Posted by ouch...don't do that on April 25, 2002 at 09:54:37:
In Reply to: High register posted by K.G. on April 25, 2002 at 00:49:21:
High notes are the product of a smaller aperature, not pressure. In otherwords, make the little hole between your lips smaller like when you whistle to go higher. In fact, practice your high notes by whistling. If you can whistle it you can play it.
When you add pressure to the mouthpiece it forces your lips closer and the high notes come out...but they probably sound like a cat being tortured. In all aspects of brass playing it is best to avoid tension. Proper tuba technique is very similar to proper singing technique. If you don't have a tuba teacher, go see a vocal coach.
Besides musical issues, applying pressure can be bad for your dentician and facial muscles. Dating can also be awkward for the musician who jams the horn into their face because you look silly with a purple ring around your lips.