From cornet to trombone

[cubetrom]

Hi folks,

I initially learned on the trombone some 20 years ago, but life got in the way and I ended up selling all my gear. When I came back to playing about 10 years ago, I ended up on the cornet for reasons too numerous and specific to list here.

Recently I've come into possession of a nice playing trombone via a band I belong and have been given the task of covering the 1st trombone part. I'm always up for a challenge and really want to get as fluent on the trombone as I am on cornet, or as close as possible.

I'm mostly having a blast, but a few things are bothering me.

First, my left arm really hurts. I think this is just part of the adaptation period but I have ordered a hand strap to see if it takes some of the pressure off. I think this contributes a lot to the other challenges I am having.

Second, double buzz. It only happens around middle G to Bb and it's worse when my chops are tired. This is a bit discouraging and I don't really know what the cause of it is. I would hazard a guess it is because more of my lips are vibrating into a much bigger and deeper mouthpiece, but I'm at a loss here. I do have a beard now but I know several people who play just fine with one and I'd rather keep it if possible.

Third, my ability to navigate complex or fast passages is shocking. I think this one is more about practice than anything too untoward, but I'm having to take things much slower on the trombone. It feels like my slide arm is lagging behind my tongue.

Fourth, and last, playing low and quiet is a real task. I'm struggling to get trigger low F to sound consistently, and if it's piano or quieter, forget it. Again, this is probably just about practice, but I used to have quite a good low range back when I last played.

I would greatly appreciate any input. Ideally I would be taking lessons but there aren't any trombone teachers local to me and I have to play with a practice mute at home because my neighbours complained, so online lessons are also out of the picture for now.

Sorry for the ramble but I think that's everything covered. Thanks for reading.

[Macbone1]

Several of these issues could be improved by using a BERP device in your practicing. Google it if not familiar.
They are sold many places including eBay.

[cubetrom]

Several of these issues could be improved by using a BERP device in your practicing. Google it if not familiar.
They are sold many places including eBay.

Thanks very much! I wasn't familiar with the BERP. I'll have to get one.

I was doing some Rochut yesterday and I could feel myself getting more comfortable and fluent. Breathing and phrasing are improving too. I suppose it's a matter of time like everything.

[Macbone1]

Thanks very much! I wasn't familiar with the BERP. I'll have to get one.
I was doing some Rochut yesterday and I could feel myself getting more comfortable and fluent. Breathing and phrasing are improving too. I suppose it's a matter of time like everything.

Excellent! And adjusting air speed and air support can fix a lot of issues. Trombone takes more than twice as much air as cornet.

[cubetrom]

It's going well. I appreciate there might be a few bumps along the way. It's a big change but I love the sound and feel of the trombone and my horn is a real joy to play.

Having good results with the Rochut and really thinking about my breathing and phrasing. I pulled out the Arban and did some of the basic exercises watching for intonation and clarity. Slow scales seem to be useful too.

I ordered a BERP device as well, thanks again for the heads up.

I'm not aiming to be world-class or go pro. Just want to feel at ease with the horn and do my best.