TubeNet

Greetings all,

As a university student I have certain obligations with various ensembles with which I perform. Over the past week, I've been on tour with the choir, had a 24 hour turn around and then ventured out with the orchestra. Both tours were great fun and filled with strong musical experiences.

The "problem" with these experiences is the lack of face time I've been able to get. Choir tour was tough because there was no way that I could bring a tuba along with me. Orchestra tour was unfortunately tough because we were just kept busy moving from place to place so much that there was little time to grab the horn (other than the performances).

My question to the gallery is: what can I do to keep my chops in shape in such situations? I keep a mouthpiece/buzz ring with me constantly and use it frequently (much to the displeasure of my colleagues). Is there anything else I can/should be doing?

After both tours I noticed a gradual decrease in strength. Nothing a few hard practice sessions couldn't/didn't fix, but as someone who practices religiously, it is frustrating to have to spend time rebuilding chops and just not sounding my best.

Thanks for the suggestions,

Himes

When I go on tour, my axe is always part of the equipment being moved. But the bass trombonist always carries his on, and lets me blow on his horn with my mouthpiece if I have a couple of days off and feel the need to play.

This being the 3rd week of a 28-day tour, I feel safe in commenting. Lots of brass folks on our tour use an almost-silent practice type mute in their rooms (I'm assuming you stay in hotels?). Some just play softly, and this is not an issue because the workload is fairly heavy for us (lots of loud playing), and softer maintenance playing is what we need more than strenuous practice.

But some of us do need more regular practice, especially if we are featured as soloists each night. I've usually been able to talk the hotel management into letting us use one of their meeting rooms, as long as we don't disturb any other patrons. Depending on the size of the hotel and the number of guests, you can usually find somewhere hidden away, and your chances will be better if you shoot for the hours between 10 am and 4 pm.

...although one hotel wanted $400 for the use of a meeting room

I've even sat in an indoor pool (no other patrons) and had a very productive hour of practice.

And if the weather's warm enough, you can always play outside.

In my group, you've go to do whatever it takes to get the job done: lack of practice facilities won't cut it as an excuse.

Karl "sound more professional than I look" H.