Ed Castro's Blog

As a trumpet player, I have always sought ways to improve my technique and sound production. Lately, I’ve been working on more buzzing in my practice routines. Since I spend a fair amount of time in the car, I do some of that work while driving. Either free-buzzing (just lips without a mouthpiece) while driving or grabbing my trumpet mouthpiece when sitting in a slow-moving traffic jam and buzzing a few Schlossberg exercises, I find myself practicing a good amount of buzzing as part of my routine. I think about some of these things.

1. Free Buzzing
   Free buzzing involves buzzing one’s lips without the mouthpiece, allowing you to concentrate on the airflow and embouchure. It’s an effective way to warm up and develop a robust, steady air stream. I’ve made it a point to start my practice sessions with free buzzing, particularly by buzzing a concert “F” for as long as possible, taking deep breaths to reset and relax my embouchure—3 or 4 times at a soft volume.
2. Buzzing Scales Patterns and Arpeggios (with and without mouthpiece)
   Buzzing scales patterns and arpeggios from the middle register and expanding upwards and downwards help my flexibility and intonation. Short patterns like the scale patterns in the Stamps book of warm-ups.
3. Buzzing Simple Melodies (with and without mouthpiece)
   Buzzing familiar tunes or simple melodies helps me internalize the music and sharpens my intonation awareness. It’s crucial to focus on playing the melodies accurately, making adjustments as needed to achieve pitch perfection.
4. Buzzing Glissando (with and without mouthpiece)
   Beginning with narrow intervals and gradually expanding, buzzing glissandos have enhanced my overall control and ear training. This exercise challenges the embouchure and reinforces the connection between my ears and the embouchure.

Air Attacks
In addition to buzzing exercises, I’ve also focused on air attacks. Here are some valuable air attack tips that have proved helpful to me in playing:

1. Think “Poo” for Clean Attacks (James Stamp)
   To achieve a clean attack with instant breath support, think “poo” as you start a note. This mental cue helps engage the diaphragm and ensures each sound’s precise, focused beginning.
2. Strive for Immediate Focused Sound
   Consistency in tone quality is vital. By striving for an immediate and focused sound, I’ve maintained a steady pitch and minimized any wavers in my playing. However, it might take a few attempts before getting and quick response while working on air attacks.

Returning to these fundamental practice tips, including buzzing exercises and air attacks, has been super helpful in my practice habits.