Have you ever experienced any of the following?
Hesitation before playing
DElayed Response
Double articulation
Stutter
Blocked Tongue
Air Trapped inside the body
You are not alone!
These are among the most common issues that plague brass instrumentalists. I should know, I had all of these problems. I went from not being able to articulate a single note on the instrument to 100% recovery, but it took me over FIVE YEARS!
I have developed a way of playing that bypasses the triggering of the Valsalva maneuver. Once I developed the BVM technique, it took me just over a month to fully recover. I now feel compelled to help anyone that is struggling because I know just how awful it feels. There is no better time than now to start working through these issues.
Watch the video to hear my story!
Here are some questions you might have
What is the Valsalva Maneuver?
The Valsalva maneuver is a reflex that the body performs when it senses an overabundance of air pressure. It serves an important function and helps us, among other things, to lift heavy objects, use the bathroom, and give birth. It is important to note that it is a REFLEX. This means that you have no conscious control over it. This response that can wreak havoc on brass playing and make you feel like you are suffocating. Not good! However, while you have no control over it, you CAN avoid triggering it!
Why is it affecting me?
There is no simple answer to this, as there are many different causes. These include:
An inaccurate interpretation of the term “Support”
Learned breathing habits
Your personal anatomy
A tense resting tongue position
Sinus issues
What can I do about it?
It is a very lonely road to try to figure all this out on your own. Luckily for you, I have done all the research and have put my body and mind through the wringer to develop a solution for you. Click on the links below and get started today!
