CONTROLLING AIRFLOW IS THE MOST CRITICAL ASPECT OF PLAYING Without controlling airflow it is impossible to play well. Brass instruments are fueled by focused air which creates the buzz. Air-flow heavily influences how high, low, loud, soft, expressively (musically) you can play, how long you can play a phrase and how the instrument will sound. […]
GOOD POSTURE ALLOWS AIR TO FLOW FREELY
The Importance of Good Posutre Playing a brass instrument well involves focus, concentration, energy and above all free airflow from your lungs to your lips. This is achieved through a good posture. Poor posture will make it difficult to do all of these things. When Sitting Sit up straight, but relaxed – don’t sit up […]
HOW TO HOLD YOUR TROMBONE
Hold your trombone like you are serious about playing Holding your instrument correctly every time you play sets you up to play at your very best. It allows good airflow, posture and placement of the instrument on the lips. And most importantly, it allows you to operate the slide freely. Learn how to hold your […]
CARE OF YOUR INSTRUMENT
Taking good care of your instrument will keep it looking like new Brass instruments will last for a lifetime if you take good care of your instrument. The biggest risk to an instrument is when it is out of its case. Instruments scratch and dent easily, so be sure not to allow them to bump […]
Value of Practice – How to Raise It
Listeners will quickly notice the value of practice whenever they hear a musician perform. The player will play better, will enjoy playing more and everyone listening will appreciate the preparation. Raising the Value of Practice Your child will get the greatest value from their lessons when they establish a regular practice schedule at home. Lesson […]
Bass Trombone – How is it different?
The bass trombone is in a class of it’s own in any band or orchestra. Although usually part of a trombone section, it often behaves and sounds like a principal instrument. In a big band, a well projected bass bone can cut through the whole band as much as a lead trumpet. It often has […]
Cracked Note or How to Make a Brass Player Cringe
The dreaded Cracked Note and how to Fix it. Every brass instrument player will experience the dreaded split or cracked note from time to time. It is obvious when it happens. You attempt to play a beautiful tone through your instrument. Instead, the sound that comes out resembles a car backfiring. When this happens, other brass players […]
How to Play Trombone eBook Launched!
How to Play Trombone ebook just launched! Fresh off the press, this new How to Play Trombone ebook explains all the essential techniques that are required to play a trombone well. Written by an experienced trombone player for students, parents and teachers. This ebook covers the fundamental skills all the way through to more advanced topics. […]
Plastic Trombone Review – Should I buy one?
Plastic Trombone Review The plastic trombone is a recent innovation, but are they any good? This plastic trombone review discusses the benefits and the drawbacks of playing a plastic trombone. I am often asked by parents and students about the pros and cons of playing a plastic trombone vs a brass version of the instrument. I […]
Lesson and Practice Journal
Practice Journal? What’s the Point? A practice journal? Who needs one? It sounds like more trouble than its worth. But if used properly, it can be an invaluable tool for students, their parents and their teachers. Trying to remember what was said in a lesson can be quite a challenging for most students. Remembering what […]