Register Development
The common question: How did (insert player name here) get such an great upper/lower register? Simple answer: They spent and still spend a lot of time playing and practicing in that register. There are no shortcuts. There are specific aspects of technique that will help, but mastery requires time and repetition. The development a wider tessitura (register) on the trombone is achieved by the practice of scales, arpeggios, long tones and etudes in the registers you want to improve.
Voicing
Register voicing is esentially the vowel shape you form in your mouth when playing or buzzing. As a rule, the "default" vowel for the middle register of the trombone is "ah," with the articulation point just behind the upper front teeth.- As you go higher in register, the vowel should gravitate towards more of an "ee," with the tongue moving up and slightly back, while the distance between your teeth stays the same. This last point is crucial to maintaining air support, and avoiding pinching and other sound quality issues. Generally, the point in your mouth where you articulations land will move back. Your air speed should increase (think cooler air).
- Conversely, as you go lower in register, the vowel in your mouth should gradually change to an "oh," with your tongue moving lower. The articulation point will gradually move further forward. Air speed should become slower (Think warmer air).
Embochure
- In the upper register, keep your chin flat and pointing down. The corners of your mouth should be firm and down (no "smiling")
- In the lower register, the embochure should stay relaxed, but not collapse. Avoid puffing your cheeks as much as you can. In the short run, it does slow the air down, but in the long run, it is air wasted that could be used to make sound.
**This page is for general information, and should not be considered a substitute for private instruction with a qualified teacher.