Which Arbans for Euphonium?

[Bob Mosso]

I had a copy of Arbans for Trombone in my hand ready to pay for it, but it didn't seem right. I remembered a spiral binder, and arranged by ... someone different... After some internet searching I found two versions:

-Arban's Famous Method for Trombone, Randall/Mantia/Fisher, about $26
-Arban Complete Method, Alessi/Bowman/Encore, about $56

Are there other versions (for euph)?

What is the difference? (yeah I know, about $30)

Which one do you recommend?

Thanks,
Bob

[sinfonian]

I wouldn't buy the book for the sprial bound only (at $30 more). I have taken several books that were not sprial bound to Office Max and had it spiral bound and the covers laminated for less then $5 for a savings of $25 in this case.

[ufoneum]

Buy the Alessi/Bowman version. First, it lays down real nice on the stand. Second, everything is BIGGER. Anyone who has spent a long time in front of an Arban's knows that the older version is way too small (print). Also, there are little trinkets of wisdom from Joe and Brian as it goes to the exercises. If you can - - - get this version, IT IS WORTH IT!

[Chuck(G)]

Are there other versions (for euph)?

At the expense of getting flamed, what's the matter with the trumpet version? You get everything for about half the cost of the Alessi/Bowman edition.

Is knowing how to read TC now considered to be passé for euphonium players?

--
If you want to see another old (BC) method for baritone/euph, see:

http://memory.loc.gov:8081/music/sm/sm1880/18800/18883/

(You'll get an index page, just view the .TIF files)

[Bob Mosso]

Thanks everyone. I am a Bb TC player looking to improve my BC skills, so the trumpet book isn't approperiate for my goals. Anaheim Band only had the Fisher version, I'll check Fullerton Music or order on-line for the Encore version.

[Z-Tuba Dude]

There are plenty of books that you can use to practice reading bass clef music. I believe that the Arban book's real benefit, is in learning the fingering patterns, tonguing, etc., ....from the physical point of view.

IMHO it would be no great loss, if you played the Arbans in treble clef, and used other methods to work on your bass clef skills. Especially, if it means the difference between missing duets, solo material, or money!