Patrick9654

After many years (33) i am returning to my lost love. I forgot how much I enjoyed playing the trumpet.

I know that buzzing is good for the chops, but is there a limit to how much buzzing you should do per day? Or a recommended amount? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Also is it better with or without using a mouthpiece?

rowuk

Patrick,
I recommend dividing your practice time into 3 equal pieces :
1) breathing, long tones and slurs
2) Tunes and repertory
3) Etudes and technical studies

in that order. You should never practice music when tired so it comes BEFORE the chop busters. If you can find additional time (in the car, on the toilet......), feel free to buzz as much as you want. It has never accomplished anything for me, but other people that I respect swear by it. DO NOT LET BUZZING REDUCE YOUR TIME ON THE HORN

__________________
Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.

Vulgano Brother

Personally, I would avoid buzzing on the toilet unless you live alone!

Buzzing without the mouthpiece can work against us, if we let our chops to whatever they want in pursuit of "the buzz." I would suggest buzzing with the mouthpiece and a mirror, keeping your eyes on your chops until certain that you aren't doing anything weird. When slurring, allow a little glissando between the notes--the mouthpiece by itself doesn't notch like when it is connected to the trumpet, so don't try.

Buzzing can be a great warm-up and ear trainer--have fun!

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www.letsbuildhope.org

rowuk

VB,
good idea with the mirror, there is one in the car and toilet too!

__________________
Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.

Patrick9654

Thanks everyone for the replies.