Klarinet Archive - Posting 000352.txt from 1998/08

From: "David C. Blumberg" <reedman@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] re:Aerobic playing, and quick technique (was Tpt.playing heart
Date: Wed, 12 Aug 1998 07:51:39 -0400

On Tue, 11 Aug 1998, David C. Blumberg wrote:
> Trumpet Playing Can Be a Heart Stopper
> The study is one of a growing number that look at the health of performing
> artists, says Kris Chesky, director of research and education for the
> University of North Texas Center for Music and Medicine in Denton.
> "It's a very important study," Chesky says. "It's not suggesting that
there is
> a risk associated with playing the trumpet, but it shows what kinds of
> dramatic effects it can have on the heart."
I hope such studies continue -- and go more and more in-depth
with respect to all orchestral instruments. The article was
fascinating. Thanks for posting it Dave.
Neil
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 10 Aug 1998 00:27:44 -0700
From: "Matt C. Palasik" <mattp169@-----.com>
Subject: Re: [kl] Trumpet Playing Can Be a Heart Stopper
Is the same true for all brass players? Has any of the same research
been done to other musicians(Ie clarinet, sax, trombone)?

=========================================================

I saw that article in my Pointcast news program (very cool news service)
screen saver. I figured I'd share it. I don't know of any other studies
going on.
My question is - with a heartrate of 160, wouldn't that be considered
Aerobic activity?? Hey, maybe we could spin the music program as aerobic,
and get more funding, like sports get? ;)

As to the technique thread. To me, the key to lightning fast technique is
in 2 words "Rhythmic Variation". For example - a fast 16th run could be
practiced like slow, fast, slow, fast for 4 sixteenth notes (similar to a
jazz pattern of 4 eights notes where every other note is played longer then
the other one). Then reverse the rhythm - fast, slow, fast, slow.
like daaaaa dut daaaa dut daaaaa dut daaaaa dut for a grouping of 6. Then
dut daaaa dut daaaaa dut daaaaaa, etc. What that method offers is a rest
for the brain every other note, but the other note is in tempo. When
reversed, the other note is now in tempo also. Then put the run together in
even notes, and you will be amazed at how easy it is to play fast, and
even. Don't allow ANY error in the rhythmic practice, or the mistake will
be solidified, and you could be an expert at playing the passage wrong.

David Blumberg
reedman@-----.com
http://www.sneezy.org/clarinet/Music/Blumberg.html

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