Re: Shoulder Tension


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Posted by Mike Brooke on August 12, 2003 at 19:22:36:

In Reply to: Shoulder Tension posted by Wil on August 12, 2003 at 11:03:47:

I have played off and on for over 20 years and spent a lot of time and energy trying to get rid of shoulder tension. The simple fact is, when you hold a 10 or 11 pound horn for a period of time, tension is going to result. The important thing is to focus on maintaining a good flow of air rather than on the tension in your shoulders. If you focus on air flow, than you will relax automatically. As for raising the shoulders, try doing stretches for your neck and traps. This is a good strech. Bend your arm 90 degrees and put your forearm behind your back. Reach behind your back with your other arm and grab your elbow or your forearm. Then tilt your head to the side away from the bent arm. You should feel a stretch in the side of your neck and your traps. If your shoulder starts to raise, force it back down. After awhile, you should be able to keep your shoulders down while playing.

Hope this helps,

Mike


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