Depending on your lip size and/ or teeth jaw angle
(see below), the more important factor might also be
the proper Inner Diameter of the mouthpiece.
As there are quite a few variables(!!!) to consider
with the lip size, teeth jaw angle, I will brainstorm
just a few for critic. Most my brainstorms are highly
generalized....that is the point, a starting place for
analysis.
1. A player with Good traditional proportional size
between upper and lower lips for horn playing,
generally flat or slightly angled teeth/ jaw = middle
of the road equip (or traditional/regional) is fine,
also large bore can be possible and extreme skill is
shown. More often you will see a perfect embouchure
set up,
Free buzzing can be easy and loud!.
a. When the jaw angle is extreme in any direction, the
mouthpiece angle must be considered. PLaying can work
very well in either jaw direction,under-bite, or
overbite with proper mouthpiece angle.
2. Very Small and thin lips and somewhat even/normal
(see above) jaw angle= middle of road equipment, maybe
a smaller inner diameter than traditional, could be
large bore to medium, not many limits. free buzzing is
generally easy and VERY loud. Many times a perfect
embouchure set up BUT many other times you will see a
"rolled in" set with both lips or more lower or upper,
rolled in. Everyone does it a little different.
a. When the jaw angle is extreme in a over bite, the
mouthpiece angle must be considered thoroughly.
3. Larger lips (both lips similar size), basic teeth/
jaw angle is normal= This factor goes both ways very
well. One can "set in" very nicely with larger lips,
depending on many factors.
If the lips are not too big, a larger inner diameter
works well and a 60/40 set works well too. Buzzing can
be very hard, seemingly impossible for some. It is
possible to over come the impossible!!
a. When the jaw angle is too extreme in either
direction, special conditions must be taken.
I have seen a few players with this "reverse setting
in" ie. setting in the upper lip. Not good results at
all. Weak, no control... etc....at least you see the
writing on the wall.
Start working your way through the Schantl etudes.
They start off VERY moderate (eight measures at a
time, much less than 5 minutes), but in the horn
style, which is your goal.
Best of luck,
Matthew Scheffelman
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