Wye’s idea for the set of books he authored was to encourage familiarity with lesser-known keys and a formation of a firm low register as the foundation for good tone throughout the full range of notes. He also states in the preface the book was set up to “incorporate all the well-tried recipes of the past.” It was for this reason I was originally drawn to the book.
First exercises include blowing on the headjoint and through the full flute with black-and-white sketch pictures showing hand position. There are reference pages following these showing things like staff, treble clef, the usual starting rhythm notes (whole/half/quarter) and time signatures. Scales are laid out in exercises covering the range at the time, and not necessarily in 5-note or octave forms. Each piece has a marking of the key (F minor, G major) as well as a key signature given. The tone exercises are continued throughout the book adding on with the range as able. New ideas are explained as they arise, but not at the top of the page. In the back of the book is a glossary of Italian words and their meanings as well as a scale and arpeggio appendix. Throughout the book are sketch pictures with musical tidbits, and silly sayings. Most of the pieces are exercises, folk tunes, or classical melodies with some duets scattered in.
Highlights
· Order of notes: B1, A1, G1, C2, G#1, F1, E1, Bb1, F#1, Eb1, D1, D#1, C#2, A#1, D2, E2, F2, Eb/D#2, F#2, G2
· Range of notes: D1-G2
· Rhythm: whole notes/rests, half notes/rests, quarter notes/rests, eighth notes, eighth rests
· Other: Repeats, Fermatas, Breath Marks, staccato, Incomplete Measure
· Starts with brief exercises for making sound followed by reference pages for reading music.
· Piano accompaniment is available in a separate print book or on CD. Numbered pieces have piano accompaniment.
· Based on good low register tone and lesser-known keys.
· Tone exercises and scales expanded as range allows.
· Contains glossary of words used, and appendix of scales/arpeggios.
· Pieces are based on exercises, folk tunes, and classical melodies.
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