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Re: Lip Strength

Author: jhoyla
Date: 2007-10-01 22:48

Hmm .. I suppose that I must sound much younger than I am ..

I am probably not describing the exercise well enough. If done correctly, it makes you bunch, tighten and strengthen the corners of your embouchure, while stretching and flexing your lips. I find it very useful.
Of all the "stand alone" exercises, it is the one that helps me build up stamina quickly. I can even use it while driving (and without dribbling through a reed), drawing only raised-eyebrows from fellow motorists.

Another thing that is often missed by young oboists (though obviously not ex pros!) is to open the mouth as often as possible while playing. Young players, once they have the "right" position of the reed in their mouths will try and keep it there and breathe through their noses (or not breathe at all if they are fit).
However, lips pressed tightly against a reed have a problem with blood-supply, and rapidly tire. Releasing the reed allows blood to flow back and replenish the oxygen supply to the lip muscles.

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Lip Strength new

OldTimer

2007-09-30 22:57