How do you keep your chops good while playing the trumpet

Question

okay, so i've been playing trumpet for 6 years. i'm going to be a sophamore in highschool and i'm looked up to be one of the better trumpet players. i'm first part with 2 other sr.'s. and first part means playing high. i have good tone. i can verbrato. i have a good sense of music. the only problem i have is playing high. i've been putting more air into my horn, but then i just get dizzy. i try tightening the muscles in my lips, but i just get tired. so what are some ways to have good ambasure while playing high? and does chapstick really help?

Answer 1

There are a few very important things that we must learn to do, as trumpet players.

We need to learn how to compress the airstream in order to play in the upper register. In reality, this isn't a whole lot different from being able to whistle high notes. The most efficient way to accomplish this is by using the tongue to help compress the airstream. Also, it's a given that we need a well-supported airstream.

We need to be able to use our lips to provide resistance for the faster moving airstream. In order for us to be successful, we need to be able to move our lips together, progressively, to achieve higher overtones. Mouthpiece pressure will work against our efforts to move our lips together. Basically, we need to learn how to grip the airstream with our lips. In doing so, properly, we will provide a cushion of muscle for the mouthpiece to rest upon.  

At this point in time, you may need to upgrade your equipment. This might mean aquiring a new, or a good quality used professional trumpet... and/or a mouthpiece. Choosing the right mouthpiece for our needs is extremely important. The most efficient mouthpiece will allow us to do everything mentioned above, and it will allow us to achieve a good sound throughout our entire range, at all dynamic levels. It's extremely important that the mouthpiece matches both the horn and the player... for the type of music that you will be playing. If this is the case, please try to find a well-qualified mouthpiece consultant to help you.

Practicing regularly is a must. If you want to learn to play in the upper register, you must also practice in the upper register.

If you have a good trumpet teacher, listen to what he or she says. If you don't have one, I would suggest private lessons with a qualified individual.

About your chapstick question...  there are better products out there. Here is one made for musicians: http://www.chopsaver.com/

Find your way, and have fun playing the trumpet!