Posted by Kevin Wass on February 01, 2002 at 15:21:01:
In Reply to: A Chop Issue/Question posted by Arnold on February 01, 2002 at 15:00:56:
I'm always a little scared to mess with embouchure, especially when I can't see or hear you play. I've had some similar soreness after playing for long periods of time, especially in band or quintet gigs where you play pretty much constantly. I found that some of this came from puffing my cheeks in the middle and low registers, which cleared up as I began to play with a slower and more efficient airstream. So, I think you're half right-your corners are too loose for the way you are blowing the horn, but the real problem may be in the way you are blowing. Try playing with a slower, thicker airstream and practicing a lot in the middle to lower register at mf and lower dynamic. Always have a relaxed, resonant sound as your goal, and forget about the embouchure. I think you'll feel (and hear) some results.