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Hey all, I have recently been at the verge of finding that correct embouchure that produces the most open euphonium sound I can create. When I DO use this embouchure (i often switch back by habit), I get that red ring (not too dark) on the top of my lip, usually caused by playing with too much pressure. Oddly enough, Im not using much more pressure than I used to, actuallly i am even working on using very little pressure but I still get a red mark just by the way i pucker my lips into my mouthpiece. Is this redness a sign of something bad? Should I fix it? Should i play with a wet embouchure instead?


Any input is appreciated

Thanks

I play with a wet embouchure, and I get a very prominent red ring on my lips anyway. I've been told it's due to a combination of factors including thin lips, light skin, and mouthpiece pressure. No one's ever told me to change anything, so I don't consider redness a problem - however, I agree with Scooby Tuba - a wet embouchure is probably a good idea.

- Jamie

I wouldn't worry too much about the "ring-of-shame", I get one when I play, most of the players who spend a lot of time with the horn on their face have nice scar tissue rings on their top lips. Don't fret - this is normal. I would stick to using your ears to figure out the sound you want to achieve, and not spend so much time worrying about what you look like when you are doing it! You seem to be on the right track! Hope this helps!

- Pat Stuckemeyer

Playing wet prevents you from using the rim as a crutch to do things you couldn't do otherwise.

Lots of people get red rings, and "some" pressure is required to play. There is a wide range of pressures that professionals use, and what is fine for one is too much or too little for another. Like instruments, you do what works for you.

MA

I play off center so my ring is pretty funny looking when I'm playing euphonium. When I'm playing tuba (still off center)for a long time though.......

dumb question, but would someone define Wet vs Dry playing? I did a search but found nothing.

MaryAnn wrote:Playing wet prevents you from using the rim as a crutch to do things you couldn't do otherwise.



MA

Any examples? Do you mean things like range?



Anyway, thanks for the replies. I guess I was just wondering if it will cause any future troubles. There doesnt seem to be any other than sweating. I may try both but youre right, sound is what matters. Jamie and Ryan both sound great with one wet one dry so it shouldnt make a difference

Thanks for the input,


Kevin

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I never have a red ring. But then ... I don't shave either.