Ok here is the deal, I play trumpet in our jazz band at HS. My range is from what I`ve heard really good. I top off at about double high C and once thoroughly warmed up I can play it pretty convincingly for a decent amount of time. But, I`m only 17 and a senior in HS and I`ve heard that playing that high isn`t good for kids that young. What should I do? I use a 1C and try not to use too much pressure, but is it really healthy for me to do it at this age even if I can? Keep in mind that I don`t sit around all day practicing "scream" stuff I just do it occasionally. Once or twice during a practice. I`d like some advice from the true trumpet pros.
Thnx in advance,
Kris

Hi there. When you say double high C do you mean C an octave above tuning C? or an octave above that?

Either way having a good range is not a bad thing...as long as you are doing it correctly.

Here are some things to be cautious of. Dont use too much mouthpiece pressure (your lips shouldnt be swollen from the pressure)....be careful not to tense up in the throat.

Most of all when you practice make sure all of your notes have good tone. That is more important than playing all those high notes.

Hope this helps.

Vince

I mean the C above high C. How do I compensate for the pressure lost by not pressing the mouthpiece against my lips tightly? Also how do I maintain that range without tightening my throat...more diaphragm perhaps?

the answer is always more diaphragm or more air

Another way to put more air through the horn is to curl the back of your tongue up without closing your throat at all and then channel the air with the front of your tongue. That makes it so your channel of air going through your horn is smaller and more focused, making it easier to play high and and louder.

The answer is NOT always more air

I used to think this...but it is not true.

The fact is that by using more air you can actually blow apart your lips....It takes less air in the upper register than you think.

The key is to find a way to use your emboucher efficently so you are not blowing your lips out.

It is important to make sure your tongue is arched. With out your horn blow cold air onto your hand. Then blow warm air, with cold air your tongue will be high and warm it will be low.

You want your tongue to be high and arched when you are playing high.

Good Luck

Vince