TromboneChat

So basically, I get a big 'ol red lip ring whenever I play any sort of extended musical etudes (the longer rochuts) or concertos. I remember the Rimsky-Korsakov gave me some trouble by the time the third movement rolled around, and especially with the last variation in Blue Bells; I don't think I've ever walked away from that without a quite noticeable lip ring. I was just wondering what could be the cause of this? I try to consciously relax and not use too much mouthpiece pressure while playing, but it still appears despite that, so I may just not be doing a good enough job in that department. I've also noticed it is a tad more pronounced when high notes (C5 +) appear more than once in a longer piece. Any and all suggestion would be welcome, thanks!

Yeah, that's gonna happen. It's not necessarily a problem. If you play enough, it will be visible even when you don't play.

Yeah, it’s pretty much permanently on me now. My parents always ask me if there is a way to get rid of it, idk.

My wife has always called it the kissing target.

Atoastedtrmb wrote: Thu May 15, 2025 7:31 am Yeah, it’s pretty much permanently on me now. My parents always ask me if there is a way to get rid of it, idk.

Grow a mustache? Makeup? I had one in high school. Helped identify me as an Alpha Band Geek. Do you have a callous on the middle knuckle of your middle finger yet?

Trombone players are better kissers because their lips are smooth from the mouthpiece constantly removing dead skin.

I have calluses all over my hands from lifting and working, so I wouldn't know if playing made it any worse. Never heard that about the kissing though

Jimprindle wrote: Thu May 15, 2025 7:39 am My wife has always called it the kissing target.

Awwwwwww!!!! That's sweet!