Not exactly an "other brass instrument" but I figured it was close enough. I just got back from a trip where I blew on a conch shell. I figured that the techniques I use as a brass player would carry over to the shell and make it function like a "natural horn" (no valves). I could not get the shell to blow anything but its own fundamental. That part was not too hard. I also tried blowing faster or slower, and then with a firmer or looser embouchure and had no luck. I was able to bend the sound a bit by using cupping techniques with the shell's main opening (the bell, as it were). I thought that I would be able to get the fundamental, a fifth above that, and then the octave. I only had 60 seconds or so, as it was borrowed from the person trying to sell me the shell. I did not want to take too long as I did not intend to make a purchase. I had a blast trying though (grin)!
I wonder if it was my inexperience/lack of ability with the instrument (the conch), or if shell horns are not capable to doing more than just their one note. If I had spent more time, would I have been able to get a wider range of sound out of it?
Anyone else in the group ever play a conch? What kind of results can you get?
- Sara
I wonder if it was my inexperience/lack of ability with the instrument (the conch), or if shell horns are not capable to doing more than just their one note. If I had spent more time, would I have been able to get a wider range of sound out of it?
Anyone else in the group ever play a conch? What kind of results can you get?
- Sara
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