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Writer's pictureRobert Hillier

Practising a baroque instrument

My blogs usually focus on baroque music but once in a while I come across something more general that's worth a mention. All players practise but some of us are better at it. I'm still discovering ways to improve my practice sessions. There's plenty of advice available on how to practise and no one source covers it all. Here is one excellent compendium of ideas (and it applies not just to the oboe):

https://www.public.asu.edu/~schuring/Oboe/practice.html


Online, an occasional Google search for "how to practise" plus the name of your instrument will produce a wealth of insights that are worth the time you spend finding them. Don't neglect resources for modern instruments eg Trevor Wye's books on playing the (modern) flute contain so many ideas transferable to the baroque flute that I am ever grateful to the (baroque) teacher who pointed me to them (thanks Christine!).


My next practice session? Focus on trill terminations followed by the trills themselves (plus the terminations of course) giving every finger a good workout. Slowly and under control! High and low. Good tone. Good intonation. Relaxed. Enjoying the improvements achieved. Noting particular things to work on next time. Excelsior!

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