Thanks for the advice. Zero pressure is a smart technique to play high notes. The pressure reduces the blood stream in your lips and degrades the sound. In general there is not a golden rule to right trumpet playing. I personally believe that good sound is produced only when breath lips and fingers work in full harmony and pressure kills this harmony.
soo im just wondering, would doing the "practicing buzzing without the mouthpiece " effect my tone? cuz.. i like my tone.. ._.
and my director is always saying how when u play, ur lips arent together till they hit the mouthpiece then it causes the virbations in the lips to make the sound.. so.. would it effect it? im afraid to try.....
the best way my band teacher told us how to tell if we were pressing too hard was if in the mirror you could see a white ring on your lips right after you take it off your lips or stop playing.
I know a guy who can play a high c with very little pressure but he can´t play higher than a high c. I think some people need more pressure to play and others don´t need much pressure so I disagree with Dr. G Sto.
@TUStudentVienna the guy is probably doing something to cut off the air like pulling the lip into the teeth in an attempt to create the compression needed to play high, and thereby creating a "wall" he can't get over. Trumpet is not magic, it is pure physics
hey man... awesome tone. I have a question... I've been playing trumpet for 6 years and just recently got into high notes, but i think i had the wrong approach to playing high the first time... i damaged my chops pretty bad. Right now i can hit a e above high C consistently but would like to be hitting at least A's above that by September. Is it possible to achieve this in the amount of time i have, also since i ruined my chops?
I think you should have talked a little about why too much pressure can be bad. Like you said, you do need SOME pressure but too much will cut off the blood circulation to your lips and can adversely affect your playing like potentially shortening your playing time not to mention the big 'ol mark left on your kissables after playing. Useful video as far as introducing the theory behind this goes.
Thanks a lot this video really helped. Before i had trouble playing just an A off the staff for 2 years and from this video i can play notes above that C now! Thanks for posting this
I have a doubt, i cant seem to realize if im aplying wrong pressure on my lips. i mean my upper lip gets kind of a rare shape after i play high notes for a while. but it doesnt hurt or anything, and why is this bad?
There is no such thing as NO pressure. Now, the amount of pressue...that's different. If you want to practice reducing pressure that's smart, but as soon as you practice no pressure first there'll be no pressure, then no tone, then no job.
The Zero Pressure Technique is a name that leaves a little to misunderstanding... The ZPT really means no more pressure than you need to have a full seal on the mouthpiece. I've mentioned it before. It's an obvious (in terms of physics) that without any pressure, it is completely impossible to make friction or a buzz. For instance-- try to buzz your lips with your mouth open as though you were eating an apple. Impossible. However, with minimal pressure, you can buzz tight and high.
That being said-- this video was only meant to explain the idea of the technique, as I took one take of this and put it online to show how it worked. I didn't put major effort into the video, which is why my tone isn't the best. With enough work, you can use this technique to increase your playing duration and range. Perhaps someone else teaches it better... That being said, there's many ways to skin a cat... or play a trumpet, in our case.
@DrGsto Very good video. I've seen in a trumpet shop a tool, to be inserted between the mouthpiece and the trumpet, that has a spring which forward the air out of the trumpet if you press too much. It's basically meant to help not to create pressure at the same time to develop good sound with lips.
The video is just for understanding of the technique. I had a request to put up the idea, not a request for it to be the best high range video ever. I might end up posting another video with better quality in a while if I have the time. I've been busy with too many things to keep my youtube up to date. I'll try to get something a little better online as soon as I can.
As you can see, moderation is the key to success! Pressure can only be moderated, but you are correct that less pressure is better, but it's the pinching of the lips that causes the pressure for beginning brass musicians.
hey, i got a question DrGsto. the music im playing is really demanding mainly with upper register, and even though i use A LOT less pressure than last year (i use very little btw), ive been suffering major lip fatigue to the point that i cant hardly play the c on the staff and takes a few days to recover rather than my usual day or day and a half recovery. any recommendations?
warm up using long tones. if you do already focus on the higher notes. also try note bending, and slurs. the warm up counts if you dont you get fatigued
the larger bore you have, the harder it is to sustain, which means you have to practice endurance, and proper air control..which takes a lot of practice
hi...i wanted to ask you somenthing....well my embochure is not exactly at the midde of my lips but a little tilt to the left...does it affect the sound or have any other disadvantage?
it WILL. i guaruntee it. i play with braces, but i can hit a high C comfortably. I can even crack an E if i really go for it. But it's all about practice, bro.
oh, im a junior, and im first chair third trumpet, and my braces really decrease my range, badly. I can barely go above the staff with a good sound, and im gonna start trying this technique if i can.
There is no such thing as no pressure. As you read this there is air pressure on your lips. The guy doesn't even have a beautiful controlled sound, even "without" the pressure. The string from ceiling thing was a misunderstanding taken form a demonstration by Herbert L. Clarke. It is impossible to play with no pressure. If you have your fundementals in order and you play efficiently than pressure will not be a problem. "First you have no pressure, then you have no tone, then you have no job"!
the zero pressure technique doesnt require a strong embosure at all. i used it when i was a freshman to catch up with the seniors but after a while i figured out i was just hurting my regular embosure also its not a good way to play high because there is not much control. but thats only my opinion because different things work for other people.
To be honest, I'm not really sure. I only played trombone for a few months during a lab band for jazz. I never really tried to get an understanding for the techniques I offer on the trombone. You can try if you'd like- sorry I'm not more help!
before you start buzzing on a mouthpiece or playing on the instrument your suppose to learn how to buzz normally....your teacher is suppose to sit you in front of a mirror so you can see how to put your lips together so you can buzz......
It's all about practice and finesse, it takes time to get it down. But, yes- until you've got it perfected it does make your tone suffer.
This video unfortunately isn't the best of quality, as my camera is not an expensive one- and I do get nervous in front of the camera sometimes. However, the principle is explained, and it can produce a great sound with a high range.
I just began taking trumpet lessons at school from a person that plays the flute... you can probably guess the lessons aren't that great... luckily you posted these videos! THX
I love the people who comment on this video. What this guy says is true. If you believe his words of wisdom you will gradually become a better trumpet player. If you DON"T believe him, try using TONS of pressure and see how your chops feel hitting high notes. If you're a logical person, then you'll think to yourself:
1) High notes are possible (listen to the video)
2) High notes are tough when I use lots of pressure
3) Therefore I must minimize the pressure I use when playing trumpet.
when you demonstrated the ZPT at about a minute, the tone really wasn't as full as you said. This seems like just another way to get high notes easier because the high notes were fuller than the low notes.
yea, but how exactly do you enact the zero pressure method? you just bring your lips as tight as you can and try buzzing your note? i subscribed because i think it's great stuff but i'm still a student and i still don't get it.
The ZPT is really more about the level of air you're using, and the least amount of pressure you can use with your mouthpiece against your lips while keeping a full seal on the mouthpiece. A lip roll is also used (shown in another video) that helps get the ZPT to work. If you have more questions, please send me a private message asking any and or all questions you need answered, and I'll do my best to help you with them (space is limited in comments, but not in pm's).
Yeah, it's not easy to post a video that thousands if not millions of people will see at some point and time... I don't usually like to play for people (without an ensemble), but a friend asked me to try to post some videos for people to learn- so I went with it. Sorry if the video doesn't help you with anything.
Wow, I think I've gotten more out of your lessons than the others I've seen from professionals. It's easier to relate to you and understand what you're saying. Thanks a lot, you've really helped me.
This really is not an insult but i believe you need work on your speech skills. It kind of sounds like you're reading off a card. Try to reduce the times you say "As you can see". You are a good musician but try to be a little more in depth about where to place the lips and exactly what to do with them. The summary of this lesson was, "Don't push too hard." I would like to hear specific tips saying what NOT to do and what to do... Overall, I give this a 7/10.. Keep playing trumpet!
O yeah i forgot to ask (this is a weird question) Does the zero pressure technique affect the length of your playing time? In other words do play longer, shorter or the same.
k thanks. the only problem is that in marching band that would be really hard, causes alot of bouncing, so if you have suggestions, please send them to me.
Technically speaking, the ZPT's name *is* a little confusing by name. The ZPT is based on the use of no more pressure than needed to play the note to be applied. That means you still have to use enough pressure to keep a solid seal on the mouthpiece- as so that air will not leak, but, you need to use the least amount of pressure possible. It will increase your range, as well as your endurance for playing. If you have more questions, feel free to PM me.
... I don't know if there is really such a thing as ZERO pressure, but I get what your saying, pressure def. is the enemy! and really, in the long run, it's less likely you'll get derailed when you get older too... or atleast to whatever level one would have... yeah.
Seems others have gotten results that please them. If you've got reasoning behind why you feel that the technique has no real playing capacity, you are more than welcome to take a poke at it. Considering most of the musicians I know that made it to state symphony music used this method, I feel that it is a working example, and is good for those who learn to use it correctly. This is only a quick post- not a masterpiece...
Thats really interesting, after i play my trumpet for atleast fifteen minutes i would see a round, white circle around my lips i dont think i've ever thought about using that technique. Thanks alot ^_^
I am trying your ZPT and would welcome your advice on the best way of introducing the basic lip curl and ZPT technique gradually, in order to establish it properly, before attempting to use it for a higher range.
Secondly, should the technique of the 'lip curl' be used all the time, even when playing in the lower register, by keeping the 'curl' but relaxing the emouchure, or introduced only when the higher register is needed?
I actually have a video on the lip curl (roll) on my page-- But, the ZPT can be used in any register- as it really means the least amount of pressure required to play at any interval/range ( I know, the name makes it sound confusing).
Some musicians use the lip curl at all times, and others do not- the great thing about music, is that it is individual to everyone, but some things can apply for many that lead to a technique being developed. If you have additional questions, please PM me.
i have tried the ZPT but cant get a full sound and i just cant seem to go any higher or lower without making a terrible and choppy sound. Also, what should if i have a closed throat? I know the best trumpet players are always looking for the relaxed and open throat which i seem to be having trouble getting. If you can help with that I would appreciate it.
If you send me a private message with some details of your troubles playing/ any difficulties with the ZPT, I'll be glad to write you a long, thought out response- with the 500 character count that the comment posting limits at, it's sometimes hard to address the issues that are being asked of me to explain with such a small amount of text. So, please send me a message with any questions you'd like me to try to answer in form of a private message- I'll get back to you ASAP.
how do you get a nice full buzz? i've read mendez (prelude to brass playing) and attempted to follow his advice but can never get the buzz you and many accomplished trumpet players have.
what part of the buzzing are you having a hard time with? If you send me a PM, I will try to diagnose and prescribe a possibly solution for you. Let me know anything you think would be useful, and I'll go from there- Hope to hear from you soon.
I know, there's a lot of "as you can see's" in the video- I've already had a row with someone about it ;). But, I would recommend learning the technique outside of a school year/playing year- as it makes you lose some sound until you've got it down 100%. Also, some people will not be able to learn in this manner, though I do believe most can. I learned to use the ZPT between Sophomore and Junior year of high school. If that doesn't quite answer your question, please send me a pm.
Quick question Dr G: would you recommend as part of a beginner's (say second year player--ie 6th grader) warm up that they buzz and then put the mouthpeice up to the lips? Would such an exercise strengthen their tone? Or, are you just demonstrating about pressure and nothing more. I enjoy your videos--I hope you keep them comming!! B.
In this lesson, I am only demonstrating the Zero Pressure Technique. But, I think that buzzing with the mouthpiece, scales, and slurs are all acceptable methods of warming up. A good way to strengthen your tone is to take out all vibrato, and work on a lyrical study. Possibly the Giuseppe Concone book. That's a trumpet lyrical study. The songs shouldn't be too hard, but keep in mind no vibrato, a full sound at all times, and no smokey sound. That should help some.
Hi Dr Gsto: Thanks for the videos. I started trying to play the trumpet about three years ago. I didn't get a teacher and have been trying to learn on my own. I found your videos and they have cleared a lot of obstacles in my mind. I have been doing breathing exercises and feel that my air has increase substantially. But when I play I get lost in the dymamics and feel like I am losing air. Can you give me any ideas on how to use the air more effectively. Thanks.
a good way to practice this is suspending your mouthpiece (without the trumpet) with a string and seeing if you can buzz on the mouthpiece without touching it with your hands
alright- if you can't buzz with the ZPT, have no fear! R Mendez himself taught his students in the manner that I am about to tell you. First... Try to just buzz your lips at a solid pitch. Make sure it sounds like a solid buzz. Now- try to buzz a C scale when you're comfortable.... Once you can buzz a C scale- now use your mouthpiece. Try to buzz the C scale, then change to another scale (maybe F). Once you can buzz your mouthpiece to scales, try to start playing songs with just....
how do you hit high c's and such with 0 pressure? do you blow harder? i've tried zero pressure, but i can't seem to hit even a high c with zero pressure. i tend to push the trumpet harder to my mouth to hit the high notes. what am i doing wrong or need to work on?
First- sorry for the wait... I had some family problems that needed to be addressed.
The technique's name is slightly misleading.. It really means no more pressure than you need to keep the seal on your lips of the mouthpiece. Now, air pressure is extremely important to hitting higher notes- make sure that you keep enough air pressure to support the higher notes. I learned to buzz before I could play, so my lips know the correct lip variant and air pressure to play. If you need details pm me
"As you can see." lmfao dude calm down its just a video ... its not that much pressure hey its beeter than playing a double g in front of a crowd and u only got 1 shot so calm down
yeah, I've gotta get more relaxed for the videos, I'm with you on that- but I don't like recording when people are around... I know what it's like when you have to bust out the double G for a crowd- it's a completely different experience... Especially when you have to do it near the beginning of the song... I remember when we played Spain for jazz band and I had to take the 1st trumpet part up an octave at the beginning... that was a good time =). I'll try to relax a little for later videos. =)
i need help acheiving higher notes on the alto horn, would this technique work as well on the alto/tenor horn? i have heard that pressure on the lips was bad for you, but never about the "buzzing" technique. i don't do very well after about an hour or two of playing, i seem to blow more air out of the mouthpiece than into the m.p. any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks.
Haha man RELAX!! I can sense that you're nervous when you make these videos when you're explaining things. If you know what you're talking about (which you do), don't worry about it. Keep posting more vids, I'd love to see some more stuff, esp. high range techniques. A little bit less-rushed as your last video haha.
Is there a special way to practice buzz without the mouthpiece or trumpet. Or will you have to do it the old fashion way and sit down and take about 1-3 minutes of your practice time and learn how to do it.
In my opinion, it's just one of those old fashioned, "I've gotta sit down and work on this" routines.... But, there could be specific ways to learn to buzz or to buzz without the mouthpiece... I just try to make sure that when I do it, I focus the buzzing/pitch projection area to the front of my lips where I'd have my mouthpiece- otherwise learning it wouldn't do much good ;). If you have any more questions, about this, please send me a message, I'd have more room to try to help =).
I use both a bach 3C and a bach 1 1\2C in almost everything I play. Though I do own a bach 7C as well as a schilke 12b4 (I think that's the right mouthpiece...)
I prefer my "on pressure" technique! hehe..the sound must be your guide!! your sound isn't good! I suggest you to play with more pressure!! :-). All the best and good luck!
It's a quick video to explain the principle of the exercise- If you'd like to hear an example of it being used in a group setting, listen to the legend of zelda- brass or the low rider song that I have posted in my videos. I appreciate your consideration of the tone as used for an example- tone is extremely important when playing. However, using this technique it is still possible to get a good tone. I did one recording of this and posted it quick to teach the aspect- not the mastering.
hey dr g sto: ive been playing trumpet for a while n unfortunately i gotta get braces, like really soon. alot of pple said (or its just common) that when playing trumpet, it really just hurts when playing w/ braces. would the ZPT be a consideration to, "play with less pain?" or no pain at all?
well, what makes playing with braces hurt- is the fact that many musicians use too much pressure on their mouth- when you play with the braces, the metal and studs hurt the inside of your lip because of the ammount of pressure the metal on metal is creating on the soft tissue of your lip (If I remember correctly). Using less pressure would mean less pain. I've no experiance with braces, so I cannot assure that I am correct- only using my diagnostics as a basis- I hope it works for you.
thats some good stuff and u have a good regular playing embochur but like i mean its almost impossible to tounge like that and if u use that u will get lazy and always use it instead of actualy working to get a smaller appeture
I can try to get a group together to play some, but I do have a few videos on youtube (in my all videos section) where we play some songs as a small group. Including the legend of zelda, low rider, and pilatus: mountain of dragons
Good question- No, I do not purposefully try to sound stoned. I think it depends on where you live- people in my area don't think I sound weird or stoned, but someone from out west has made that comment in the past (in my personal message inbox). If it's a good laugh, and you enjoy the videos, and you might possibly learn something, then I guess it's no harm done though- everyone needs a good laugh.
Once I learned the ZPT, it wasn't too hard to keep it in line. I don't always end up playing every day, and sometimes I go as long as a week without playing. It's normal trumpet chops loss for not playing(for me, anyway). Once you've got the technique down, it's a lot easier to let it go for a little. Some people find that once they learn this technique, it is not to their liking. It's up to the musician to decide for themself once they've learned the technique. Hopefully you can enjoy it.
Well this would seem to help me, but I can't even get any sound other than a horrible tone C or even G (below the scale) when I put no pressure at all. I really couldn't make a note either by buzzing my lips without my mouthpiece. This seems something that definatly needs practice.
the name of the ZPT is slightly misleading... It really means no more pressure than required to make a full seal on the mouthpiece. (aka, no air escapes)
find a more proper way to say what you'd like me to do. I know my voice sounds weird to people out of state... everyone has their own accents and what not.. no-one else seems to hate it. If you'd like to rant, please send a message to me directly, and do not rant on my video. thanks.
I can play pretty with pretty good tone, but when I just buzz, I feel either a leak or sometimes a double buzz and it feels like I have two apertures at times. When I put my trumpet back in the tone is scratchy and very novice like. Is there a reason to this, not being able to buzz on my own without the trumpet?
It takes some time to be able to get the mouthpiece buzz to sound good... Time, practice, and more practice. I might post a video of some buzzing exercises that I can think of at a later date.. A lot of people don't like to do buzzing exercises, and enjoy just playing the horn- which is fine... But I think it's nice to be able to buzz the pitches you want to play- it helps find the center of pitch. My advice is to take some time and effort to practice more- and it should come around for you.
yea hopefully :/. If it's not too much to ask do you think you could do a video and get close up on your embouchure so I can see what your doing. cause honestly I just put the trumpet to my lips and play and I have no clue how to get or what a clean buzz looks or feels like.
It takes time and practice- learn to buzz with just the mouthpiece first... Then once you can get solid buzzes out of the mouthpiece- try to play a song with just the mouthpiece. (solid buzzes)
Once you can do that, try to buzz without your mouthpiece- that's how I learned.
Technically speaking, yes. I have not had 100% mastership of it yet, so I do not have the best quality sound in the SUPER high register... I did, however, use it to play Spain tonight for jazz... and I easily got out a high E (e above the staff) with quite audible pitch =)
I'm sick of the no pressure technique. Maybe you use no pressure, and your range is higher, but it sucks. Your tone gets seriously crappy up there without any pressure. I agree, too much pressure can reduce blood flow to the lips, and alter your pitch, but a little is needed to achieve a full tone in all of your playing range.
It's not an easy thing to learn, and it takes a lot of time... the name is slightly misleading, as I've mentioned to quite a few other people, but the "zero" comes in meaning 'no more pressure than needed to keep a solid seal between your lips and the mouthpiece'- if you lose the seal, everything sounds like junk and you lose a lot of air while trying to play. But, the Zero Pressure Technique was/is used by professional musicians, and their tone is excellent. You just need to learn it properly.
My first trumpet teacher asked me (years ago) to play a note and hold it... he then told me to try to think of it having vibrato without moving my hand- he said it was there all along... so I think you have it to start with or maybe it's possible to learn- not sure... currently learning to stop the vibrato for my classical playing- it's hard!
You definitely have the correct technique down for the Zero Pressure. This is a skill that many Trumpet players never hear about, although it is quite necessary for any quality musician. I enjoyed your video's thoroughly. :) Have you done Corps. before?
ive been teaching myself trumpet and ive actually noticed like after playing high notes the insides of my lips will like get cut on my teeth.... zero pressure might be worth a try lol
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as you can see
funkmastafog 2 months ago
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Decent video and good info. Please also check out my TRUMPETSIZZLE dot c o m site too when you get a chance.
yourbrassinstructor 1 year ago
Thanks for the advice. Zero pressure is a smart technique to play high notes. The pressure reduces the blood stream in your lips and degrades the sound. In general there is not a golden rule to right trumpet playing. I personally believe that good sound is produced only when breath lips and fingers work in full harmony and pressure kills this harmony.
KefaloniaCrete 1 year ago
soo im just wondering, would doing the "practicing buzzing without the mouthpiece " effect my tone? cuz.. i like my tone.. ._.
and my director is always saying how when u play, ur lips arent together till they hit the mouthpiece then it causes the virbations in the lips to make the sound.. so.. would it effect it? im afraid to try.....
Arts0Music0Anime 1 year ago
NICE VIBRATO!!!!!!
tpt1122 1 year ago
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as you can see..
HRSTgaming 1 year ago
the best way my band teacher told us how to tell if we were pressing too hard was if in the mirror you could see a white ring on your lips right after you take it off your lips or stop playing.
andrewbud17 1 year ago
Thank you so much! I applied the techniques in this video right after watching it and I can now play a high E perfectly in tune
koolmoedee95 1 year ago
I know a guy who can play a high c with very little pressure but he can´t play higher than a high c. I think some people need more pressure to play and others don´t need much pressure so I disagree with Dr. G Sto.
TUStudentVienna 1 year ago
@TUStudentVienna the guy is probably doing something to cut off the air like pulling the lip into the teeth in an attempt to create the compression needed to play high, and thereby creating a "wall" he can't get over. Trumpet is not magic, it is pure physics
reddwarf1980 1 year ago
thx for the hope this helps me
ubopgrader 1 year ago
sorry all i hear is u squealing notes not actually playing which is what really matters
aaronbrandyn987 1 year ago
sorry just hear u squealing notes not actually playing anything
aaronbrandyn987 1 year ago
seems like just another way for someone to squeeze out some high notes with odd tone.
jazzmangiant 1 year ago
that was only a super c my friend
DZJackson13 1 year ago
as you can see....
RogerSquawk 1 year ago
im starting like 2 years in so uh how do you buzz....?
M3h7703 1 year ago
hey man... awesome tone. I have a question... I've been playing trumpet for 6 years and just recently got into high notes, but i think i had the wrong approach to playing high the first time... i damaged my chops pretty bad. Right now i can hit a e above high C consistently but would like to be hitting at least A's above that by September. Is it possible to achieve this in the amount of time i have, also since i ruined my chops?
drummingtrumpeteer69 1 year ago
(i'm wasn't sure if my last comment went in or not, so i'm going to comment again)
then where is the pressure coming from?
n0ri514 1 year ago
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then where is the pressure coming from?
n0ri514 1 year ago
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n0ri514 1 year ago
as you can see, you have a jew fro
socredude17 1 year ago
as you can see,, as you can see,, as you can see
YOUchris15 1 year ago
I think you should have talked a little about why too much pressure can be bad. Like you said, you do need SOME pressure but too much will cut off the blood circulation to your lips and can adversely affect your playing like potentially shortening your playing time not to mention the big 'ol mark left on your kissables after playing. Useful video as far as introducing the theory behind this goes.
jjcantu86 1 year ago
Thank you very much!
cobain6262 1 year ago
This is Bull there is no such thing as ZERO pressure !! he means minimum pressure !! This video sucks.
24262748 1 year ago
Thanks a lot this video really helped. Before i had trouble playing just an A off the staff for 2 years and from this video i can play notes above that C now! Thanks for posting this
xcheeseissweetx 1 year ago
Hey man the videos are awesome thxs!!
I have a doubt, i cant seem to realize if im aplying wrong pressure on my lips. i mean my upper lip gets kind of a rare shape after i play high notes for a while. but it doesnt hurt or anything, and why is this bad?
bammarjera 1 year ago
There is no such thing as NO pressure. Now, the amount of pressue...that's different. If you want to practice reducing pressure that's smart, but as soon as you practice no pressure first there'll be no pressure, then no tone, then no job.
chasefreak 1 year ago 4
The Zero Pressure Technique is a name that leaves a little to misunderstanding... The ZPT really means no more pressure than you need to have a full seal on the mouthpiece. I've mentioned it before. It's an obvious (in terms of physics) that without any pressure, it is completely impossible to make friction or a buzz. For instance-- try to buzz your lips with your mouth open as though you were eating an apple. Impossible. However, with minimal pressure, you can buzz tight and high.
DrGsto 1 year ago
That being said-- this video was only meant to explain the idea of the technique, as I took one take of this and put it online to show how it worked. I didn't put major effort into the video, which is why my tone isn't the best. With enough work, you can use this technique to increase your playing duration and range. Perhaps someone else teaches it better... That being said, there's many ways to skin a cat... or play a trumpet, in our case.
Regards,
Dr. G Sto
DrGsto 1 year ago
@DrGsto Very good video. I've seen in a trumpet shop a tool, to be inserted between the mouthpiece and the trumpet, that has a spring which forward the air out of the trumpet if you press too much. It's basically meant to help not to create pressure at the same time to develop good sound with lips.
julienburatto 9 months ago
@DrGsto As you can see, As you can see, As you can see... Are you reading off a teleprompter?
JHoffTrumpeter 1 year ago
@chasefreak !!!!!!! No one will ever be as wise on an instrument than Clarke and Gordon!
dudepower100 1 year ago
As you can see.......Hahahaha
trumpetbeast998877 2 years ago
Comment removed
bricemosk 1 year ago
superman, and what then, where are the notes, what about the sound?
necajev 2 years ago
The video is just for understanding of the technique. I had a request to put up the idea, not a request for it to be the best high range video ever. I might end up posting another video with better quality in a while if I have the time. I've been busy with too many things to keep my youtube up to date. I'll try to get something a little better online as soon as I can.
DrGsto 2 years ago
@DrGsto What about soft things, and nice stacato articulation. I still can't see that you have the control. Try to play Hayden concerto.
necajev 1 year ago
as you can see as you can see as you can see
LOLOLDESUDESU 2 years ago
As you can see, moderation is the key to success! Pressure can only be moderated, but you are correct that less pressure is better, but it's the pinching of the lips that causes the pressure for beginning brass musicians.
signupandmakemoney 2 years ago
good job lol
lacrossucks 2 years ago
holy shit it works...
WillCBACK 2 years ago
as you can see multiplayd with 4 and other bullshit:D
Aurell88 2 years ago
Awesome!
Nukoca 2 years ago
As you can see, this technique kills in marching band,
121panda 2 years ago 9
too bad you sound awful
johnnyrocket999 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
as you can see
monkamoo 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
as you can see
funkmastafog 2 years ago
hey, i got a question DrGsto. the music im playing is really demanding mainly with upper register, and even though i use A LOT less pressure than last year (i use very little btw), ive been suffering major lip fatigue to the point that i cant hardly play the c on the staff and takes a few days to recover rather than my usual day or day and a half recovery. any recommendations?
AznMus1c1an 2 years ago
warm up using long tones. if you do already focus on the higher notes. also try note bending, and slurs. the warm up counts if you dont you get fatigued
who8mahbacon 2 years ago
AznMus1c1an have you considered trying a trumpet with a smaller bore?
RainxSiN 2 years ago
not sure.... all this bore stuff i dont quite get, but maybe i do.
AznMus1c1an 2 years ago
the larger bore you have, the harder it is to sustain, which means you have to practice endurance, and proper air control..which takes a lot of practice
RainxSiN 2 years ago
lol as you can see
thejew2212 2 years ago
ok..as you can see your so ginius...thanks for the lesson..
an2nytrumpet7 2 years ago
"as u can see" this was a nice video
jamalb1993sbcglobal 2 years ago
hi...i wanted to ask you somenthing....well my embochure is not exactly at the midde of my lips but a little tilt to the left...does it affect the sound or have any other disadvantage?
Naug87 2 years ago
i am currently stuck at a high g but i cant buzz without the mouthpeice is there anything that can help get me too?
dalethewhale20 2 years ago
I play with braces and I wonder if this will help.
TrumpetHero11 2 years ago
it WILL. i guaruntee it. i play with braces, but i can hit a high C comfortably. I can even crack an E if i really go for it. But it's all about practice, bro.
TwoGuysandaBong 2 years ago
oh cool thanks dude! what grade are you in?
TrumpetHero11 2 years ago
i'm a sophomore.
TwoGuysandaBong 2 years ago
oh, im a junior, and im first chair third trumpet, and my braces really decrease my range, badly. I can barely go above the staff with a good sound, and im gonna start trying this technique if i can.
TrumpetHero11 2 years ago
There is no such thing as no pressure. As you read this there is air pressure on your lips. The guy doesn't even have a beautiful controlled sound, even "without" the pressure. The string from ceiling thing was a misunderstanding taken form a demonstration by Herbert L. Clarke. It is impossible to play with no pressure. If you have your fundementals in order and you play efficiently than pressure will not be a problem. "First you have no pressure, then you have no tone, then you have no job"!
elliottjohnston 2 years ago
Must you people take everything so literally?
goldeneye234960 2 years ago 2
the zero pressure technique doesnt require a strong embosure at all. i used it when i was a freshman to catch up with the seniors but after a while i figured out i was just hurting my regular embosure also its not a good way to play high because there is not much control. but thats only my opinion because different things work for other people.
trumpetdude590 2 years ago
LOL. Thanks. I need to practice buzzing. ; o; i suck at it.
masterjoker24 2 years ago
1:12 you dont need to move enough to see it to increase pressure
wantu12 2 years ago
Would the notes at 1:35 be useful at all?
solidleadtrpt 2 years ago
not commonly but Ive heard bands when playing jazz hitting them... sometimes is part of a piece
guitarristfrombeyond 2 years ago
not like that
mynamisdan 2 years ago
Okay so with out pressure put on the lips requires a strong ombosure right? What are so good techniques to work on the corners of the lips?
bmxlover111 2 years ago
embouchure
WingedTigerGuy 2 years ago
embrouchure
bmxlover111 2 years ago
this is like the James Stamp thing with the string on the ceiling connected to the trumpet. apparently he got a high c.
gestrumpet 2 years ago
this technique is amazing! it helps ALOT thanks lol
stillawesome917 2 years ago
do this and your other lessons work on trombone?
broha117 2 years ago
To be honest, I'm not really sure. I only played trombone for a few months during a lab band for jazz. I never really tried to get an understanding for the techniques I offer on the trombone. You can try if you'd like- sorry I'm not more help!
DrGsto 2 years ago
how do you still buzz without the mouthpiece? is it just something you get by just barely having the mouthpiece on the lips?
MLGcinamin53 2 years ago
before you start buzzing on a mouthpiece or playing on the instrument your suppose to learn how to buzz normally....your teacher is suppose to sit you in front of a mirror so you can see how to put your lips together so you can buzz......
guitarristfrombeyond 2 years ago
This is incredible, I've just tried it and I can get a sound out, but I think the tone suffers somewhat.
DimitriLozovoy 2 years ago
It's all about practice and finesse, it takes time to get it down. But, yes- until you've got it perfected it does make your tone suffer.
This video unfortunately isn't the best of quality, as my camera is not an expensive one- and I do get nervous in front of the camera sometimes. However, the principle is explained, and it can produce a great sound with a high range.
DrGsto 2 years ago
I just began taking trumpet lessons at school from a person that plays the flute... you can probably guess the lessons aren't that great... luckily you posted these videos! THX
RandomEmmaness 2 years ago
I love the people who comment on this video. What this guy says is true. If you believe his words of wisdom you will gradually become a better trumpet player. If you DON"T believe him, try using TONS of pressure and see how your chops feel hitting high notes. If you're a logical person, then you'll think to yourself:
1) High notes are possible (listen to the video)
2) High notes are tough when I use lots of pressure
3) Therefore I must minimize the pressure I use when playing trumpet.
eugeneragistanac 2 years ago
i cant play like this
mammasboyyoo13 2 years ago
when you demonstrated the ZPT at about a minute, the tone really wasn't as full as you said. This seems like just another way to get high notes easier because the high notes were fuller than the low notes.
jazzmangiant 2 years ago
Comment removed
cherryzippo 2 years ago
yea, but how exactly do you enact the zero pressure method? you just bring your lips as tight as you can and try buzzing your note? i subscribed because i think it's great stuff but i'm still a student and i still don't get it.
KC112358 2 years ago
The ZPT is really more about the level of air you're using, and the least amount of pressure you can use with your mouthpiece against your lips while keeping a full seal on the mouthpiece. A lip roll is also used (shown in another video) that helps get the ZPT to work. If you have more questions, please send me a private message asking any and or all questions you need answered, and I'll do my best to help you with them (space is limited in comments, but not in pm's).
DrGsto 2 years ago
you're kind of awkward
Elliot84 2 years ago
Yeah, it's not easy to post a video that thousands if not millions of people will see at some point and time... I don't usually like to play for people (without an ensemble), but a friend asked me to try to post some videos for people to learn- so I went with it. Sorry if the video doesn't help you with anything.
DrGsto 2 years ago
Wow, I think I've gotten more out of your lessons than the others I've seen from professionals. It's easier to relate to you and understand what you're saying. Thanks a lot, you've really helped me.
ChilliD 2 years ago
thanks man, I will practice this technique...
llLouisArmstrongll 2 years ago
This really is not an insult but i believe you need work on your speech skills. It kind of sounds like you're reading off a card. Try to reduce the times you say "As you can see". You are a good musician but try to be a little more in depth about where to place the lips and exactly what to do with them. The summary of this lesson was, "Don't push too hard." I would like to hear specific tips saying what NOT to do and what to do... Overall, I give this a 7/10.. Keep playing trumpet!
guitarhero380 3 years ago
O yeah i forgot to ask (this is a weird question) Does the zero pressure technique affect the length of your playing time? In other words do play longer, shorter or the same.
Woof2700 3 years ago
k thanks. the only problem is that in marching band that would be really hard, causes alot of bouncing, so if you have suggestions, please send them to me.
wannaplaytrmptjmu 3 years ago
how do you define pressure?
wannaplaytrmptjmu 3 years ago
Technically speaking, the ZPT's name *is* a little confusing by name. The ZPT is based on the use of no more pressure than needed to play the note to be applied. That means you still have to use enough pressure to keep a solid seal on the mouthpiece- as so that air will not leak, but, you need to use the least amount of pressure possible. It will increase your range, as well as your endurance for playing. If you have more questions, feel free to PM me.
DrGsto 3 years ago
tnx
robinorbita 3 years ago
... I don't know if there is really such a thing as ZERO pressure, but I get what your saying, pressure def. is the enemy! and really, in the long run, it's less likely you'll get derailed when you get older too... or atleast to whatever level one would have... yeah.
spankeee3 3 years ago
zero pressure technique is garbage. thee end.
hitman2147691 3 years ago
Seems others have gotten results that please them. If you've got reasoning behind why you feel that the technique has no real playing capacity, you are more than welcome to take a poke at it. Considering most of the musicians I know that made it to state symphony music used this method, I feel that it is a working example, and is good for those who learn to use it correctly. This is only a quick post- not a masterpiece...
DrGsto 3 years ago
Thats really interesting, after i play my trumpet for atleast fifteen minutes i would see a round, white circle around my lips i dont think i've ever thought about using that technique. Thanks alot ^_^
Woof2700 3 years ago
Dear DrGsto,
I am trying your ZPT and would welcome your advice on the best way of introducing the basic lip curl and ZPT technique gradually, in order to establish it properly, before attempting to use it for a higher range.
Secondly, should the technique of the 'lip curl' be used all the time, even when playing in the lower register, by keeping the 'curl' but relaxing the emouchure, or introduced only when the higher register is needed?
Thanks in anticipation,
David
Inleigh 3 years ago
David,
I actually have a video on the lip curl (roll) on my page-- But, the ZPT can be used in any register- as it really means the least amount of pressure required to play at any interval/range ( I know, the name makes it sound confusing).
Some musicians use the lip curl at all times, and others do not- the great thing about music, is that it is individual to everyone, but some things can apply for many that lead to a technique being developed. If you have additional questions, please PM me.
DrGsto 3 years ago
As you can see....
Jebowski 3 years ago
i have tried the ZPT but cant get a full sound and i just cant seem to go any higher or lower without making a terrible and choppy sound. Also, what should if i have a closed throat? I know the best trumpet players are always looking for the relaxed and open throat which i seem to be having trouble getting. If you can help with that I would appreciate it.
KillinMeSmalzz 3 years ago
If you send me a private message with some details of your troubles playing/ any difficulties with the ZPT, I'll be glad to write you a long, thought out response- with the 500 character count that the comment posting limits at, it's sometimes hard to address the issues that are being asked of me to explain with such a small amount of text. So, please send me a message with any questions you'd like me to try to answer in form of a private message- I'll get back to you ASAP.
Thanks,
-Dr. G Sto
DrGsto 3 years ago
how do you get a nice full buzz? i've read mendez (prelude to brass playing) and attempted to follow his advice but can never get the buzz you and many accomplished trumpet players have.
googily23 3 years ago
what part of the buzzing are you having a hard time with? If you send me a PM, I will try to diagnose and prescribe a possibly solution for you. Let me know anything you think would be useful, and I'll go from there- Hope to hear from you soon.
DrGsto 3 years ago
ouch in 1:39 so high lol u play high notes good and its cool when u say as u can see lol
bboyhights 3 years ago
as you can see, i like this video. but how do i adjust to this new embouchure and still maintain my ability to play in high school bands?
RogerSquawk 3 years ago
I know, there's a lot of "as you can see's" in the video- I've already had a row with someone about it ;). But, I would recommend learning the technique outside of a school year/playing year- as it makes you lose some sound until you've got it down 100%. Also, some people will not be able to learn in this manner, though I do believe most can. I learned to use the ZPT between Sophomore and Junior year of high school. If that doesn't quite answer your question, please send me a pm.
DrGsto 3 years ago
Quick question Dr G: would you recommend as part of a beginner's (say second year player--ie 6th grader) warm up that they buzz and then put the mouthpeice up to the lips? Would such an exercise strengthen their tone? Or, are you just demonstrating about pressure and nothing more. I enjoy your videos--I hope you keep them comming!! B.
callmeBe 3 years ago
In this lesson, I am only demonstrating the Zero Pressure Technique. But, I think that buzzing with the mouthpiece, scales, and slurs are all acceptable methods of warming up. A good way to strengthen your tone is to take out all vibrato, and work on a lyrical study. Possibly the Giuseppe Concone book. That's a trumpet lyrical study. The songs shouldn't be too hard, but keep in mind no vibrato, a full sound at all times, and no smokey sound. That should help some.
DrGsto 3 years ago
ok stop saying as u can see
derekw432 3 years ago
Stop sayin "as you can see" lol
otherwise it would be very helpful to mid-level trumpeters
im in the process right now of trying to do that and I can sometimes get out a triple c
66TTRUMPETT66 3 years ago
Hi Dr Gsto: Thanks for the videos. I started trying to play the trumpet about three years ago. I didn't get a teacher and have been trying to learn on my own. I found your videos and they have cleared a lot of obstacles in my mind. I have been doing breathing exercises and feel that my air has increase substantially. But when I play I get lost in the dymamics and feel like I am losing air. Can you give me any ideas on how to use the air more effectively. Thanks.
zhuleon97 3 years ago
a good way to practice this is suspending your mouthpiece (without the trumpet) with a string and seeing if you can buzz on the mouthpiece without touching it with your hands
mandron 3 years ago
I have tried to play with the zero pressure technique but i can't seem to buzz correctly, do you have any suggestions?
trumpetplayer529 3 years ago
alright- if you can't buzz with the ZPT, have no fear! R Mendez himself taught his students in the manner that I am about to tell you. First... Try to just buzz your lips at a solid pitch. Make sure it sounds like a solid buzz. Now- try to buzz a C scale when you're comfortable.... Once you can buzz a C scale- now use your mouthpiece. Try to buzz the C scale, then change to another scale (maybe F). Once you can buzz your mouthpiece to scales, try to start playing songs with just....
DrGsto 3 years ago
how do you hit high c's and such with 0 pressure? do you blow harder? i've tried zero pressure, but i can't seem to hit even a high c with zero pressure. i tend to push the trumpet harder to my mouth to hit the high notes. what am i doing wrong or need to work on?
persondude2 3 years ago
First- sorry for the wait... I had some family problems that needed to be addressed.
The technique's name is slightly misleading.. It really means no more pressure than you need to keep the seal on your lips of the mouthpiece. Now, air pressure is extremely important to hitting higher notes- make sure that you keep enough air pressure to support the higher notes. I learned to buzz before I could play, so my lips know the correct lip variant and air pressure to play. If you need details pm me
DrGsto 3 years ago
"As you can see." lmfao dude calm down its just a video ... its not that much pressure hey its beeter than playing a double g in front of a crowd and u only got 1 shot so calm down
EddieTattoProduction 3 years ago
yeah, I've gotta get more relaxed for the videos, I'm with you on that- but I don't like recording when people are around... I know what it's like when you have to bust out the double G for a crowd- it's a completely different experience... Especially when you have to do it near the beginning of the song... I remember when we played Spain for jazz band and I had to take the 1st trumpet part up an octave at the beginning... that was a good time =). I'll try to relax a little for later videos. =)
DrGsto 3 years ago
do u haVe video of how to master that technique????or how to excercise it....
robinorbita 3 years ago
omg thx ima try it, bc when i play high i push my trumpet against my lips so much that im starting to get an underbite. its so gay..
1337ELiTe28 3 years ago
i need help acheiving higher notes on the alto horn, would this technique work as well on the alto/tenor horn? i have heard that pressure on the lips was bad for you, but never about the "buzzing" technique. i don't do very well after about an hour or two of playing, i seem to blow more air out of the mouthpiece than into the m.p. any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks.
josersdaddy 3 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Wow this really works
yomommaclassof2006 3 years ago
Haha man RELAX!! I can sense that you're nervous when you make these videos when you're explaining things. If you know what you're talking about (which you do), don't worry about it. Keep posting more vids, I'd love to see some more stuff, esp. high range techniques. A little bit less-rushed as your last video haha.
gsayers54 3 years ago
Does this work for other brass instruments?? Like trombone?
koolerkam 3 years ago
but that was just a squeek not a full tone High note
6431 3 years ago
Is there a special way to practice buzz without the mouthpiece or trumpet. Or will you have to do it the old fashion way and sit down and take about 1-3 minutes of your practice time and learn how to do it.
hichez50 3 years ago
In my opinion, it's just one of those old fashioned, "I've gotta sit down and work on this" routines.... But, there could be specific ways to learn to buzz or to buzz without the mouthpiece... I just try to make sure that when I do it, I focus the buzzing/pitch projection area to the front of my lips where I'd have my mouthpiece- otherwise learning it wouldn't do much good ;). If you have any more questions, about this, please send me a message, I'd have more room to try to help =).
DrGsto 3 years ago
Thanks
hichez50 3 years ago
'as you can see'-overload
davis1337 3 years ago
Yeah, I use that fairly often, I suppose. I'll "see" if I can fix it for later videos.
-Thanks for the critique.
DrGsto 3 years ago
what mouth piece are you using
jerkwas 3 years ago
I use both a bach 3C and a bach 1 1\2C in almost everything I play. Though I do own a bach 7C as well as a schilke 12b4 (I think that's the right mouthpiece...)
DrGsto 3 years ago
I prefer my "on pressure" technique! hehe..the sound must be your guide!! your sound isn't good! I suggest you to play with more pressure!! :-). All the best and good luck!
sommetal 3 years ago
It's a quick video to explain the principle of the exercise- If you'd like to hear an example of it being used in a group setting, listen to the legend of zelda- brass or the low rider song that I have posted in my videos. I appreciate your consideration of the tone as used for an example- tone is extremely important when playing. However, using this technique it is still possible to get a good tone. I did one recording of this and posted it quick to teach the aspect- not the mastering.
DrGsto 3 years ago
hey dr g sto: ive been playing trumpet for a while n unfortunately i gotta get braces, like really soon. alot of pple said (or its just common) that when playing trumpet, it really just hurts when playing w/ braces. would the ZPT be a consideration to, "play with less pain?" or no pain at all?
AznMus1c1an 3 years ago
well, what makes playing with braces hurt- is the fact that many musicians use too much pressure on their mouth- when you play with the braces, the metal and studs hurt the inside of your lip because of the ammount of pressure the metal on metal is creating on the soft tissue of your lip (If I remember correctly). Using less pressure would mean less pain. I've no experiance with braces, so I cannot assure that I am correct- only using my diagnostics as a basis- I hope it works for you.
DrGsto 3 years ago
thats some good stuff and u have a good regular playing embochur but like i mean its almost impossible to tounge like that and if u use that u will get lazy and always use it instead of actualy working to get a smaller appeture
trumpetdude590 3 years ago
no, no, i wasnt saying it was a bad thing or anything, i was just wondering.
mynamisdan 3 years ago
Ah, alright. In either event, I believe the question has been answered =). If there's something you'd like to see posted, let me know.
DrGsto 3 years ago
post a sample of yourself playing with a group, or a solo with accompaniment.
mynamisdan 3 years ago
I can try to get a group together to play some, but I do have a few videos on youtube (in my all videos section) where we play some songs as a small group. Including the legend of zelda, low rider, and pilatus: mountain of dragons
DrGsto 3 years ago
do you purposely sound stoned out of your mind in these vids?
mynamisdan 3 years ago
Good question- No, I do not purposefully try to sound stoned. I think it depends on where you live- people in my area don't think I sound weird or stoned, but someone from out west has made that comment in the past (in my personal message inbox). If it's a good laugh, and you enjoy the videos, and you might possibly learn something, then I guess it's no harm done though- everyone needs a good laugh.
DrGsto 3 years ago
Don't you find that ZPT is very high-maintenance? You HAVE to play every day or your playing suffers.
bobilleg74 3 years ago
Once I learned the ZPT, it wasn't too hard to keep it in line. I don't always end up playing every day, and sometimes I go as long as a week without playing. It's normal trumpet chops loss for not playing(for me, anyway). Once you've got the technique down, it's a lot easier to let it go for a little. Some people find that once they learn this technique, it is not to their liking. It's up to the musician to decide for themself once they've learned the technique. Hopefully you can enjoy it.
DrGsto 3 years ago
Well this would seem to help me, but I can't even get any sound other than a horrible tone C or even G (below the scale) when I put no pressure at all. I really couldn't make a note either by buzzing my lips without my mouthpiece. This seems something that definatly needs practice.
atomiceraser 3 years ago
the name of the ZPT is slightly misleading... It really means no more pressure than required to make a full seal on the mouthpiece. (aka, no air escapes)
DrGsto 3 years ago
find a more proper way to say what you'd like me to do. I know my voice sounds weird to people out of state... everyone has their own accents and what not.. no-one else seems to hate it. If you'd like to rant, please send a message to me directly, and do not rant on my video. thanks.
~dr. G sto
DrGsto 3 years ago
Great. Your way is the best way to play trumpet and what you say is very clear.
Perhaps you would add videos about breathing technique.
GozTheGreat 3 years ago
I can play pretty with pretty good tone, but when I just buzz, I feel either a leak or sometimes a double buzz and it feels like I have two apertures at times. When I put my trumpet back in the tone is scratchy and very novice like. Is there a reason to this, not being able to buzz on my own without the trumpet?
trumpetz09 3 years ago
It takes some time to be able to get the mouthpiece buzz to sound good... Time, practice, and more practice. I might post a video of some buzzing exercises that I can think of at a later date.. A lot of people don't like to do buzzing exercises, and enjoy just playing the horn- which is fine... But I think it's nice to be able to buzz the pitches you want to play- it helps find the center of pitch. My advice is to take some time and effort to practice more- and it should come around for you.
DrGsto 3 years ago
yea hopefully :/. If it's not too much to ask do you think you could do a video and get close up on your embouchure so I can see what your doing. cause honestly I just put the trumpet to my lips and play and I have no clue how to get or what a clean buzz looks or feels like.
trumpetz09 3 years ago
I can record one right now... my parents just left ;)
DrGsto 3 years ago
awesome, thanks!..I'll look for it.
trumpetz09 3 years ago
so.. how do you buzz without the mouthpiece at all? I just can't get a clean buzz..
computerdude28 3 years ago
It takes time and practice- learn to buzz with just the mouthpiece first... Then once you can get solid buzzes out of the mouthpiece- try to play a song with just the mouthpiece. (solid buzzes)
Once you can do that, try to buzz without your mouthpiece- that's how I learned.
DrGsto 3 years ago
Well llamabolls vibrato is easy
there are 3 different ways to do it...
1. use your fingers to slightly move the valves
2. move your belly in and out (this is my least favorite)
3. move your chin up and down not too much though
so thats how you do vibrato :)
Kikaderegan 3 years ago
This technique is very useful. So if i use this technique can i still play loud.
184akaDice 3 years ago
Technically speaking, yes. I have not had 100% mastership of it yet, so I do not have the best quality sound in the SUPER high register... I did, however, use it to play Spain tonight for jazz... and I easily got out a high E (e above the staff) with quite audible pitch =)
DrGsto 3 years ago
I'm sick of the no pressure technique. Maybe you use no pressure, and your range is higher, but it sucks. Your tone gets seriously crappy up there without any pressure. I agree, too much pressure can reduce blood flow to the lips, and alter your pitch, but a little is needed to achieve a full tone in all of your playing range.
foofooninny 3 years ago
It's not an easy thing to learn, and it takes a lot of time... the name is slightly misleading, as I've mentioned to quite a few other people, but the "zero" comes in meaning 'no more pressure than needed to keep a solid seal between your lips and the mouthpiece'- if you lose the seal, everything sounds like junk and you lose a lot of air while trying to play. But, the Zero Pressure Technique was/is used by professional musicians, and their tone is excellent. You just need to learn it properly.
DrGsto 3 years ago
Lol oppisite for me I need to learn vibrato. You need to make a video with double tounging and vibrato
llamabolls 3 years ago
DO you get that from using it alot or its just there
llamabolls 3 years ago
My first trumpet teacher asked me (years ago) to play a note and hold it... he then told me to try to think of it having vibrato without moving my hand- he said it was there all along... so I think you have it to start with or maybe it's possible to learn- not sure... currently learning to stop the vibrato for my classical playing- it's hard!
DrGsto 3 years ago
I've got a question. Umm this kinda sounds stupid but..... is that vibrato your using when you play?
llamabolls 3 years ago
I have a natural vibrato in my air-stream, so it is usually present in all music that I play. (good for solos, bad for classical technique)
DrGsto 3 years ago
You definitely have the correct technique down for the Zero Pressure. This is a skill that many Trumpet players never hear about, although it is quite necessary for any quality musician. I enjoyed your video's thoroughly. :) Have you done Corps. before?
DanTellesGuitar 3 years ago
Thank you for videos!!! It is very useful.
alexels123 3 years ago
ive been teaching myself trumpet and ive actually noticed like after playing high notes the insides of my lips will like get cut on my teeth.... zero pressure might be worth a try lol
harezichi 3 years ago
Your videos are very useful and helpful Dr.How about trumpet lesson 5?
brassbeller 3 years ago 2