Bordogni / Rochut Melodious Etudes for Trombone - Book 1, No. 1
Interactive Theme Study Strip (Clef Switcher & Alt Positions)
Click any notehead on the staff to hear pitch and inspect slide position
Acoustic & Technical Masterclass Matrix
Measure-by-measure breakdown of range, tempo, acoustic prescription, and alternate slide routes.
| Section & Measures | Pitch Range & Slide Span | Meter & Tempo | Acoustic & Practice Prescription | Alternate Slide Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Etude No. 1: Cantabile sostenuto in F Major | F2 – G4 (Pos 1–6) | 3/4 · ♩ = 72 | The undisputed "Vocal Bible" of trombone legato. Continuous Italian bel-canto phrasing with unbroken diaphragm support. | Cross smoothly between 1st, 2nd, and 4th positions; avoid rushing across 6th position. |
| Etude No. 2: Andante con moto in Bb Major | Bb2 – A4 (Pos 1–5) | 6/8 · ♪ = 108 | Flowing compound meter. Ensure eighth-note subdivisions are perfectly relaxed without clipping note ends. | Use alternate 4th position for D4 to stay within upper harmonic tier for buttery transitions. |
| Etude No. 3: Allegretto grazioso in D minor | D3 – Bb4 (Pos 1–5) | 2/4 · ♩ = 84 | Expressive lyrical declamation. Coordinate subtle soft-tongue "Dah" with instant wrist repositioning. | Play high F4 in 4th position when bordered by Eb4 (3rd) and D4 (-4th) for short-throw economy. |
Historical Context
Transcribed from the Paris Conservatoire vocalises of Italian tenor Marco Bordogni by Boston Symphony principal Joannes Rochut, this collection is the undisputed 'Bible of Trombone Legato'.
Audition Significance
Required in virtually every orchestral audition and college jury to assess pure vocal beauty of tone, legato purity, and breath connection across the horn.
Pedagogical Focus Areas
4-Step Masterclass Practice Routine
Rhythmic Subdivision & Slow Articulation
Practice core motifs at ♩=68 with a metronome to align slide stops with clean tongue attacks.
Alternate Slide Position Mapping
Mark 4th and 5th alternate positions in upper-register passages to minimize right-arm travel distance.
Intonation Check with Reference Drone
Sustain key tonic and dominant notes against a 440/442Hz reference drone before full-tempo runs.
IMSLP Public Domain Score & Printable Slide Reference
Access the complete public-domain solo & piano accompaniment editions on IMSLP, or open our interactive slide position chart.