Many beginning musicians don’t realize how important proper posture is to a good sound. Good posture opens up your airway and allows you to breathe properly to achieve a richer, fuller sound that projects well. It also gives you a greater dynamic range.
Ways to improve your sitting posture:
•A stool is the best thing to sit on to improve your posture as it has no back on it.
•If you don’t have a stool available, sit on the front half of your chair. Do not allow your back, arms or elbows to touch the back of the chair.
•Keep your back straight and your chin up.
•Adjust your equipment to allow you to have proper posture while performing.
•Look up at the conductor (the conductor will appreciate this).
•Position your music stand directly between you and the conductor.
•Adjust the height of your stand so the top of the stand is just below the bottom of your conductor’s down-beat.
•A note to trumpet and trombone players: Remember to get your bell up over the stand. If the conductor cannot see your bell, you will have to work much harder to be heard by everyone.