Comeback Players - Tone Quality

connorajoe · New Member Joined: 03 Nov 2018 Posts: 1

Hello everyone,

I am trying to improve on my tone quality and being in tune in all registers. Lately, I’ve been practicing with a drone and using the James Stamp method and it seems to work but I find myself manipulating my embouchure for the lower registers to get the quality I want and to not be so sharp. However, I feel like this decreases my accuracy if I need to switch registers quickly. Does anyone have any advice or explanation why I am 20-30 cents sharp from low Bb and below? Thanks

EdMann · Posted: Thu Jan 25, 2024 12:01 pm Post subject:

As both a comebacker who started from scratch 17 years ago and now a part time working player, I've noticed that my Olds tends to play flat in that register warming up, but my Bach is more on the money. After I'm warm, it's all good, but per Stamp, connecting the registers is key. I hope you found a good teacher for the method. DIY on that is not a great idea, IMO.

ed

JayKosta · Posted: Thu Jan 25, 2024 2:13 pm Post subject:

I suggest not worrying about what an electronic tuner actually shows - strive for a good resonant tone quality, and pitch that 'sounds right' in the context of the music.
If you can't achieve the 'sounds right' part, then investigate if other 'fixes' can be made.
_________________
Most Important Note ? - the next one !
KNOW (see) what the next note is BEFORE you have to play it.
PLAY the next note 'on time' and 'in rhythm'.
Oh ya, watch the conductor - they set what is 'on time'.