes. The air stream should only be broken by the tongue. Measure 3 is the same as measure 2, but this time the mouthpiece is placed in the correct position on the face. The mouthpiece should be held by the thumb and first two fingers on the shank, so not to use too much pressure. From this point on, the mouthpiece should remain on the student’s face for the duration of the exercise, even while the student is resting. Once the exercise is started do not stop unless it is absolutely necessary.
 

Constantly scan over the students to see that they are doing the exercise correctly. Are the students tapping their feet? Are their cheeks puffing out? Are they holding their mouthpieces correctly? Are they using enough air? Are they sitting up straight in their chairs? Are the students’ chins up? Visual cues should be used for corrections; simply point to the student to make the necessary adjustments.
 

The exercise is to be done every day at the beginning of class before any note is played on the instrument. Establish as a routine for best results.
 

Level I is to be executed for an entire semester of study. At the conclusion of the first semester assess the students to determine whether they are ready to proceed to Level II or remain on Level I.