Symphony for Mouthpiece and Headjoint

Instruments finally all passed out, the new beginning band sits waiting for the next instruction from me. I ask them to set their cases on the floor in front of them, with the handle toward them. Then they are to open the case and take out ONLY the head joint (for flutes) or the mouthpiece (for the clarinets and trumpets). I show the clarinets how to put on a new reed. It always amazes me that they can get it so wrong if I don't show them close up and personal the right way. Then, cases closed, and stashed under chairs we're ready to go.

The first are the flutes. This is when I am going to see who will love playing flute and stick with it, and who is going to struggle getting this first sound, and maybe give up before they ever really get it. I've gotten better over the years at demonstrating and being able to say and do things that help coax that first sound from a budding flautist, but it still remains somewhat of a mystery, this shaping of the lips just so and the placing of the plate just so, and blowing just the right amount of air. Some kids get it right away. Some get it pretty soon, and some get it later. If they are patient and don't give up, and try it at home a million times, they WILL all get it.

In this group, in this year, we are having great success right off the bat. The flutes blow a head joint note with gusto, and hold it for 4 counts.

Next it's the clarinets' turn. With the reeds all correctly positioned on the mouthpieces, and the ligatures tightened and pulled down enough, teeth against the top of the mouthpiece and lower lip cushioning the reed, they blow their first squawking note. I make a joke about scaring away every goose in town, but they blow and hold for 4 counts.

Finally it's the trumpets' turn. I show them how to buzz their lips, getting a laugh. I guess it's funny seeing a grown up making such a rude noise, and I tell them they can practice that sound any time they want (which they immediately start doing) even if they don't have their trumpet or mouthpiece handy. Then they put their mouthpieces to their lips and get a buzz going. Hold for 4 counts.

So now we are ready for our grand finale of the day, the Symphony of Mouthpieces. Sitting up straight, feet flat on the floor, backs away from the chairs, mouthpieces in place- they will breathe on beat 4 of my count and blow for 4 counts, rest for 4 counts and blow again. We take turns, playing in different combinations,tutti and soli. Much giggling for the silly sounds we are making, but this is where it starts. And this is one of my favorite things to do.