Posted by Heather on June 23, 2001 at 10:57:58:
In Reply to: Sharp vs. Flat posted by Tubist on June 22, 2001 at 13:46:48:
When you are in the pedal register, you should be able to manipulate the pitch at least a half step. Try working to bend the pitches and stretch yourself that way. There is a great warm up study that is a variation of a long tone. 4/4 time, pitches are eighth notes
G F# G F# G F# G F# (fingered as usual) G F# G F# G F# G F# (no valves, bend the pitch) then hold G for 8 counts. Start on first line G, and work your way down chromatically. You will more than likely be out of tune the first month you work on this, but you will notice over time how much more manipulation you have of pitch.
Another option for ease of fingering, when the pedal E shows up in faster passages, I play it as a false tone with second valve alone. Works for everyone who's tried it.
Good Luck.