Trumpet: Pedal Tones

   Pedal tones are bass tones not part of the trumpet's conventional register.  The pedal register is not difficult but it is a bit tricky until you develop the feel for producing it.
   I have read some fanciful suggestions for playing pedal tones on a trumpet.  For instance, one trumpet authority insists pedal tones are all but impossible to produce unless you extend the valve slides before attempting to play the super low notes.  While another authority is equally convinced pedal tones are possible only if you use alternate fingering.  But the most interesting account I read belongs to the authority claiming the player comes and goes from being able to play pedal tones.  That is...if they can play them at all.  Seems it has to do with a trumpet's bore size.
   Phooey.
   The bores on my horns range from .468 to .470.  But I have played the pedal register (and did so for years) on a .459 bore.  As to the mouthpiece (another pet peeve of pedal tone critics) I play pedal tones (three octaves) using a Parduba #5.  And prior to the Parduba # 5, I used a Bach 10.5E.  So forget the need for mouthpieces that would look more at home on a trombone.
   The easiest way to start playing pedal tones is by playing first space F.  Then let the entire face relax while holding first space F and drop to pedal F.  Continue practice in this fashion down to pedal C until you develop the feel for producing the notes.  And once you grasp the feel, continue developing the pedal register until you are able to descend (chromatically) to third pedal C.
   Do not extend slides.  And do not use alternate fingering.
   Pedal tones require total relaxation of the various facial muscles.  They also require a broad airstream.  So constantly think "Taw" as you play them.  And do not worry about tongue level.  The "Taw" takes care of it for you.
     Proper pedal pitch might be a problem at first.  But it will improve once you master the register.
   I play the pedal register (three to four times) as my daily warm-up.  And I have done so for years.  Pedal tones help correct the embouchure, add endurance, flexibility and help form the habit of directing the lips towards the mouthpiece.

Total eclipse of the heart -Bonnie Tyler-

Trumpet: Study Six

   This study goes to double high C.  Rest between systems and do not over-practice.  If you falter trying to play this study, do not dishearten.  Simply remain on Study Five and continue work on the range chart until your high notes "catch up".
   For individuals who have no difficulty playing this study, repeat the entire exercise (as a separate study) one octave higher than I have written.

 

Trumpet: Study Five

   This study goes to high G.  Sufficient air and a stable embouchure are critical when performing in the upper register.  And there is no way to gain consistency in this register without the presence of both.
     Players falter in the upper register because they do not adhere to a sensible and consistent daily practice.  Trumpet playing is one of those things where you get out of it pretty much what you put into it.  And what you "put into it" must be put into it correctly.  Your ability as a player is a physical reflection of your work.
   I love to see trumpet players succeed.  And if the studies I offer on this site helps any one of them achieve their goal, my purpose has been met.

Trumpet: Study Four

   When building range on a trumpet two temptations should be addressed: pulling back on the instrument and using excessive lip tension.
   Pulling back on the instrument interferes with lip vibrations.  And this encourages the player to add more pressure in trying to reach the note.  Not good.
   Lip tension, without power in the airstream, is not sufficient in producing the vibrations necessary for a strong upper register.  And even if the note is reached (by tension) it will be weak and have a tinny sound.
   This study goes to high E.  If you cannot reach high E, remain on Study Three while increasing your range on the Daily Range Chart.

Trumpet: Daily Range Chart

   A chromatic range chart is one of the best ways to build range on a trumpet since it allows concentration on individual notes.

Hold each note four counts (or longer) and pause several seconds between measures.  If the pitch of any high note is questionable, play the note one octave lower to establish pitch.  Then attempt the high note again.  Do not strain to reach any note.

 

Trumpet: Study Three

   This study is a continuation of the seven valve positions.  Start at a comfortable dynamic and take a complete breath each time.  A metronome is an advantage in keeping consistent speed.
   If reaching high C is a problem, remain on this study until it is not a problem.  Also it is a good idea to practice chromatically from middle C to high C if high C creates difficulty.
   Play this study as written.  Then repeat the study triple tonguing followed by slurring each measure.
   Remember to take frequent breaks and not to over-practice.