How to - Charles Colin Lip Flexibilities

Zack_Mac

Hello all,

I have had the Charles Colin Lip Flexibilities book for a long time and I have always liked some of the exercises. But it wasn't until the other day that I realized I have no idea how to structure a practice routine out of it. The book is obviously very progressive, but if you were to start at the beginning and then work up to your highest note, you would be dead.

How do you use the book? I'm asking for any of the 3 Vols. Should one start close to the top of their range?

Some one posted some time ago they took a lesson with Allan Colin and he taught them how his father intended the book to be used, but they didn't explain what they learned. I would love to hear about that.

Thanks all

kehaulani · Posted: Sat Mar 14, 2020 11:26 am Post subject:

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CJceltics33 · Veteran Member Joined: 24 Aug 2017 Posts: 475

I would approach a section at a time. I usually do one or two full exercises before I put it down, something different every time.

bspickler · Posted: Sat Mar 14, 2020 12:23 pm Post subject:

nbuligan in Toronto posted his approach to Colin 12 years ago.

https://www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=74989&highlight=smacking
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Craig Swartz · Posted: Sat Mar 14, 2020 12:26 pm Post subject:

So, you have the complete method, correct?

Start at the beginning. I would, however, read the text about the use of the tongue in performing these exercises (actually, in playing the instrument) and be certain to incorporate it into your practice. Very similar text is found in the Irons book as well as many other methods. Without understanding, and using the tongue-level info you'll likely add very little to your skill level at present. You'll really notice it when doing the lip "trilling", which really has little to do with the lips. And read the rest of the text as well to get some idea of what Mr. Colin advocated.

As far as how much to do? When you start feeling fatigue- rest. If you have no problems going between the low F# and the F# above "high C", keep going. I've never thought the reason to practice these exercises was to wear one's self out.

Good luck

harryjamesworstnightmare · Veteran Member Joined: 04 Mar 2010 Posts: 167

Like any other exercise I would recommend working on those you find difficult but within your playing range. These are flexibility exercises, not specifically range building. Play the exercises and the etude from that section. When it's easy, move onto the next. You could spend a week or a month on one "chapter". In my daily practice I normally just play the etudes as I've accomplished the technique so the underlying studies are redundant. Can I play all the way to the end of Book 3? No. But they are invaluable in keeping my embouchure supple. Where I place these my daily practice depends on the day.
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