|
|
- Altismal Fingerings
- F# (above the top note, F). First, play a high F using the alternate fingering (register/octave key + middle C + index finger on top pearl key). Now while holding the F, depress the side Bb key (third one down). You may need at least a 3 reed to do this, and it takes good support and a strong embouchure. You may add the right hand index finger to its pearl key to make this note easier.
- C (high C above high F). Play a high F# as above but tighten embouchure to its fullest. Takes much practice.
- B (right below high C). Very weird. Play a low Eb and a high Eb at the same time without depressing the register/octave key.
- A (low A below bottom Bb). This one's really a joke, but it works. Play a low Bb (lots of abdomen support) and cover the bell with your leg (thigh). If it's a serious song, just transpose the note an octave higher.
- Alternate/Trill Fingerings
- F#/Gb - F + F# key (lowest side key)
- Bb/A# - B + right hand top pearl key. Great for arpeggios.
- C/B# - B + second side key down
- High E - octave/register key + middle C + key below middle C
- High F - octave/register key + middle C
- Reed Testing
- How to make sure your reed is wet, and playable. Here's how to do it. Prepare your reed and gooseneck and have your mouthpiece and gooseneck together. With the palm of your left hand, cover the hole which connects the neck the body and make sure there's a good seal. Make sure the octave key is shut tight, but don't push too hard! Suck in on the mouthpiece and take your mouth off. If nothing happens, then there's a reed or octave key problem. If it waits a few seconds and then pops, you're ready to play.
- Good Playing Techniques
- Sit up straight, or stand. Use a flat seat chair if available.
- Play with an open throat. In other words, pretend to make an O sound, not a pinched E sound.
- Breath only from the abdomen for the best sound. Suck in your gut!
- Keep your mouth even on the mouthpiece, with a reasonable amount in your mouth.
- Relax, and practice hard!
- Jazz Technique
- *** PRACTICE ALL OF YOUR SCALES!!!
- Drag a bit, unless its a march (which in jazz it probably won't be)
- Improvise in phrases.
- Play notes in the scale / arpeggio of the chord over the current measure.
- Play smoothly, but with articulation.
- Get into the music, and again, relax!