It's been my theme lately for people with questions about physiology, ergonomics, musculature, etc. etc. to seek a trained (medical) expert as opposed to professional/amateur performers. Brass playing hasn't been nailed down to a strict science yet, which is why everyone does things differently and can have radically different approached.Originally posted by: PatRyan44
Thanks to the responses to my original post. The jury passed successfully yesterday. (A listerner told me it was "serious badassery;" made my day.)
What I discovered worked for me was to warm up carefully, then play the whole solo full out, then not play anything for about 15 minutes, then play the solo for real. All the high range was there with this technique, and the fluffs in the earlier runthrough were gone.
But I'd still like to know the physiology of the upper lip to understand exactly what is being wamed up -- capillaries, muscles, etc. -- and its effect on the music.
Thanks to all.
Oystein Baadsvik's warmup is the hardest, highest, fastest, and loudest thing he can think of! Might as weel start out flying!!! For me...I need a good hour in the morning to connect myself to my instrument...but that's ME!
Your procedure is a very good one, with a good warmup, easy runthrough, 15-minute rest..and go for it! In terms of "physiology" of the lips in the high range you must focus more on air movement and oral cavity than the musculature. Think air and shape, not body.
Hope this helps!