Looking to build your trumpet recovery progress? Getting back into playing the trumpet but need to take your techniques further?
In the seventh vlog of the Recover series, Grant Golding explores the theme of expanding technique. Following the foundation of breathing, embouchure, fingers, and tonguing, it's time to push these skills further. Grant emphasizes the importance of approaching each practice session as an opportunity for new learning, echoing Paganini's philosophy that technique is reborn each time you pick up the instrument.
Check out the video of the episode here, or read on for a run-through of what to expect as you boost your trumpet techniques:
How can I make trumpet practice fun?
The heart of expanding your technique lies in curiosity. It's about asking questions like "How long can I sustain this note?" or "How quickly can I execute this passage?" This inquisitive approach isn't just about pushing physical limits; it's about engaging your mind in the learning process, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with the instrument. In essence, get to know your trumpet really, really well!
Grant stresses the significance of fun in practice. Progression in technique happens most effectively when you enjoy what you're doing. Mixing up challenging tasks, like practicing scales, with enjoyable activities, like playing along with a favorite backing track, keeps the learning process fresh and engaging. After all, music is all about having a good time!
Using dynamics in trumpet playing
Expanding technique involves exploring the extremes of your playing. This includes practicing different dynamics (quieter, louder), tempos (faster, slower), and even experimenting with articulations and finger exercises. Grant suggests setting seemingly outrageous goals, like playing a section of the Haydn Trumpet Concerto an octave higher, to challenge and stretch your abilities (but maybe warn your neighbors!)
The ultimate goal of expanding your technique is to make the performance space your comfort zone. By consistently pushing your limits in practice, the standard repertoire and performance situations become more manageable and less intimidating.
Five Practical Steps for Improving Trumpet Technique
Practical advice for expanding technique includes:
1. Playing exercises at various dynamics and tempos.
2. Challenging yourself with crescendos and diminuendos.
3. Repeating exercises multiple times for endurance.
4. Trying difficult passages at faster tempos to improve agility.
5. Stepping away from the instrument for brief periods to refresh your mind.
Expanding your trumpet technique is a journey of continuous growth, curiosity, and enjoyment. By embracing challenges and pushing beyond your comfort zone, you not only improve your playing but also find joy and satisfaction in the process. Remember, it's about pushing yourself in new and creative ways to achieve a higher level of mastery and confidence in your trumpet playing.
- Head to the Teacher Resources page for access to even more tips and tricks for playing the trumpet.
- Want to find out more about pTrumpet hyTech, the premium trumpet without the price tag? Learn more about our lightweight hybrid trumpet.
- The pTrumpet YouTube channel has lots more videos about your favorite instrument. Go to @ThepTrumpet on YouTube.
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