Classic Style

Classic Style Classic Style is the newest book by Phil Collins. It is a wonderful collection of melodies by 47 different composers, from Albinoni to Wieniawski. These are not orchestral excerpts, but melodies drawn from the entire classical repertoire, in keys and registers that are appropriate for the trumpet (and many other instruments). Each is accompanied by a comment from the author like the following (referring to Bizet’s Symphony in C): “In the unlikely event that this oboe solo is ever given to the solo cornet, you’ll be ready!” This is a unique book in a number of ways: First, it offers insight into the compositional style of most of the great classical composers. While the melodies are not entirely lyrical they comprise the majority, so it can be considered a lyrical etude book. As a jazz musician who is more familiar with Ellington than Elgar, I’ve found these etudes to be an education in the compositional style of most of the great classical composers, and a study in melodic composition. Phil has once again hits a home run with Classic Style. With more than 30 years experience playing principal trumpet with the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops, Phil Collins knows what it takes to be a successful orchestral trumpet player. In his four books, Phil offers a variety of etudes that closely replicate the requirements of the real world. Even more important, they are musical and fun to play. Phil cleverly incorporates myriad technical challenges into a musical context. You develop not only the technical side of your playing, but also your powers of musical expression. Contained on many of the pages are suggestions, humorous anecdotes and bits of advice, which really hit home. Often, with just a few words, Phil can change the way you approach an etude. He encourages you to strive for more than the notes. These books are not just for trumpet players, but for anyone who wants to develop technique and powers of musical expression. Even if you already have a full complement of etude books, these will spend more time on your music stand than on the shelf.