Can you cope with quarter tones?

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Our harmonic and melodic system is based on half steps and other systems are based on quarter tones. When we listen to the quarter step system, we are uncomfortable because of this unusual pitch relationship. Our instruments are not capable of playing quarter tones. So why am I posting information on how to perform the imposable? I think you might find the exercise interesting, or even mind altering. Our brass instruments are based on an overtone system which overlaps each fingering series, i.e. open fingering followed by 2, 1, 12, 23, 13, and 123. If you think of each series…

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Final “Stiff Chops” Post………. (for now.)

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The problem with stiff embouchures is common with trumpet and horn players possibly due to the fact that such a small amount of embouchure is actually in the cup of the mouthpiece when compared to that of a trombone or tuba mouthpiece. Coping with and/or solving this condition can be done in many ways but today I will cover two of the most common- “before and after repair”. A very good friend and super trumpet player and I visited for some time sharing ideas which have proven helpful for each of us when faced with stiff chops. Mr. Doyle Miller…

How to Combat “Stiff Chops”

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From time to time we all have gone through the sensation that our trumpet playing lips are too stiff and feel uncomfortably ridged. Each time you put the mouthpiece to your lip you seem to have the same reaction, “Oh no, here we go again”. When this condition develops, there are several ways to address this problem- What is wrong with my lip? How did I get this way? How can I get relief? What do I need to do to prevent this condition from coming back? What’s wrong with my lip? A stiff or inflexible embouchure is usually caused…

What Is The Difference Between New Orleans and Chicago Dixieland Jazz?

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What Is The Difference Between New Orleans and Chicago Dixieland Jazz? The quickest answer to that question would be 930 miles. From a musical standpoint it is much more complicated and for that reason I will try to simplify it for you. Traditional New Orleans style of Dixieland usually include these characteristics • Strong marching band history • Instrumentation which is more mobile (banjo, brass instruments, woodwinds, marching percussion (bass drum player, snare player, etc.) • Strong emphasis on all four beats • Generally a more ensemble approach to performance • Use of solo performances is limited • Literature generally…

Patching Old Horns For Pennies

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After many years of dedicated service, an instrument can start looking its age. The once bright and shiny surfaces begin to fade and the once shiny silver or polished brass areas where we hold the instrument begins to tarnish. One of your solutions for this situation could be to send it to a repair shop and have the silver redone or have the instrument stripped, polished and covered with a new coat of lacquer ($625). Because of the tight financial conditions of many households as well as the country, I have another solution. Fix it yourself for less than it…

Every Entrance Begins on the note “C”

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Have you ever had this experience? Your first note begins on a low “G” and ascends to a “D” above high “C”? Or Your first note is a high “C” and ends on a low “G” below the staff? If you find it easy to play first note, but have difficulty on the final note; consider the following solution to this problem. Beginning on a high note will usually require more firm corners and a smaller aperture. Starting on a low note requires a more relaxed embouchure and a larger aperture. The benefits of setting your lips for the high…

Only “9” More Days Remain!

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Announcing TrumpetLessonsOnline.com has now launched! Checkout our FREE Preview lessons here before signing up. _____________ 25% discount through January 31st of this year! Use code “25OFF” when registering for this discount. _____________ For the past year, we have been compiling important information to share with our readers and students which will answer many questions they might have about playing the trumpet. For almost six decades I have been performing and teaching trumpet and now I have made available an easy and productive series of video lessons compiled for trumpet players of all ages and all levels of performance. Because of…

Recent Comment With Valve Problem

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I just read this comment from one of our readers and was not sure how to answer it. “The two parts of my valve have broken apart !! The part where the wind passes through and the key . what do I do”?? Most valves are constructed in the same manner and for that reason, I will graphically try to illustrate the “usual” order to assemble and disassemble a valve. Some older valve instruments may have a different set-up than our newer instruments and if this is the case, a good repair shop should be contacted. 1. 2. 3. 4.…

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