trumpet 101

Ive been playing for three and half years, i practice regularly, an hour or more a day, i practice the lip slurs in the arbans book and buzz at pp for 20 minutes and work on my jazz music for additions in november. what is realy getting me is this: ill play just perfect for about two days and then ill not sound so great. i just got out of marching season and am transitioning to concert. does anyone no whats going on with my playing?

ltg_trumpet

its like your body... you may run strong for a while but when you get tired... not so hot... its all about consistency my friend... play smart and have fun...

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super collegiate tri-tone (raw brass)

Markie

only you can answer this question.
Ask yourself:
1)What am I doing during the last three days that effect (affect) my playing?
2)What is it about the last three days thats got me spooked?
If you've seriously assessed 1&2, and can find nothing getting in the way, then you may want to consider the next possibility.
Have you set yourself up mentally to struggle during the last three days?

PiperJon

I used to have a similar problem when I was in the bagpipe band in college. The pipes, like the trumpet, is a physically demanding instrument, particularly if you're in marching band: breath control, marching, elbows out, focus, focus, focus. And when I was on long playing jags prior to contests, I would have to take a small but significant break where I didn't play, didn't think of the instrument, didn't HEAR the music 24/7. In other words, I was fatigued.

I completely agree with the above posters as well. Look at the possibility that you may be psyching yourself out. "Oh, hell, here come THOSE days."

Instrumental music is not only about making good sounds, it's about self discovery. It's the source for expression.

My main points: Relax. Be good to yourself. Rest. Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.

Pj

Outkastah

Take a day off lol, thats why I do... maby buzz a little neer the end of the day..... A LITTLE!

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crazyandy88

The most helpful thing I've found for consistency is consistent practice. Create a routine that you play EVERY day. Include all of your fundamentals ie: breathing, long tones, slurring, range expansion etc. Spend at least half of your practice on these basics and the other on music for ensembles/auditions. Write out your routine so it is concrete...not abstract like your imagination. You play like you practice...so practice smart and consistent!

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Andy Sites

rowuk

Marching band is poison for smooth playing. The sheer physical effort on the field, lack of sound being reflected off of the walls to our ears and type of music really drain our bodies and soul.

Expect 4 weeks of transition time until you have completely settled down.

Nothing is for free and the cost of business marching is VERY high.

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Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.

Al Innella

If you can, try alternating heavy playing days with light playing days, at least when you practice at home. While practice is essential for progress, too much practice could hurt your lips , affecting tone, endurance , flexibility, etc..

crazyandy88

Agreed...marching band sucks (literally). I only have one marching band performance left after 9 years...I can't wait to be rid of it! I always like to make sure that I get in a practice room or even the bandhall and do 15-20 minutes of nice, quiet playing immediately after marching if possible. This seems to help me remember what's right when I come back after a few hours of rest for some real practice.

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Andy Sites

trumpet 101

so how do any of you make the transition from marching to concert smoothly?