What is the point of lip slurring down on pedal tones for trumpet?

Question

i play the trumpet and i want to increase my range. right nor i can consistently hit high C. somebody said that if you do lip slurs down in the pedal register it will really help you in the higher register also. is this true and if so, why?

Answer 1

I think you should try that, maybe talk to some other trumpeters to find out what worked for them because it's different for everyone.  Also, try picking up a French horn and try to practice on that along with your trumpeting.  I've never played trumpet (horn, in case you couldn't tell), but while playing mellophone I've noticed that because I've been using such a small embouchure, the mellophone mouthpiece was much easier to use on the higher register.  Since a mellophone mouthpiece is basically a trumpet mouthpiece in shape, this might actually work for you as well.  The idea I'm trying to convey is that because the muscles get such a huge workout on a horn mouthpiece, then maybe you'll be able to use those strong muscles to control your higher register.

One thing to remember, though, is that most of your register will be your air.  Perhaps this is the theory for the low register slurs because our throats are so open down there that if you get used to that, you will be used to pushing tons of air for the rest of your range.  Your embouchure will help to control where that air goes, but without enough at the top register, then you won't be able to get as clear a tone.  Try relaxing your throat when going up, pretend you're an octave lower, and really push your air.  Try it every day, and see if that helps.  Good luck!

Answer 2

Right. It's all about control and lip conditioning.  If you can control notes in the pedal range you can control it just about anywhere (full disclosure:  I can't do pedal tones.  My range is a solid D, with an occasional E and I can squeak out an F).

I once saw Arturo Sandoval in San Francisco.  After a screeming bebop solo (just unbelievable range) he switched gears and started to improve in pedal tones!  And it sounded good!  Almost like a trombone.  Amazing.  I've never heard anyone with that kind of technical ability or range.

I suppose if it's good enough for Arturo it's okay by me.

Answer 3

it strengthens your embrouchure.

Also make sure that you're not tightening up on your upper register (you can't force high notes, it won't be pretty), and make sure you're supporting it from your diaphragm.