Posted by David on November 06, 2002 at 01:53:10:
In Reply to: Stravinsky Symphony of Wind Instruments posted by Andy Smith on November 05, 2002 at 17:20:52:
With a little practice, here's the technique. Balance the mute on the small end. Pick it up in your left hand, with the handle that's close to the top, several bars ahead of time, hold it up high enough to place in the bell, and during the 2 beats or so, set it in place.
Don't think it's possible? I spent several years doing just that in a ballet orchestra without any extra time. Most conductors don't care how you accomplish the task, just do it.
Remember the first suggestion: practice several times to make sure you can make your left hand/arm pick up the mute while you hold/play the horn with your right.
Good luck.