[Trombone-l] pitch

[Paul Kemp]

Somewhere in the Selmer literature concerning the 42 years ago, it said that
42 was supposed to be in tune by pulling the main tuning slide 9/16". 

However, I've come to believe that is wishful thinking to say the least. 

I have a 16xxx 42B that had to be pulled over an inch. That horn has been
chopped up know, but I have the slide and bell which is useable with my
Greenhoe valve and straight section. The main tuning slide, in order to get
everything to fit properly had to be adjusted (cut) somewhat, but at least
everything fits together properly. 

A couple of other things enter into the mix also. Where you actually hear
the pitch plays a tremendous role in where it settles in. The mouthpiece you
use can have a tremendous effect, particularly when it comes to how far the
mouthpiece sticks out of the receiver. 

I feel that because I have been practicing more consistently and doing
things more that have to deal with strength and efficiency, and also blowing
more gently, which entails breathing much more deeply, this may bring the
pitch down somewhat. 

I'm finding that on my setup, I have to pull my main tuning slide about and
inch (perhaps a bit more) and the F-attachment slide 1/2 inch. I'm using a
Laskey 57D mouthpiece, and everything seems to settle in quite well. It's
not really that big of a deal. 

Some of this may have to do with your concept of sound as well. Clarity and
purity will seem to sound higher to the ear versus dullness and muddiness
will sound lower to the ear. The main thing, I believe, is to shoot for
beatless intonation in ensembles, not to make sure you peg the tuner right
every time.

Paul Kemp