Bert Appermont

Articulation Train (Fanfarenorchester)

From my experience as a conductor and a jury member, I know that many orchestras are faced with typical problems: lack of sound control, intonation difficulties, uncontrolled articulation and insufficient phrasing. Practising these aspects is very demanding of an orchestra and there is little material available that is also enjoyable to play. 'Four Original Warm-Ups' is therefore intended to improve this situation. It consists of four enjoyable warm-up pieces. Each piece focuses on one of the said issues without the music being dull as a result of this. Part 3: Articulation Train All aspects of articulation are addressed in this hellish train journey. The gradual acceleration not only suggests a train that is driving faster and faster, but is also intended to practise staccato playing. For a concert performance, a child or a musician could be dressed up as an engine driver and sound the train departure whistle. A real train whistle can enhance the atmosphere in certain places that have been marked for this purpose. This part can also be used as an encore piece for a concert. These four pieces can but do not have to be played in succession. Each part can be used separately for a rehearsal or concert. I truly hope that these four parts will contribute to improving the standards of many orchestras without spoiling the fun of playing!