[Guest]

I've been playing alto for just over 3 years now, and I can't get the higher octave notes, like G and A, to play in tune. :x I always go so sharp it reads a flat G# or Bb on my tuner. My director always says drop your jaw, but it never works for me. Am I doing something wrong? Please help.

 

[dirty]

Don't back off on the air as you get higher. I did that for a long time (still do when I don't pay attention). It can seem like you need to blow "softer" air to get a softer, sweeter, fuller tone up high, but what really happens is you end up not giving the note enough air to speak well. You then bite down on the reed to make a smaller tip opening in order to make the note come out, then it speaks sharp. Dropping your jaw gets a lot easier to do when you're moving more air. Just don't be afraid of the high notes!

 

[Guest]

Yeah I just realized that. I just played it louder and it was in tune I was like AWESOME!!! Haha yeah but thanks. :]

I'm trying out for my high school's jazz band tomorrow so I'm practicing a ton today.