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Re: Embouchure - chops and teeth

Steve,

I'm a bit surprised that this hasn't been hit by a hundred responses, but
here goes.

1.  There is a large number of teachers that would say he is better off not
having a "flat platform" with which to begin.  I would join them in saying
that all other things being equal, having the incisors angled a bit (140
degrees?) and thus providing a "point" upon which to operate is the
preferred option.  (No, I do not go along with having the teeth "bonded"
though.)  Having recently gotten braces for the second time in my life I
have found wax to be indespensible in transforming the "twin peaks" of the
braces into a single peak.  Of course, this means a new embouchure almost
every 15 minutes.  (clever seque to next paragraph)

I am currently studying trumpet (sorry) with a tubist (who plays with a
major orchestra).   He has demonstrated for me that he can move the
mouthpiece completely from side to side with an acceptable buzz (mostly an
excellent buzz) with the sole exception of pure center.  The textbook
position just plain won't buzz on his face.

Therefore, whereever it works is the preferred spot.  (or as one of my
mentors said, "Stick it in your ear if it sounds good!")

Hope this helps,

Dennis


>Dear all
>
>I have a pal who is a front row cornet type person.  I am a Euph/Trom
>person.  However, the question he asked me is of relevance to any brass
>instrument player and since it is so fundamental I deferred it to this
>illustrious group, so | hope you guys have got some interesting thoughts
>and input for me.
>
>His question, in his own words, was this:
>
>"two years ago I took up the cornet after a ten year break and now
>practice every other day and perform regularly with the local Brass
>Band.  Over the past 5-10 years my top front two teeth (Editors dental
>note: Incisors? and the man is not hideously disfigured....) have
>twisted to the extent that they no longer provide a "flat platform" for
>my lips to operate against.
>
>"I think this may be affecting my ability to reach and maintain high
>notes (editors note: he means C above the stave and above) as I have
>found that by moving the mouthpiece sideways away from the centre of my
>mouth, the problem is significantly alleviated. (Editors note: ie it
>gets easier to do).
>
>"Has anyone experienced this problem?  Is there a good reason why I
>should not develop my embouchure against this new-found flat platform,
>albeit slightly off-centre?"
>
>In case it is relevant, the chap in question is aged 30.  All answers
>gratefully received.
>
>Steve Larwood
>Euphonium, Melbourne Town Band (Derbyshire, UK)
>
>
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Dennis M. Taylor
Shepherdstown, WV
dtaylor@xxxxxxxxxxxx


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