Posted by Shaggy on December 26, 2002 at 16:17:08:
In Reply to: Fishface? posted by Jon on December 26, 2002 at 12:20:00:
: I was wondering about blowing and drawing single notes, straight playing. I've found that by making a "fish-face" I am able to play single notes. And trying to wrap the inside of my lips around the mouthpiece was a great hint from a user here. I wonder if this is the way I'll always want to play though? It seems like a real strain (I know, I'm new, I need to build up the muscles, but still!). I've tried making "whistle-face" to blow single notes, simply whistling into the holes. This works fine when blowing, but when I draw, I kind of suck my lips up into the way and make a squeeky farting sound. The kid in me loves it, but it somehow lacks the satisfaction of true playing I suspect.
: Anyone got suggestions for other 'faces' I might try?
Well, I don't know about other "faces", but the best advice I can give you is to relax. Try the "fish-face" or the "whistle-face" (as you call them), but relax as you do. Take it slow and easy. Use one hole at first. Make one of those faces, and put your mouth over the hole. Make sure you're over the hole properly by blowing a note. Now relax. Relax. Relax. Now that you're quite relaxed, blow. Slowly, gently, staying relaxed, just blow through the hole. When you almost run out of breath, stop and draw. Just draw through the hole, still staying relaxed. Make sure your mouth cavity is open but relaxed.
The main reason so many people have trouble is that they're too tense. Relax and take your time. It will come.