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randallged · 03-06-2008, 08:30 AM

I like the approach to strength training like an athlete. I added some "cross-training" to my workout in the form of the tenor sax and harmonica. The tenor uses some different facial muscles that don't seem to bother my trumpet playing. (I can switch between sax and trumpet after my chops are spent and continue to play for awhile.) I'm not a great sax player but sit-in with a blues/funk/rock band and play fills and background stuff... mostly low register. The low register on the tenor requires high air flow and hardly any pressure... a good diaphragm relaxing and stretching excersize. Since the tenor is in Bb there is no mental transposition required... I just taught my fingers to think differently. The harmonica requires quick bursts with the diaphragm as you blow and draw air through the harp. Again, not what is required for trumpet playing but uses the diaphragm in a different way. Also, playing different instruments helps me concentrate on the music and not just playing an instrument. IMHO it's all good

Randy

03-06-2008, 08:30 AM	#16 (permalink)
randallged New Friend Join Date: Dec 2007 Posts: 7	Re: Caruso I like the approach to strength training like an athlete. I added some "cross-training" to my workout in the form of the tenor sax and harmonica. The tenor uses some different facial muscles that don't seem to bother my trumpet playing. (I can switch between sax and trumpet after my chops are spent and continue to play for awhile.) I'm not a great sax player but sit-in with a blues/funk/rock band and play fills and background stuff... mostly low register. The low register on the tenor requires high air flow and hardly any pressure... a good diaphragm relaxing and stretching excersize. Since the tenor is in Bb there is no mental transposition required... I just taught my fingers to think differently. The harmonica requires quick bursts with the diaphragm as you blow and draw air through the harp. Again, not what is required for trumpet playing but uses the diaphragm in a different way. Also, playing different instruments helps me concentrate on the music and not just playing an instrument. IMHO it's all good Randy __________________ Randy - King "Super 20" (S1 - circa 1947) - Yamaha Eb/D (YTR6610S) - D.E.G Signature flugel (Made by Willson) - Buescher "400" tenor sax (My only vice...)