The late great trumpet virtuoso Maurice Andre once revealed his 1 hour daily warm up routine to readers of the Swiss based Brass Bulletin magazine — and his methods still come as a surprise…

Founded by journalist Jean-Pierre Mathez (1938-2023), the respected publication ran from 1971 to 2003, documenting the world of brass music making, repertoire, pedagogy, instrument making and performance practice.

Over its 124 editions and over 1,200 articles (which his son Jeremy is in the process of digitising) it explored varied topics and interviewed leading players in the brass world — including the great French trumpet player (1933-2012).

One hour regime

In 1987 Mathez interviewed Andre following a brace of personal landmarks — the first his appearance on the French television programme 'Grand Echiquier' as well as his own acclaimed International Trumpet Competition.

In asking him about both, Maurice Andre revealed his 1 hour daily practice regime — one that he undertook each morning (although he added "the older you get, the longer it takes").

Saunas and butter

Taking care of his physical and as well as psychological well-being was import to him, so much so that he revealed that he sometimes practiced in his sauna at 95 degrees Fahrenheit, whilst every night he massaged his lips with vitamin E rich butter.

There was also the telling technical change made to his mouthpieces, which were shaped to be wider at the top of the rim by 2mm.

Enjoy article

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https://brass-bulletin.com/magazines/brass-bulletin-no-60-4-1987/maurice-andre-better-than-ever