To all you trumpet players out there,

I got screwed this past year. I am currently 2nd trumpet at my highschool jazz band, and the 1st graduated, and i was expected to get the part, however, next year I am still stuck at 2nd. Anyway, I wanna show my bad director up and be able to hit very high notes by the end of the summer. Now I can usually either hit a high D hard, or squeak it out, but thats my limit. Any advice? I am currently switching off between a 1.25 C and a 3 C (Bach`s). Should I get a new mouthpiece? What size? What should i do?

Stick with a bigger mouthpiece, gives a bigger sound in the end. All i can suggest is practice more! the more strength you build up in your lips, the higher you will be able to go. ALSO remember to use your diaphram, it makes a hell of a difference! Don`t switch mouthpieces, its bad for your lips, stick to one of them. AND dont get in a stress about this position in your jazz band thing, often the best jazzers sit on the 2nd or even 3rd chair down. Pete

A big mouthpiece is good, it gives you more volume and power, but can also tire you quickly. Maybe you should just stick with the 3C. For many players that`s big enough. Because it can be tough to get through a show on a big mouthpiece. Perhaps you should go out and find an easy to blowthrough lead piece with a rim and diameter close to a 3C. Do not expect new notes with it, but it should only allow you to play the high stuff a little easier and longer. Secondly tips to build your range and power is most definitely long tones. Long tones in all registers really help me out. I can hold a high C at 120 beats per minute and go up chromatically to high G and giving each note 4 beats in two breaths. With long tones you want to make every note you play effortless, even those high c`s. Don`t start just holding high notes though. Build up. Start on middle c(120 beats per minute playing whole notes) and go down chromatically as far as you can go. Then start at low c and go up. Long tones are awesome, they really help your air get moving. Plus don`t forget your lip slurs!

Hitting High notes isn`t always the best way to prove your ability. Sure it`s fun and sounds awesome, but if you want to be the best, work on the precision of your tounging and armature. Quick fingers are also vital.

For help playing high notes on a trumpet please give me a call.
Dr.Michael E.Schmidt
423-507-9970
trumpetofthelord@yahoo.com

Visit my website located at:
www.trumpetofthelord.com