I have a question, i've been playing trumpet for about 4 years now and i just got braces. I've been trying to learn how to buzz better because playing with braces is a whole different story do you have any tips on how to buzz with braces or make it more efficient?
Yes, more air is important, not just taking more in, but moving more through the horn. To do this best you need to be quite relaxed, especially through the throat, shoulders and chest. Posture and stance also has a big impact on the sound quality. Solid posture, toes pointed forward, knees slightly bent (if standing). Practice "crash tones." Start soft and get REALLY loud w/ good tone. Start in the mid-range, go gradually higher. Practice relaxing the throat/body while you do it.
@jharnum HELP!! i Can make a sound, BUT i need to be in the levels of a good sound, i need to make my trumpet sound better!! Bun When I Try, I Squeeze, How Can you help me??
Best advice: relax, breathe as deeply as you can, then play as relaxed as you can. Just sit and take huge breaths, hold 1 note out for as long as you can and REALLY listen to yourself: listen for steadiness, cracks or hisses or pops in the tone, wavering, change of pitch, anything. If you know what the good sound sounds like, try to make your long tones sound like that ideal you have in your head. Then just keep at it.! It does take time, but be patient and you'll get it.
Hello This is my 2nd year playing trumpet, I've had private instructors and play in my HS band. I can play from bottom of the staff F# to an A above the staff. My only problem is that the G and the A are coming out really soft. I play section leader and this is a problem because I need to hit those High notes loud. Any suggestions? I know i need to put more air into but I dont get how to
@plainoldme0316 getting that range on 2nd year you're doing pretty decent =p
could have something to do with trumpet or mouthpiece you're using, i tried playing my old bach before and it is a lot harder to play/pitch high and sounds a lot more airy then the new one i have.
again, can't judge much without hearing you play etc...
but general advice, make sure you're supporting the notes up there with your diaphragm, and not trying to squeeze them out or using too much pressure and relax ;)
I am an experienced trumpet player and can play the C scale and some notes above it,but it doesn't sound as clear or as loud as everyone else. Does this have anything to do with my lip buzzing if it does do you have any tips to improve this?
No, the buzz isn't the problem, but the airflow is, I bet (it's hard to tell for sure w/o hearing you). Most problems on the horn are related to movement of air (as in the problem is not moving enough air). Practice long tones with full breaths (see my vid on breathing). the good thing, the most important thing, really, is that you're listening to your sound and know what you want. Keep at it until you hear the sound you want.
@jharnum HELP!! i Can make a sound, BUT i need to be in the levels of a good sound, i need to make my trumpet sound better!! But When i try to do a different sound, I am squeezing my lips, and I must not squeeze. So im in the level to have a better sound, so how can you help me?
It's difficult to know what to tell you unless I hear and see you play. Try using more air, firm at the corners of your lips, and softer in the middle. Keep practicing, keep trying, and you'll get it. Help from a trumpet player who can see and hear you is best.
Can you make a sound on the horn? Some people have more trouble buzzing and less trouble on the horn itself. If you can make a sound on the horn, stick with the horn and just keep working on the buzz. Some things to try: buzz with REALLY loose lips. My example is a pretty high buzz. It's easier to do lower in the range. Don't stress too much about the buzz. Go right to the horn and just keep at it, and try not to get frustrated. It takes time, but stick w/ it and you'll get it. :-)
@jharnum Thanks i can make a sound but when i try to go high it just comes out loud. im in middle school band when we practice i dont play because im embarrassed because i cant play good at all i really want to be able to actually play.
yeah, I hear you. Trumpet's such a loud instrument and I'm often sensitive about that, too.When you practice, play it loud but try to control the sound 'til you can get it softer. In band, since you're in middle school and still learning, it's okay to get it out there, even if you think it's too loud (it might not be--ask your teacher). You've got to play it in order to learn to make it come out the way you want. If you don't play, you can't learn that. Keep at it, you'll get it!
@psand1120 Be sure to practice a ton. Also, playing trumpet will open up other instruments as options, such as the tuba, trombone, or euphonium. I chose alto sax, and while the wide range of saxophones is nice, as well as being able to switch to the clarinets when I want to, I've always wanted to play a brass instrument as well.
@jharnum Thanks for the prompt reply. About condensation, if it's a normal thing, how do professional players cope with that on the stage? How can they play for so long without clearing the horn?
I often turn from the audience a bit when I do it if the audience is pretty close up, just to avoid what some feel is gross. Sometimes I explain that it's just condensed water from the air, so it's like rain, but nobody buys it. :-)
@jharnum I just started out a few months ago. I can produce the sound and am well on my way, thanks to your vids.
There's just one problem though, After I practice for around 3 mins, there's so much saliva in the body that it's getting difficult to produce nice quality notes and I have to keep blowing off the saliva. After every practice session all the valve chambers are soaked with my saliva. What am I doing wrong? Thanks a lot.
That's great! Glad the vids are helping. You're doing nothing wrong re: saliva. That's normal, but it's not saliva (well, a tiny bit of it is saliva), it's water condensed from your breath. Totally normal. You have to empty it out frequently or you'll get that bubbly sound to your tone. If the horn is especially cold (say if you're playing outside) it's even worse as the moisture condenses out more quickly when the horn is cool. Just keep emptying the spit valve. :-)
I just got my trumpet today, and although I have played before, I'm still very new to it. I can't seem to get the buzz right and when I play a C and switch to a D the sound goes from smooth to not smooth. Any suggestions?
A few things to try: play just the D and get it smooth like the C all by itself. Then go from the D down to the C. It's usually easier going downwards. Don't use your tongue at all, just keep the air moving and move from one note to the next. It's also GREAT to sing the notes. If you can hear what you want that will make playing it MUCH easier. Hope this helps. Best advice: keep at it, keep trying stuff. Good luck and have fun!
Hmmm, interesting question. Des your nose actually get stuffed up with, like, mucus, or does it just feel like it is? Could be you're focusing your air further back in your throat so that your nose has to close itself off in order to force the air through the lips. Are you arching your tongue when you go higher (like when you say eeeeee)? Best advice is to keep experimenting and take a lesson if you can.... Try going higher with the buzz alone, then w/ mouthpiece....
@jharnum Do you have any more suggestions that might help? I didn't try the others yet, just wondering if there are any more stuff that could help. It does get stuffed with real mucus.
Hey Chris-Went over to check out your YT channel. Nice work! Your trouble with getting stuffed up is odd to me. Haven't heard of it before and am puzzled. One suggestion: fix your posture. I see that your head is a bit tilted to the side when you play, which will affect your airflow and relaxedness, so fix that even if it does nothing for your nose. Also, I see that your neck puffs up a bit when you play. This could cause stuffiness, but I'm not sure. Something to try anyway....
Thank you for this video. I play-repeat the buzzing part with vlc and it is a huge help cause I have something that guides me on this specific subject. Since I don't take lessons this is... great.
whistling is very different from the buzz. With the whistle, your lips have a large aperture through which the wind passes, right? Well, for the buzz to work, the aperture in your lips is MUCH smaller. When you push air through that, they'll vibrate, making the buzz. If you try to buzz like you whistle, your lips are too pursed. Try flattening them out (more like a smile) and pressing them together by using the corners of your mouth. Ask a teacher or another player to show you.
@jharnum Well alrighty !! I'll be sure to do that :) you've helped a great deal and THANK YOU . Also since Iwas trying to self teach myself i might need to try a little harder before i go asking for help . I won't give up though. I also realize embouchure is way different than the aperture so I'll need more work seeing that I also play clarinet (& bass clarinet ,tener sax, and that's it for right now . But thanks again!
best advice: don't worry about it. If you're getting a decent buzz, use what you've got and spend more time on the horn itself. Even long tones on the horn are often better than buzzing, or at least as important.....
yeah, it'll most definitely be easier for several reasons: you understand what it means to move air through a horn and concepts like tonguing and other basics, not to mention reading music I'm assuming (and tenor sax is also a Bb instrument like trumpet).
You'll probably find that it's a little more difficult though, especially playing high and things like lip slurs, but playing sax will for sure be an advantage. Congrats! Tenor is one of my favorite instruments to hear and to play.
You're on your own for that one, unfortunately. I don't know much about any of those models. However, what you should look for are bore size (you want either medium large or smaller), dings or other cosmetic issues, valve types, etc. If possible, you should play them first. Best bet is to have a trumpet player play them for you and give them a critique. Buying from a distance is tricky. Use your good judgment. Sorry I couldn't help more, but good luck!
@jharnum hmm i am getting a trumpet soon and i am just looking around and i see your videos a lot. Any advice for me. I wanna start playing a trumpet then move on to something bigger like a tuba or something after i get the lipping right and i am good at a trumpet. but i am a beginner. when i buzz i have my lips closed and my lips kinda like like vibrate. is that what buzzing is kinda on a trumpet? i kinda hum m then blow.
The humming trick works great. Sounds like you''v got the basics of a buzz down. If you can, I'd recommend starting on the instrument you really want to play, so you won't have to play "catch up" later. If trumpet's all you've got (and tubas are muy expensive!), it's a good way to start. Keep buzing as long and steady as you can until you get you're horn and you should have a good jumpstart on making sound on the horn.
Your buzz sounds like a C in pitch. Is there a preferred buzz pitch when starting out? I'm just working through all this on my first brass instrument. Your videos and book are a great help.
it doesn't matter at first. When you get better you can challenge yourself by buzzing a tune, or going from high to low or vice-versa. Pitch-matching (say with a piano or buzzing along w/ a tune) can also be a great way to strengthen/train the buzz. Glad this stuff is helping out!
hey man, I've been playing for about 7 years but I can't play high and I believe its because I use too much pressure and also(like someone else commented on here) I don't think I buzz. I couldn't do the lip buzz thing, tried for about 30 seconds, got the buzz and then held it for about 10 seconds, then I went to my trumpet and I easily hit a clear sounding high C. And it feels like a lot less pressure, feels so effortless. thanks man
The first instrument's always the hardest. Since you already play a wind instrument, you already understand a lot of the basic concepts (breathing/blowing, pitches, etc.). So you shouldn't have too much trouble. Brass is a lot different than woodwind, tho, so be patient with yourself. You should be fine! Let me know how it goes....
thank god XD my teacher told me to try brass cause im having woodwind trouble and this has SAVED me cause NO ONE im around knows how to buzz their lips thanks dude this really helped me alot
I tried it on a mouthpiece also,sometimes air bubbles around the inside of my mouth where my lips are form and prevents me from keeping my lips on the mouthpiece.
This is a pretty common problem. You might be trying to compress your lips together instead of keeping the corners tight and the middle more relaxed. Focus on the tight corners and loose in the middle of the lips. It might help to "grip" the teeth not with the lips but with the muscles above and below. If it still happens, try blowing less hard. Hope this helps! Let me know....
just try to get a steady sound, the fatter the better. At first it doesn't have to be at any particular pitch, just shoot for a solid, long, buzz. It's not gonna sound good and might be a little "spitty" but just keep at it.... If you can make it sound like the viddy you're golden...
@drewy131: sorry for the late reply. Just finished a 115 page exam and couldn't respond....
If you're getting a buzz, you're doing it right. Or right enough, anyway. If you're buzzing, you're using the right muscles that you'll use on the horn.
I've been playing the tenor saxophonre for five years, and I decided to do something new and rent a trumpet for over the summer. I keep trying to buzz with my mouth, but it's not working out well.
However, it IS my first day, and I definitely understand that these things take time. I just want to make sure that I am holding my lips right right away. What's happening with me is that my buzzing stutters. I am tightening the corners of my mouth, but the sound stutters and makes me dizzy :S Help!
Sounds like you're compressing your lips together vertically, trying to push them together all the way across. In fact, the muscles to use are the ones at the side of your mouth; the center of your lips should be fairly relaxed. Use more air and maybe try for a lower-pitched buzz at first. Let me know how it goes.... Good luck!
Tough to say for sure without actually seeing/hearing you. Try rolling your lips inward a little, keep the corners of your mouth tight and do a bit of a smile.... A lower-sounding buzz isn't necessarily bad. If you're getting the buzzing sound that's good. More important is to move it to the horn and see how that goes....
I have an overbite and braces all my notes are perfect exept an octave to low like all my notes are a lower tone its very hard to get consistent high notes any tips??
Ouch, that's a tough one. There are a few devices out there you can wear over your braces which might help. I know some have used waxed paper, or other substances that mold to your particular mouth shape. I don't know too much about this, though, so keep searching. Anybody out there have experience with this problem? Please share....
Hey your video is quite helpful. However, I find it really hard to blow through my lips but that's the only way I can have a constant pitch. Is it supposed to be that tense on the chest?? Thanks!
Glad the vids are helping. Yes, it takes a lot of effort and pressure to push that air through tight lips. With practice you'll be able to relax more and you'll get used to the pressure in the chest, but at first it can seem a little weird. Take a lesson to be sure you're getting it exactly right. Good luck!
you mean really high in pitch? Could be you're pressing your lips together too tightly (hard to tell w/o actually seeing/hearing you). Try tight corners of your mouth (like you ate a lemon) and relaxed in the middle. Good luck.
It'll take practice to buzz higher, but to get there, use lots of air, tight corners, and roll your lips in slightly. Also, if you use the "eee" shape w/ your tongue (high in the middle of the tongue), that will help, too. Good luck!
It was a good teaching but I just can't seem to get the buzz because when I tighten my corners i can't get my center relaxed or loose and when I try to buzz it sounds almost like I'm spitting without actually spitting.... any help?
Tough without actually seeing/hearing you, but keep at it. Buzzing can sound a lot like spitting, so maybe you're doing it. Focus on taking a large breath and using all the air so the buzz sound continues for a long time. Take a big breath, set your lips by using the "mmmm" shape, then blow that air through. Keep at it! If you can, find someone who plays who can give you some live feedback to help w/ what you're doing. Good luck...
Hey thanks for actually replying to my question and it helped. I got together with a friend who played French Horn and now i can eve play a full scale. (Which for me was great) One other question though any tips on how NOT to puff out your cheeks while playing. Thanks for the help.
I've never had a problem with a student after saying, "Don't do that." But maybe if you think about "gripping" your eyeteeth with your lips/cheeks? Give it a try.... But basically, my advice would be, "Don't do it."
The problem I tend to have is that when I tighten the corners of my mouth, I push them against my teeth. Or I have a problem with curling my lower lip into my lower teeth. Is there a way to avoid this?
It's okay to push the lips against the teeth. As to curling the lower lip into your lower teeth, I'm guessing that you mean your lips are going over the tops of your teeth. If this is the case, try closing your teeth a little further.
omfg, thanks man so much. i was stuck @ this for like ages. ughh .. just started learning the trumpet .. it's so hardd !! i can never hit the high notes without playing a scale lol.
No prob. You stumbled on a great way to play higher by using the scale to get up there. After some practice it'll get easier, just keep using the scale as a tool to help you out for now! Nice work.
hey ive been playing trumpet for 4 years now but now that im trying high notes i noticed that ive never buzzed!! but i have a good tone and everything! should i change my ambochoure ( how ever u write that) and start all over again?!??
no! If what you're doing works, don't worry about it! If you start to have problems with range or tone, youmight think about it, but get some advice from a teacher first. If it ain't broke, don't fix it!
LOTS of air, tight corners of your mouth (like eating a piece of lemon) and loose center. Find a teacher or a player who will help you out. Trumpet players are (usually) nice people willing to help newbies.
I have a question, i've been playing trumpet for about 4 years now and i just got braces. I've been trying to learn how to buzz better because playing with braces is a whole different story do you have any tips on how to buzz with braces or make it more efficient?
TDOG537 4 weeks ago
Yes, more air is important, not just taking more in, but moving more through the horn. To do this best you need to be quite relaxed, especially through the throat, shoulders and chest. Posture and stance also has a big impact on the sound quality. Solid posture, toes pointed forward, knees slightly bent (if standing). Practice "crash tones." Start soft and get REALLY loud w/ good tone. Start in the mid-range, go gradually higher. Practice relaxing the throat/body while you do it.
jharnum 5 months ago
@jharnum HELP!! i Can make a sound, BUT i need to be in the levels of a good sound, i need to make my trumpet sound better!! Bun When I Try, I Squeeze, How Can you help me??
TheThunderSponge 3 months ago
@TheThunderSponge
Best advice: relax, breathe as deeply as you can, then play as relaxed as you can. Just sit and take huge breaths, hold 1 note out for as long as you can and REALLY listen to yourself: listen for steadiness, cracks or hisses or pops in the tone, wavering, change of pitch, anything. If you know what the good sound sounds like, try to make your long tones sound like that ideal you have in your head. Then just keep at it.! It does take time, but be patient and you'll get it.
jharnum 3 months ago
Hello This is my 2nd year playing trumpet, I've had private instructors and play in my HS band. I can play from bottom of the staff F# to an A above the staff. My only problem is that the G and the A are coming out really soft. I play section leader and this is a problem because I need to hit those High notes loud. Any suggestions? I know i need to put more air into but I dont get how to
plainoldme0316 5 months ago
@plainoldme0316 getting that range on 2nd year you're doing pretty decent =p
could have something to do with trumpet or mouthpiece you're using, i tried playing my old bach before and it is a lot harder to play/pitch high and sounds a lot more airy then the new one i have.
again, can't judge much without hearing you play etc...
but general advice, make sure you're supporting the notes up there with your diaphragm, and not trying to squeeze them out or using too much pressure and relax ;)
TrumpetGuy6 1 month ago
I am an experienced trumpet player and can play the C scale and some notes above it,but it doesn't sound as clear or as loud as everyone else. Does this have anything to do with my lip buzzing if it does do you have any tips to improve this?
Simsgamer26 5 months ago
@Simsgamer26
No, the buzz isn't the problem, but the airflow is, I bet (it's hard to tell for sure w/o hearing you). Most problems on the horn are related to movement of air (as in the problem is not moving enough air). Practice long tones with full breaths (see my vid on breathing). the good thing, the most important thing, really, is that you're listening to your sound and know what you want. Keep at it until you hear the sound you want.
jharnum 5 months ago
@jharnum HELP!! i Can make a sound, BUT i need to be in the levels of a good sound, i need to make my trumpet sound better!! But When i try to do a different sound, I am squeezing my lips, and I must not squeeze. So im in the level to have a better sound, so how can you help me?
TheThunderSponge 3 months ago
@TheThunderSponge
It's difficult to know what to tell you unless I hear and see you play. Try using more air, firm at the corners of your lips, and softer in the middle. Keep practicing, keep trying, and you'll get it. Help from a trumpet player who can see and hear you is best.
jharnum 1 month ago
i still need help i cannot get it down!!!
iMentalAj 6 months ago
@iMentalAj
Can you make a sound on the horn? Some people have more trouble buzzing and less trouble on the horn itself. If you can make a sound on the horn, stick with the horn and just keep working on the buzz. Some things to try: buzz with REALLY loose lips. My example is a pretty high buzz. It's easier to do lower in the range. Don't stress too much about the buzz. Go right to the horn and just keep at it, and try not to get frustrated. It takes time, but stick w/ it and you'll get it. :-)
jharnum 6 months ago
@jharnum Thanks i can make a sound but when i try to go high it just comes out loud. im in middle school band when we practice i dont play because im embarrassed because i cant play good at all i really want to be able to actually play.
iMentalAj 5 months ago
@iMentalAj
yeah, I hear you. Trumpet's such a loud instrument and I'm often sensitive about that, too.When you practice, play it loud but try to control the sound 'til you can get it softer. In band, since you're in middle school and still learning, it's okay to get it out there, even if you think it's too loud (it might not be--ask your teacher). You've got to play it in order to learn to make it come out the way you want. If you don't play, you can't learn that. Keep at it, you'll get it!
jharnum 5 months ago
@jharnum
Thank you!
iMentalAj 5 months ago
Im going into JR.HIGH and in sixth grade i signed up for band, i hope this helps! ty. ?¿?¿?¿?¿¿¿¿¿¿¿ i found how to make upside down ? lol.
psand1120 6 months ago
@psand1120
sweet! Good luck.
jharnum 6 months ago
@psand1120 Be sure to practice a ton. Also, playing trumpet will open up other instruments as options, such as the tuba, trombone, or euphonium. I chose alto sax, and while the wide range of saxophones is nice, as well as being able to switch to the clarinets when I want to, I've always wanted to play a brass instrument as well.
tjrieves 6 months ago
@jharnum Thanks for the prompt reply. About condensation, if it's a normal thing, how do professional players cope with that on the stage? How can they play for so long without clearing the horn?
tffamx 6 months ago
@tffamx
They cope by emptying it as often as needed. :-)
I often turn from the audience a bit when I do it if the audience is pretty close up, just to avoid what some feel is gross. Sometimes I explain that it's just condensed water from the air, so it's like rain, but nobody buys it. :-)
jharnum 6 months ago
@jharnum I just started out a few months ago. I can produce the sound and am well on my way, thanks to your vids.
There's just one problem though, After I practice for around 3 mins, there's so much saliva in the body that it's getting difficult to produce nice quality notes and I have to keep blowing off the saliva. After every practice session all the valve chambers are soaked with my saliva. What am I doing wrong? Thanks a lot.
tffamx 6 months ago
@tffamx
That's great! Glad the vids are helping. You're doing nothing wrong re: saliva. That's normal, but it's not saliva (well, a tiny bit of it is saliva), it's water condensed from your breath. Totally normal. You have to empty it out frequently or you'll get that bubbly sound to your tone. If the horn is especially cold (say if you're playing outside) it's even worse as the moisture condenses out more quickly when the horn is cool. Just keep emptying the spit valve. :-)
jharnum 6 months ago
I can't do it! :( When I try, all i get is a "fart" kind of buzz...
drstarfires 7 months ago
@drstarfires
Use LOTS more air, more of a "smile" to your lips (and maybe roll them in a bit), and keep at it. It will take some time.
jharnum 7 months ago
@jharnum Thanks! (: It seems to be working better now :D
drstarfires 7 months ago
when i tried i didnt even hear a sound
LEFTY91335 7 months ago
@LEFTY91335
Keep trying. More air, tighter lips, and more persistence. ;-)
jharnum 7 months ago
@LEFTY91335
also: just try it on the horn w/o the buzz first. Might work better...
jharnum 7 months ago
I just got my trumpet today, and although I have played before, I'm still very new to it. I can't seem to get the buzz right and when I play a C and switch to a D the sound goes from smooth to not smooth. Any suggestions?
ohnoaperson543 7 months ago
@ohnoaperson543
A few things to try: play just the D and get it smooth like the C all by itself. Then go from the D down to the C. It's usually easier going downwards. Don't use your tongue at all, just keep the air moving and move from one note to the next. It's also GREAT to sing the notes. If you can hear what you want that will make playing it MUCH easier. Hope this helps. Best advice: keep at it, keep trying stuff. Good luck and have fun!
jharnum 7 months ago
Hey I have a question.
When ever I try going for the high notes, how come when I go for them, my nose gets all stuffed up and then I can't hit it.
Do you know how to resolve or what's wrong?
Thank you.
Gameswars3911 8 months ago
@Gameswars3911
Hmmm, interesting question. Des your nose actually get stuffed up with, like, mucus, or does it just feel like it is? Could be you're focusing your air further back in your throat so that your nose has to close itself off in order to force the air through the lips. Are you arching your tongue when you go higher (like when you say eeeeee)? Best advice is to keep experimenting and take a lesson if you can.... Try going higher with the buzz alone, then w/ mouthpiece....
jharnum 8 months ago
@jharnum Do you have any more suggestions that might help? I didn't try the others yet, just wondering if there are any more stuff that could help. It does get stuffed with real mucus.
Gameswars3911 8 months ago
@Gameswars3911
Hey Chris-Went over to check out your YT channel. Nice work! Your trouble with getting stuffed up is odd to me. Haven't heard of it before and am puzzled. One suggestion: fix your posture. I see that your head is a bit tilted to the side when you play, which will affect your airflow and relaxedness, so fix that even if it does nothing for your nose. Also, I see that your neck puffs up a bit when you play. This could cause stuffiness, but I'm not sure. Something to try anyway....
jharnum 8 months ago
nice video! it is so helpful
ntnumusic 8 months ago
Hello!!! nice video.
check out my ballad i worked hard on it please look at it.
Thanks
Gameswars3911 9 months ago
Thank you for this video. I play-repeat the buzzing part with vlc and it is a huge help cause I have something that guides me on this specific subject. Since I don't take lessons this is... great.
Melsi1979 9 months ago
i can whistle but not buzz..any help . Your advice did not help whatsoever.
h8aification 9 months ago
@h8aification
whistling is very different from the buzz. With the whistle, your lips have a large aperture through which the wind passes, right? Well, for the buzz to work, the aperture in your lips is MUCH smaller. When you push air through that, they'll vibrate, making the buzz. If you try to buzz like you whistle, your lips are too pursed. Try flattening them out (more like a smile) and pressing them together by using the corners of your mouth. Ask a teacher or another player to show you.
jharnum 9 months ago
@jharnum Well alrighty !! I'll be sure to do that :) you've helped a great deal and THANK YOU . Also since Iwas trying to self teach myself i might need to try a little harder before i go asking for help . I won't give up though. I also realize embouchure is way different than the aperture so I'll need more work seeing that I also play clarinet (& bass clarinet ,tener sax, and that's it for right now . But thanks again!
h8aification 9 months ago
I can't buzz low... any ideas??
Joeobrown1 10 months ago
@Joeobrown1
best advice: don't worry about it. If you're getting a decent buzz, use what you've got and spend more time on the horn itself. Even long tones on the horn are often better than buzzing, or at least as important.....
jharnum 10 months ago
@Joeobrown1 it takes time to develop. Just do what you can. and practice the low as you can.
massdrewski 10 months ago
I've been playing Tenor sax for about 3 years going on 4.. will it be kind of easy since i already know how to firm up and stuff?
Zeori12 1 year ago
@Zeori12
yeah, it'll most definitely be easier for several reasons: you understand what it means to move air through a horn and concepts like tonguing and other basics, not to mention reading music I'm assuming (and tenor sax is also a Bb instrument like trumpet).
You'll probably find that it's a little more difficult though, especially playing high and things like lip slurs, but playing sax will for sure be an advantage. Congrats! Tenor is one of my favorite instruments to hear and to play.
jharnum 1 year ago
@jharnum Oh yeah and one more thing, Should i get a TR300 Bach(used), LJ Hutchen(new) or a Yamaha YTR-2320(used) Answer back ASAP Please
Zeori12 1 year ago
@Zeori12
You're on your own for that one, unfortunately. I don't know much about any of those models. However, what you should look for are bore size (you want either medium large or smaller), dings or other cosmetic issues, valve types, etc. If possible, you should play them first. Best bet is to have a trumpet player play them for you and give them a critique. Buying from a distance is tricky. Use your good judgment. Sorry I couldn't help more, but good luck!
jharnum 1 year ago
@jharnum hmm i am getting a trumpet soon and i am just looking around and i see your videos a lot. Any advice for me. I wanna start playing a trumpet then move on to something bigger like a tuba or something after i get the lipping right and i am good at a trumpet. but i am a beginner. when i buzz i have my lips closed and my lips kinda like like vibrate. is that what buzzing is kinda on a trumpet? i kinda hum m then blow.
joeyyyyyyyyyyyyyybel 10 months ago
@joeyyyyyyyyyyyyyybel
The humming trick works great. Sounds like you''v got the basics of a buzz down. If you can, I'd recommend starting on the instrument you really want to play, so you won't have to play "catch up" later. If trumpet's all you've got (and tubas are muy expensive!), it's a good way to start. Keep buzing as long and steady as you can until you get you're horn and you should have a good jumpstart on making sound on the horn.
jharnum 10 months ago
Your buzz sounds like a C in pitch. Is there a preferred buzz pitch when starting out? I'm just working through all this on my first brass instrument. Your videos and book are a great help.
feroast1 1 year ago
@feroast1
it doesn't matter at first. When you get better you can challenge yourself by buzzing a tune, or going from high to low or vice-versa. Pitch-matching (say with a piano or buzzing along w/ a tune) can also be a great way to strengthen/train the buzz. Glad this stuff is helping out!
jharnum 1 year ago
hey man, I've been playing for about 7 years but I can't play high and I believe its because I use too much pressure and also(like someone else commented on here) I don't think I buzz. I couldn't do the lip buzz thing, tried for about 30 seconds, got the buzz and then held it for about 10 seconds, then I went to my trumpet and I easily hit a clear sounding high C. And it feels like a lot less pressure, feels so effortless. thanks man
aworld3456 1 year ago
@aworld3456
sweet! Glad to hear it.
jharnum 1 year ago
The basic ideas presented here are sound. Good job.
sandtrumpet 1 year ago
i play alto and tenor sax and want to learn to play trumpet will it be hard for me to learn how to?
jenito101 1 year ago
@jenito101
The first instrument's always the hardest. Since you already play a wind instrument, you already understand a lot of the basic concepts (breathing/blowing, pitches, etc.). So you shouldn't have too much trouble. Brass is a lot different than woodwind, tho, so be patient with yourself. You should be fine! Let me know how it goes....
jharnum 1 year ago
does this work for the french horn too??
annimale12345 1 year ago
@annimale12345
yes! Any brass instrument, really...
jharnum 1 year ago
Thanks i hope this helps me i have a test tomorrow and hopefully i do well because of this tip =D
PakoooFx 1 year ago
@PakoooFx
good luck!
jharnum 1 year ago
thank god XD my teacher told me to try brass cause im having woodwind trouble and this has SAVED me cause NO ONE im around knows how to buzz their lips thanks dude this really helped me alot
purplegloop 1 year ago
I tried it,but its not working.
I tried it on a mouthpiece also,sometimes air bubbles around the inside of my mouth where my lips are form and prevents me from keeping my lips on the mouthpiece.
RoanMaruka 1 year ago
@RoanMaruka
This is a pretty common problem. You might be trying to compress your lips together instead of keeping the corners tight and the middle more relaxed. Focus on the tight corners and loose in the middle of the lips. It might help to "grip" the teeth not with the lips but with the muscles above and below. If it still happens, try blowing less hard. Hope this helps! Let me know....
jharnum 1 year ago
how would I know if I am buzzin right if I dnt have my trumpet
drewy131 1 year ago
@drewy131:
just try to get a steady sound, the fatter the better. At first it doesn't have to be at any particular pitch, just shoot for a solid, long, buzz. It's not gonna sound good and might be a little "spitty" but just keep at it.... If you can make it sound like the viddy you're golden...
jharnum 1 year ago
@drewy131: sorry for the late reply. Just finished a 115 page exam and couldn't respond....
If you're getting a buzz, you're doing it right. Or right enough, anyway. If you're buzzing, you're using the right muscles that you'll use on the horn.
jharnum 1 year ago
I've been playing the tenor saxophonre for five years, and I decided to do something new and rent a trumpet for over the summer. I keep trying to buzz with my mouth, but it's not working out well.
However, it IS my first day, and I definitely understand that these things take time. I just want to make sure that I am holding my lips right right away. What's happening with me is that my buzzing stutters. I am tightening the corners of my mouth, but the sound stutters and makes me dizzy :S Help!
LaurenHPNo1Fan 1 year ago
@LaurenHPNo1Fan
Sounds like you're compressing your lips together vertically, trying to push them together all the way across. In fact, the muscles to use are the ones at the side of your mouth; the center of your lips should be fairly relaxed. Use more air and maybe try for a lower-pitched buzz at first. Let me know how it goes.... Good luck!
jharnum 1 year ago
@LaurenHPNo1Fan I have the same problem. I didn't realize that just buzzing and making the sound could be so difficult.
xXGeneralShockXx 1 year ago
@xXGeneralShockXx
For some it can be easier to skip the buzzing part (keep working on it tho) and move right to the horn. Give that a try...
jharnum 1 year ago
@LaurenHPNo1Fan i approve. tenor saxophones and trumpets rule :D
spazzout123 1 year ago
LOLOL at 1:18
Jeradman51 1 year ago
ok i keep trying but it just sounds like fart. can u help me? maybe be more specific?
pizzawithmushrooms94 1 year ago
@pizzawithmushrooms94
Tough to say for sure without actually seeing/hearing you. Try rolling your lips inward a little, keep the corners of your mouth tight and do a bit of a smile.... A lower-sounding buzz isn't necessarily bad. If you're getting the buzzing sound that's good. More important is to move it to the horn and see how that goes....
jharnum 1 year ago
I have an overbite and braces all my notes are perfect exept an octave to low like all my notes are a lower tone its very hard to get consistent high notes any tips??
3liteX 1 year ago
@3liteX
Ouch, that's a tough one. There are a few devices out there you can wear over your braces which might help. I know some have used waxed paper, or other substances that mold to your particular mouth shape. I don't know too much about this, though, so keep searching. Anybody out there have experience with this problem? Please share....
jharnum 1 year ago
Hey your video is quite helpful. However, I find it really hard to blow through my lips but that's the only way I can have a constant pitch. Is it supposed to be that tense on the chest?? Thanks!
renyutnyut 2 years ago
Glad the vids are helping. Yes, it takes a lot of effort and pressure to push that air through tight lips. With practice you'll be able to relax more and you'll get used to the pressure in the chest, but at first it can seem a little weird. Take a lesson to be sure you're getting it exactly right. Good luck!
jharnum 2 years ago
i keep on sounding like an elephant
NOTbrokenEASILY 2 years ago 2
you mean really high in pitch? Could be you're pressing your lips together too tightly (hard to tell w/o actually seeing/hearing you). Try tight corners of your mouth (like you ate a lemon) and relaxed in the middle. Good luck.
jharnum 2 years ago
Hey, great video it reaaallly helped me but I can't get that high buzz. My buzz is always low can you help me out? Thanks 5 stars
Shialuk 2 years ago
It'll take practice to buzz higher, but to get there, use lots of air, tight corners, and roll your lips in slightly. Also, if you use the "eee" shape w/ your tongue (high in the middle of the tongue), that will help, too. Good luck!
jharnum 2 years ago
worth watching if you have trouble buzzing
MrMacrulz 2 years ago
It was a good teaching but I just can't seem to get the buzz because when I tighten my corners i can't get my center relaxed or loose and when I try to buzz it sounds almost like I'm spitting without actually spitting.... any help?
TINHD 2 years ago
Tough without actually seeing/hearing you, but keep at it. Buzzing can sound a lot like spitting, so maybe you're doing it. Focus on taking a large breath and using all the air so the buzz sound continues for a long time. Take a big breath, set your lips by using the "mmmm" shape, then blow that air through. Keep at it! If you can, find someone who plays who can give you some live feedback to help w/ what you're doing. Good luck...
jharnum 2 years ago
Hey thanks for actually replying to my question and it helped. I got together with a friend who played French Horn and now i can eve play a full scale. (Which for me was great) One other question though any tips on how NOT to puff out your cheeks while playing. Thanks for the help.
TINHD 2 years ago
I've never had a problem with a student after saying, "Don't do that." But maybe if you think about "gripping" your eyeteeth with your lips/cheeks? Give it a try.... But basically, my advice would be, "Don't do it."
;-)
jharnum 2 years ago
Alright thanks I'll just keep at it and don't think I wont come back for more advice down the line..
TINHD 2 years ago
No prob! I'll be "here." Good luck!
jharnum 2 years ago
The problem I tend to have is that when I tighten the corners of my mouth, I push them against my teeth. Or I have a problem with curling my lower lip into my lower teeth. Is there a way to avoid this?
SnowDrummer06 2 years ago
It's okay to push the lips against the teeth. As to curling the lower lip into your lower teeth, I'm guessing that you mean your lips are going over the tops of your teeth. If this is the case, try closing your teeth a little further.
jharnum 2 years ago
i did the buzz.....yeah
disgaea01majin 2 years ago
ironically i couldn't do it when my trumpet teacher showed me how to...now i can lol thanks
julia313p 2 years ago
Good down to earth explanation. Thanks.
RevWrona 2 years ago
omfg, thanks man so much. i was stuck @ this for like ages. ughh .. just started learning the trumpet .. it's so hardd !! i can never hit the high notes without playing a scale lol.
randomn3sz 2 years ago
No prob. You stumbled on a great way to play higher by using the scale to get up there. After some practice it'll get easier, just keep using the scale as a tool to help you out for now! Nice work.
jharnum 2 years ago
OMG thanx it actually worked i got it on the first time i tried it keep the videos comming they work gud job
mexerican123 2 years ago
thanks! Love the usr name....
jharnum 2 years ago
thanks man i got it the first time i tried
kmzubi 2 years ago
And does your lower lip curl in as you buzz? Or are both lips supposed to be about even?
iamthegreatest1 2 years ago
What is your mouthpiece placement?
iamthegreatest1 2 years ago
now i kno why i sucked at brass instrument tryouts...
TheMarinaWong17 2 years ago
That sounded silly.
Superphilipp 2 years ago
trompeters advices are very confusing
jacquillo 2 years ago 2
Very helpful. thanks!!
yegors 2 years ago
hey ive been playing trumpet for 4 years now but now that im trying high notes i noticed that ive never buzzed!! but i have a good tone and everything! should i change my ambochoure ( how ever u write that) and start all over again?!??
paupau93 2 years ago
depends if your embouchure is really messed up. There are many ways to form it and not every way works for everyone. Depends alot on your lip size.
pedroesteban86 2 years ago
oh :/ well may be ill upload a video of me playing the trumpet so you can see how my embouchure. is that ok? n_n
paupau93 2 years ago
you bet.
jharnum 2 years ago
no! If what you're doing works, don't worry about it! If you start to have problems with range or tone, youmight think about it, but get some advice from a teacher first. If it ain't broke, don't fix it!
jharnum 2 years ago
This is the sort of video I was looking for, thank you
droptheleash0 3 years ago 3
Your very helpful thank you for putting the trumpet videos on youtube.
monkeyat12 3 years ago 8
thanks
TeamScholars 3 years ago
I'm going to play the trumpet but I'm really strugling to buzz, please help me.
CatherineMoonLight 3 years ago
LOTS of air, tight corners of your mouth (like eating a piece of lemon) and loose center. Find a teacher or a player who will help you out. Trumpet players are (usually) nice people willing to help newbies.
jharnum 2 years ago
thanks dude
TeamScholars 3 years ago 6