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Forums :: Tip of the Day

Trouble with the 3' (3 Draw Half Step Bend)

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Tue, 12/11/2012 - 10:12
David Barrett Admin
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Head InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 11/30/2009

Many players think of the 3 draw bend as a deep bend... and it is if you're going for the bottom... but we're not commonly going for the bottom. 3''' is actually extremely rare in 2nd Position playing (its main use is in 3rd Position). 3" and 3' are used all of the time.

The most challenging bend for many is the 3'. My quick tip for you is to not think of it as a deep bend. Bend the 6 draw a number of times and then use the same general embouchrue and movement you used for the 6 draw. In short... smaller chamber with the the tongue humped up more towards the front of the mouth, using more of the front of the tongue.

Lastly... all importantly... experimentation and time will yield the results you're looking for.

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