Keep more weight on the Lower Lip
It is apparent that the lower lip can take more punishment from mouthpiece weight than the top lip. All physical types (III downstreams and IV upstreams) of performers will experience upper lip swelling from applying too much weight on the top lip. From the moment of placement until the mouthpiece leaves the lips, being conscious of this weight factor not only increases endurance but keeps upper lip swelling (the bane of the trumpet player) from occurring. The weight factor favors the lower lip at approximately 40% top lip to 60% lower lip. Delaying as long as possible and even eliminating adding upper lip weight while ascending the instrument will increase one's endurance not only through the gig but well through one's entire playing career.
One may think that this predominant lower lip weight would cause the lower jaw to recede, but just the opposite occurs. This balance of 40-60 encourages the more forward position of the jaw, however slight, and gives added "stability" to the lower jaw support.
TEACHERS WELCOME.
TEACHERS WELCOME!
Since we all are teachers, whether ultimately "our own teacher", teaching others privately or teaching the youth in a school setting such as Middle School, High School or College level, I will be gearing FixYourBrass to include teachers and performers. My posts will have various "topics" (Range, for example), with information for development and maintaining these categories as well as problems that may arise. The posts may be followed by my own "comments" and as to solutions to these problems watch for follow-up posts. So please add your own comments as to create a dialogue regarding said posts as well as any "personal problems" that I can help with. Looking forward to this exchange.
Dave
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