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Question: Getting Ready For A Trumpet Solo!?
Well, for School we always have our solo contest!. It is in February!. I sit 5th Chair!. ( Hey I'm Really Not That Bad!.) & I really want to place & make my family proud!. We have a long line of great trumpet players in my family!. My Song is "Lyra!." It's for progressive etudes for cornet or trumpet!. Any Tips For Practicing, getting ready, not being nervous, ect!.!.!.!? Oh, I got my solo a week ago!. I just had my lesson today and my band teacher said she was really impressed!. Do You Think I have to worry!? I really need help!.!.!.
Please& Thank you
Hannah MarieWww@QuestionHome@Com
Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
I'm not a trumpet player, but have a strong musical background!. It's really good to hear that you are taking lessons and are already working on the solo!. Starting work on a solo early is an important aspect of learning a piece for a competition!. That way, you give yourself plenty of time to work on the whole piece, yet also be able to put the piece down for a few days here and there to give yourself a break!.
In terms of practicing, one of the best things to do closer to contest time is to play the piece several times through each day (say 3 times back to back), while picturing yourself in front of an audience and judges!. Picture them writing stuff down on the judge's comment sheet!. This mental practice will help you through the nerves during the actual competition!. This will also help you in finding spots where you can regroup in case you do screw up and get nervous!. In terms of your nerves, I've found the best thing to do is to just accept the fact that they're there!. Freaking out about being nervous doesn't help the situation!. If there's any possibility for you to play the solo in an event before the actual competition (open mike night, church, etc), take part in it!. It will greatly help in getting rid of those first performance jitters!.
On a side note, I've found that avoiding unnecessary sugars (such as soda) on the day of competitions helps with keeping my nerves in check!. The last thing I need is a sugar or caffiene rush on top of the nerves!. So this will be something to consider!. I do recommend that you have a light meal before the performance, just so that your blood sugar doesn't drop, and may help with settling those butterfly feelings!.
In addition to your personal practice sessions, I'd also recommend working with your accompanist (if required) as soon as possible!. When I was in high school, an accompanist was provided for us!. However, if you have to find your own, ask your director for a list of names!. If need be, you may have some luck with posting on craigslist, or contacting your local music school or university with a music department!. Do be prepared to pay a fee for the accompanists services, so be sure to ask about those as well!.
All and all, good luck, and most of all, have fun! The audience AND judges want you to perform well, so put your best foot forward and enjoy the opportunity!.Www@QuestionHome@Com