TromboneChat

I decided I needed to have my left index finger closer to the 2nd-valve trigger, and so I widened the angle of the bell to the slide to something a bit wider than 90 degrees, and the horn suddenly became more resonant and responsive.

It's kind of a trusism that changing your playing angle IN WHATEVER PLANE will change something, but here, it doesn't actually feel any different on the chops, so am I simply getting more or different feedback off the bell, or does this particular angle matter, and if so, why (since the slide itself is in the same position relative to my face as before)?

If this is just a nice freebie, then I sould consider changing the position of the triggers accordingly to this new angle...

I ask you Bach 50 players, since slide width of course varies by instrument, but interested in anyone else's experience, and (hopefully logical) explanation for what is taking place.


Thanks,

Paul

I do 90 on everything. The way the valves interface with your neck will also make a difference in comfort.

I’ve always played with my horns angled a little less than 90 degrees, perhaps 80 or 85. For me, it helps with balance and yaw. But now you’ve got me wondering. I’ll try 90 to see what happens, if anything.