Major Scales
The study of the scales has generally been greatly neglected in works of the present description; writers on the subject generally contenting themselves with giving a few examples, leaving the pupil to supply for himself whatever may be wanting in the method. What is the result? Why, that few artists are capable of executing a scale correctly. It is, however, of urgent importance that the scales should be diligently practiced. For this reason, knowing as I do the importance of this branch of study, I have treated it at length, and in every variety of key. By this means, a perfect equality of sound, as well as a LEGATO and correct method of playing may be obtained.
Minor Scales
The minor scale being naturally less rich than the major scale, I have only given examples of the tonic and the dominant, so as to give an idea of its resources.
Chromatic Scales and Triplets
The chromatic scale being one of the most essential, I have treated it at considerable length. This kind of study imparts ease to the fingering: care must be taken to press the valves properly down, in order that all the notes may be emitted with fullness.
The student must at first practice slowly, taking care to duly mark the rhythms indicated. In this scale, as in the diatonic scale, it is necessary the tone in ascending, and to diminish it in descending. Strict attention should be paid to time; nor should the latter part of each phrase be hurried, a common fault with many artists. I recommend the use of the metronome, in order to arrive at the precision which constitutes the beauty of execution.
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