Daily Exercises: A Progressive Journey for Flute, Vol 1

Paul Edmund-Davies is a masterful writer. He knows exactly what we need to improve at each stage of our development and gives us the ability to practice properly. His proven way of dividing up technique into the familiar topics of Breathing and Phrasing, Finger Work, Articulation and Intervals establishes excellent practice habits and facilitates a smooth transition to a more challenging book when the time is right. The raison d'être for each exercise is clearly outlined with detailed working instructions, and all keys are covered in all in exercises. This is a fully comprehensive approach which is endlessly useful. You will return to it time and time again!

This is another great addition to Paul Edmund-Davies' collection of technical exercises for flute. Focussing on some of the core pillars of good playing - Breathing and Phrasing, Finger Work, Articulation and Intervals - there are 3 exercises in each area which work through the different keys and provide opportunities to develop skills and build stamina. Each exercise is preceded by a detailed explanation, artistically written and revealing some of the aspects of Paul Edmund-Davies's personal aesthetic as a musician. The exercises are imaginative and centred (perhaps most importantly) on developing musicianship alongside technical skills; he explains that the use of air is one of the most important facets of flute playing, and each of the areas of focus brings our thoughts back to how to use the air to produce a musically interesting outcome.

The 146-page book is beautifully presented, spiral-bound so it sits flat on a music stand and packed full of useful material. The typesetting is well managed and suggestions for further explorations are given at the end.

This is an enjoyable addition to any daily practice routine; I found the breathing and phrasing exercises worked particulary well as a warm-up, and the fingerwork exercises are great practice at almost any tempo to maintain well-controlled muscle movement. The intervals excercises perhaps require the most stamina, but can be broken up into smaller sections while a player builds strength. Perhaps most fascinating were the articulation exercises, which provide an almost baroque-inspired approach full of variaty and flexibility.

An excellent volume which is ideal for personal practice or teaching - or both! Recommended.