1.2 Matching Pitch and Articulation

GOALS: Match pitch with voice and with mouthpiece buzz / Articulation

• Review previous lesson, say 'emmm & puuu' first with the finger on the lips, then with the mouthpiece for a buzz. Return to this setting-up activity throughout the lesson for the next several weeks. 

• Matching sung pitch: Using reference pitch of Bb concert: teacher sings the pitch / student sings the pitch (on Bb concert only). Repeat until easy and accurate. Stay positive and encouraging, smiling all the while.

• Matching buzzed pitch: student attempts to buzz the pitch - stay positive, any sound is acceptable. Repeat several times.

• Call and response of teacher sing/buzz, student sing/buzz repeated with teacher only giving positive feedback and smiling while student plays

• Teach Articulation: 'thee thee thee', say it with emm face, sing it, buzz it. NOTE:The tongue articulates at lower part of the top teeth. Articulating this way keeps the embouchure stable and creates a clear note strike. The tongue should be visible in the aperture while saying 'thee thee thee'. I do not recommend teaching 'duu duu' for articulation as it puts the tongue in a low position and allows the embouchure to sag.  

• Articulation practice: call and response of teacher sing/buzz, student sing/buzz repeated with teacher only giving positive feedback and smiling while student plays

NOTE: It is important to have the student sing pitches. This helps them become aware of the position of the tongue high in the mouth and on the back teeth (say eeee).  If their buzzing pitch is too low it is likely due to an aperture that is too large, not enough mouthpiece pressure or not enough air speed. Creating a buzz is a balanced combination of all three. 

FINISH: Play something for the student, make it simple and cheerful, emphasize articulation and breathing through corners.