Mouthpiece "Scar?"

Kingallen · Regular Member Joined: 18 Sep 2021 Posts: 17

So this may not fit the forum topic of "fundamentals" however, after finishing my final Bandcamp and playing for about 6 hours each day in the high C area, I've been left with a dark mark right above my top lip where the upper half of my mouthpiece typically sits. Is there any way to get rid of it? Is it permanent? Is it because I'm playing with too much pressure? I think it's kinda cool because Wayne Bergeron has it too, but my mom is worried.
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Halflip · Posted: Wed Aug 03, 2022 7:33 am Post subject:

Have your mom talk to Wayne Bergeron's mom.

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kehaulani · Posted: Wed Aug 03, 2022 8:37 am Post subject:

Some players have marked 1/2 rings in their upper lip and some with none. I have no scars so can't relate. I would have a good teacher/coach take a look at how you play and see if they can see any tell-tale reasons.
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BudBix · Posted: Wed Aug 03, 2022 8:45 am Post subject:

Impossible to diagnose over the Internet. It's not uncommon to have a visible ring on your lip when you've been playing hard for a few days. If you're in pain and it doesn't go away seek medical attention.

AndyDavids · Veteran Member Joined: 08 Jun 2020 Posts: 125

JayKosta · Posted: Wed Aug 03, 2022 10:00 am Post subject: Re: Mouthpiece "Scar?"

cbtj51 · Posted: Wed Aug 03, 2022 10:27 am Post subject:

I've had a permanent mark on my upper lip as long as I can remember. If memory serves me, I first started noticing it in Summer of '68 during a very busy Drum and Bugle Corps season. Over the years, it has become more "topographical" in nature and guides my embouchure setup with no detriment.
I have played the same rim since 1971 and that has likely given the "scarring" more definition. Without moustache (rarely) it is somewhat visible, but as a part of my features for more than 50 years, no big whoop!

Talk to your teacher about it to get proper direction!

Life is Short, find the Joy in it!

Mike
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peanuts56 · Regular Member Joined: 21 Nov 2021 Posts: 52

I've barely played over the last 20 years, and I still have a bit of a mark on my upper lip. I was a high pressure player as a kid. I managed to get that ironed out in my 20's. The mark never quite went away.

huntman10 · Posted: Fri Aug 05, 2022 3:15 pm Post subject:

I am old enough to remember Doc talking about that mark on the "Tonight" show maybe as far back as the 60's. He claimed he could spot any trumpet player by it. Maybe a bit of a slight exaggeration, but I know my 'stache leaves room for the rim!
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cheiden · Posted: Fri Aug 05, 2022 3:20 pm Post subject:

I would be concerned about a dark mark. It's certainly likely that it's due to too much mouthpiece pressure. A good teacher should be able to tell you if your particular mark is a little or a big concern.
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