Rolf Quinque

ASA-Methode

ApproachPostgraduate studies Lower level Intermediate level Upper level Advanced level The 17th century did not yet know the etude in the modern sense. From Joh. Seb. Bach, however, we know that he wrote pieces with the character of etudes for his pupils, and even more, he had them practise touch exercises on the piano for months, in his own words preferably for years, i.e. daily finger exercises according to the motto: It is of little use to get in shape if nothing is done to stay in shape. With this in mind, in relation to our instrument and lips, you should consider the following embouchure exercises. They are not intended as warm ups, although that term is absolutely appropriate for some of these studies. In their entirety, they rather serve to build muscle, comparable to the training of an athlete. Just like him, we also have to gradually increase our performance. The muscles and organs involved adapt to the increased load, but only if the build-up is systematic and rational. Gradually try to cover the full distance of each trial, like a long-distance runner, in less and less time. Depending on the level of difficulty, one or at most three exercises over several days in addition to your daily workload are sufficient. You should only start with further exercises when you have mastered the previous ones with absolute ease according to the instructions of my approach method and have reached a rhythmically and tonally satisfactory level. The deliberately simple grip combinations make it easier to control the actions of the diaphragm, lips and tongue within the oral cavity. Get a mental picture of their movements and always compare yourself with an artist whose principle is: there are no secrets, at best only small tricks that can be learned.