The key words to keep in mind when thinking of this book by Bernard Brown are “progressive” and “methodical”. It’s hard to think of another book that is laid out in such a common-sense way as this one; when you play through it, you’ll think, “why aren’t all books laid out like this?”

This book starts with the absolute fundamentals of playing: tone production, breath control, and how to hold the instrument. Then it gradually exposes each key/scale through exercises, studies, and songs at difficulty levels that are appropriate to the level of development. The whole time, there is an accompanying part written for the teacher to play along to support the student. It’s just too good.

Take a look at some sample pages to the left, then click above for an immediate PDF download of the entire book.