Posts

Buying a new trombone at Phil Parker's London: some reflections

  Buying a new trombone at Phil Parker's London (2021): reflections Trombones seemed to have changed a lot since I last bought one (about 20 years ago!) and I had a fun morning trying out Phil Parker's large stock (probably the biggest in UK) in London. My ancient Conn 88H needed a replacement  hence my trip. Choosing a trombone (or any instrument) is tough and pretty subjective - so what follows are only my personal observations mostly based on the sound they made (the most important aspect for any instrument).    It struck me that the trombone-make landscape has changed quite a lot and that the more modern instruments (Shires, Greenhoe and Rath) seem to be much better (more solid) built than say the new Conns. Prices also seem to have gone up. Below are my reflections on some of  the trombones I tried in order of personal preference (focusing on the sound) after a lot of agonising: 1. Greenhoe GB4-1G. Solid instrument with rich tone in all re...
Post a Comment
Read more

Where to hire or buy a brass instrument in Greater London area.

  Hillsound Instruments to hire (but not baritones) and to buy (also brass repairs). Hampton Hill 020 8977 7788 www.hillsound.co.uk Dawkes Music Good for Brass: https://www.dawkes.co.uk/instrument-rental Prozone Music Brass instruments to hire and buy www.prozonemusic.com https://www.prozonemusic.com/help-centre/instrument-hire Phil Parker (Excellent source of brass to buy only) https://philparker.co.uk/ Beginner Brass Instruments   Below is a list of recommended makes for beginners (prices May 2025).  It is possible to hire instruments in order to make the cost manageable. Second hand instruments are also a good option if they are in good condition (not over-worn)– it is safest to buy from a reputable brass shop rather than off Ebay (it might look good in the photo but not actually be playable due to unseen wear to the valves or dents). Trumpet Phil Parker London S1 Student Trumpet £249.00 Bach Elkhart £249 Cornet Phil Parker S1 Cornet-Lacquer £274.99 Bach El...
Post a Comment
Read more

Common Brass Playing Faults

  Common brass playing faults and their solutions (best to deal with these with a good teacher) These are a few issues that I have notices cropping in many times in my teaching lately   Breathing through the nose. Many pupils breathe through the nose which means that the player does not have enough breath to get a good sound. Always breathe through the sides of the mouth  - you can do this with having the lips attached to the mouthpiece. This means you will get a good full lung's worth of breath which is essential for good wind playing. Not using the tongue to start notes To get a good start to the notes you need to place the tongue behind the top teeth to create a seal and release the tongue to start the note - practice saying Tah but with the tongue more forward.  Using the tongue to stop the note. Often pupils can use the tongue to stop the note (tut) which makes the note have an overall poor tone quality. Always just let the tongue stay low in the mout...
Post a Comment
Read more