Lazorphaze

Manny, how do you go about building endurance, especially for higher notes above the staff? because we have a recording session in April, and my chopses are going to be dead in no time. not that it really matters, the orchestra is TERRIBLE, but i want to have some satisfaction before i leave trumpet behind.

Manny Laureano

Dear LP,

Endurance is only achieved when a technique that is well-grounded is employed for greater and greater periods of time. You can make any embouchure stronger even if it's a weak one but a weak, unsupported embouchure will take much longer to develop endurance. Prolonged stress of a weak embouchure is a great way to destroy good, fundamental sound production.

Endurance, then, is a natural occurance that is best allowed to develop over time. Solid fundamental practice and attention to artistry are the ingredients that make good chops.

ML