Welcome to the second vlog in the Recover series, where Grant Golding guides trumpet players through the initial steps of reigniting their musical passion.
This episode is all about that pivotal moment – the first day you decide to take your trumpet out of its case after a break. It's a journey from silence to song, from pause to play. Read through this walkthrough and then check out the video for yourself and start your own trumpet recovery!
Grant's first piece of advice? Start with a clean slate, quite literally. Giving your trumpet a thorough cleaning isn't just about hygiene; it's symbolic of a fresh beginning. It's a way to reconnect with your instrument, preparing both it and yourself for the journey ahead.
Then, dive into the world of inspiration. Watch videos that reignite your passion for music – be it a world-class band, an orchestral masterpiece, or even a pop song with a killer horn section. Finding what excites you about music is crucial at this stage. It's the spark that lights the fire of your comeback.
Grant highlights the importance of using a practice mute, especially in the early stages. It's not just about muting the sound; it's about building confidence, free from the fear of judgment. Pair this with backing tracks – from simple melodies for beginners to intricate orchestral pieces for advanced players – and you've got a recipe for effective, enjoyable practice.
Posture is next on the agenda. Standing straight, keeping the wrists aligned, and holding the trumpet comfortably – these are the pillars of a good playing stance. Take cues from professionals like Alison Balsom, who exemplifies perfect posture. Grant also introduces the concept of the instrument as a 'home setting' – a comfortable, natural position that should feel like second nature.
Playing the trumpet is likened to a form of musical yoga. It's therapeutic, combining deep breathing and physical relaxation with the vibration of music. This approach not only benefits your playing but also your overall well-being.
Grant suggests an ambient backing track exercise for this week's practice. Start with the central note and let your creativity flow. This exercise isn't about precision; it's about letting air flow through the instrument and feeling the movement and vibration as you play.
Finally, Grant introduces two core techniques to focus on: flutter tonguing and practicing with a light touch. These techniques are foundational and will recur throughout the series, helping to build a robust and versatile playing style.
Now that you know what to expect, check out the full video of this Getting Back Into Trumpet episode:
So, as you embark on this journey of rediscovery, remember: start clean, find your inspiration, practice posture and mindfulness, and embrace the therapeutic nature of trumpet playing. This is just the beginning and every note counts.