Piccolo headache

MissyHPhoenix · Post by **MissyHPhoenix** » Sat Oct 16, 2010 7:57 am

When I practice my piccolo, if I play for than 15 minutes or so I start to get a very bad headache. I try to keep my embouchure soft and relaxed while at the same time directing my airstream very specifically into the smaller headjoint opening. My embouchure is much better controlled and my playing is a lot more consistent, tone is better, but I still get the headaches.

Does anybody else have this problem? Any ideas or advise?

Phineas · Post by **Phineas** » Sat Oct 16, 2010 9:05 am

Are you wearing ear plugs? That might help.

pied_piper · Post by **pied_piper** » Sat Oct 16, 2010 5:03 pm

I second the ear plugs. I always wear mine when I practice in a smaller room.

MissyHPhoenix · Post by **MissyHPhoenix** » Sat Oct 16, 2010 7:50 pm

If you wear ear plugs, does it interfere with your ability to judge intonation and tone quality? Never thought about ear plugs, tho ..... might just be worth a try if I can still gauge the quality of the playing .....

Phineas · Post by **Phineas** » Sat Oct 16, 2010 8:08 pm

MissyHPhoenix wrote:If you wear ear plugs, does it interfere with your ability to judge intonation and tone quality? Never thought about ear plugs, tho ..... might just be worth a try if I can still gauge the quality of the playing .....

Nope! Actually, you may be able to hear some things better. Other than that, you can always record yourself.