Lesson 1: Posture & Hand Position
Lesson 1 will cover how to properly take out your instrument, how to sit with proper posture, left & right hand position, and how to put the instrument away safely.
Opening the Case
Open the case flat on the floor. Make sure the buckles, latches and handle are facing downward. If you have a brand name on your case, that should be on the top part of the case when you open it.
Sitting Posture
Stand in front of the chair, feet shoulder width apart. Sit down on the edge of the chair with your back straight. Reach the crown of your head to the ceiling. Make sure you do not lean back or slouch in the chair.
Left Hand Position
Left hand lines up with levers. Keep your wrist naturally straight in line with your left arm. Consider purchasing a velcro strap to help you with holding your horn.
Right Hand Position
Right hand goes inside of bell. Shape your hand like you are cupping water and wave like a beauty queen. Imagine the bell is a clock-your middle knuckle should be facing 2:00-3:00.
Playing Position
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Always bring the horn to you! Do not move your head to the horn. That is what causes us to do strange things with our posture.
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Only use your biceps to lift the horn.
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Make sure your mouthpiece and lead pipe are angled down at 35 degrees.
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If the angle is too high this will cause upper lip pressure and thin, sharp sound.
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If the angle is too low then our airstream will be restricted causing a weak sound.
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Keep elbows and arms relaxed.
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Both wrists should be mostly straight.
On or Off the Leg
Shorter and younger students are recommended to rest the horn on the leg until they are big enough to support the weight of the horn on their right hand. Larger and taller students will probably have the best posture if they play off the leg. If you are going to play with the horn on the leg, make sure you swing your right leg out so you can set up with the best horn angle possible. See some examples below.
Little Person-on the leg
Tall Person-off the leg
If you choose to play on the leg, make sure you swing your right leg out to guarantee you have the best posture and set up for your horn angle.
