Intonation #1

Manny Laureano discusses intonation problems on the trumpet for young and amateur players.

[@eggypratama6649]

Thanks Manny, I hope you can continue this series as soon

[@tonygodoy4553]

Manny...what a great, systematic approach to teaching/learning how to adjust for better intonation. I work with students from middle school through the collegiate level, and will absolutely take these to heart. God bless!

[@MrPrincetrumpet]

Wow, you've made my day! Your description is exactly who this was made for. If you run across any situation that merits further discussion or questions, please write a note here and I'll do my best to answer in a helpful way.

[@tonygodoy4553]

@@MrPrincetrumpet That sounds great! Thanks for sharing your expertise!

[@FACUNDOTROMPETA]

Entonar en el unísono es una de las cosas más trabajosas y difíciles que hay. Felicitaciones maestro! Muy pocos se enfocan en eso! Gracias!

[@stephenburden8947]

Really great stuff. Thank you for the content

[@jambajoby32]

Manny, do you find the upper tones of the trumpet tend to be naturally sharp? I’ve been combating this issue and so many times, upon taking the tuner to videos and recordings, the pitch in the upper tones tend to be sharp after all

[@MrPrincetrumpet]

Yes, it can be a problem! It's the reason I play the equipment I use but the best thing you have is your ear. I know that sounds simplistic but it's true. That and a friend or two to play duets with are crucial to developing the kind of sensitivity one needs to be successful at ensemble playing. That said, the more relaxed a player is, the less the upper register will be a problem assuming all the aspects of a healthy embouchure are in place. Any pinching or tightening will disrupt a solid, healthy tone. A good mouthpiece is key. Without that, you will fight a losing battle, especially when you're tired.

[@jambajoby32]

@@MrPrincetrumpet I’m on the same brand horn as well. It’s new & im still settling into it! I’ve been reinforcing my approach (blow, sing, play) & it’s been helpful! Part of it seems I need more exercise lmao the other part is possibly UNdoing some of the tension habits I created. Either way, practicing good habits is the way to it, it seems!

[@MrPrincetrumpet]

@@jambajoby32 hey, I was thinking about your question a little more and I wanted to suggest something. Remember that keeping the corners forward a bit so that they stay consistently in contact with your round rim is very helpful in keeping the pitch stable. As they ascend into the upper register, players will pull back and away, making a lower pitch adjustment quite a bit more difficult. If you're playing in B major it's not a big a hassle as it is when you're playing in D or Eb major.

[@jambajoby32]

Thanks Manny

[@MrPrincetrumpet]

My pleasure. As you can tell, it was done a bit on the fly but as I make others in this series I will add more info. My hope is people have a bit of fun with it.