Practicing and playing: Practice long notes in all registers and volumes Overlap single tonguing speed with double and triple speeds Melody playing is very important – sound / tone is important even in technical passages Be consistent in your practise Practice throughout the range Never practise tense – but learn to relax Play arpeggios to improve all of the range Think a beautiful sound always Learn how to problem solve: play things slowly / sing the part / speed up gradually An established warm‐up may be useful Think vocally & lyrically Mix the articulations when you are practising Coming in late after a rest can be a habit – do something about it Hear the note before you play the note Maintain the air flow for softer playing Practise tunes for phrasing and expression Do interval exercises Try an accent with more air – not always more tongue Practise briefly on your mouthpiece Don’t over blow – just get a good sound Learn to project your sound – no matter the dynamics Be anxious to play – not afraid to play Always think Performance – even in your practice Try not to push harder for higher notes – practice lip slurs and flexibility exercises TONE QUALITY Practice long ‘straight’ tones When applying vibrato – think about warming up the note Listen to other good players and singers DYNAMICS Can I play a broad dynamic range? Is my crescendo from pianissimo to fortissimo smooth? Can I diminuendo from fortissimo to pianissimo smoothly Can I sustain a loud continuous passage BREATH CONTROL Practice taking in air as deeply as possible and in sufficient quantity to sustain a phrase. Inhale from the lungs – not the chest or shoulders The upper register will develop quicker if proper breathing is applied Do not squeeze the sound as you get higher Focus the sound and blow right through the instrument
ENDURANCE Correct warm‐up and regular intelligent practice are essential Rehearse music faster,slower,louder,softer than required for performance. This will result in greater confidence. If you get tired playing top register – pace yourself in practise and performance Stamina and endurance come from continual rehearsal and practice FLEXIBILITY Learn to change register with ease Do not puff out your cheeks Try and keep the same expression whilst playing Regular flexibility exercises are essential Practice throughout the range