[Dixielandjazz] The pencil exercise

[Custode at aol.com]

In a message dated 01/12/2004 9:56:46 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
cellblk7 at comcast.net writes:


> Have any of you cornet/trumpet players heard of the pencil exercise?
> 

Bob,

The pencil exercise is one that I use personally, as well as, with my 
students.  This is how it works: you simply place an unsharpened pencil (eraser end) 
between your lips and hold it there by squeezing your lips together for a 
specified time.  Beginners start by trying to hold it there for 30 - 60 seconds, 
advanced try to hold it for up to 4 minutes.  The key is to hold it straight 
out, parallel to the ground without it sagging.  I know it sounds simple, but 
after decades of playing trumpet/cornet, it was difficult...if not painful ... 
for me to hold it steady for 30 seconds.  This exercise builds the facial 
muscles and teaches the student how to keep the corners of the mouth firm when 
playing the instrument.  I do it daily, and it really helps build both endurance 
and range.

Good luck,
Lewis D. Custode, Jr., CLU, ChFC
turmpet/leader
Bourbon Street Brass
Buffalo, NY