Why are high notes revered by most humans? Dogs run from them and hide.
No matter how these tension building noises are generated, most people stand in amazement at their execution. Even when a vocalist sings the Star Spangled Banner, no one listens until they hear the last note screamed an octave higher. What ever happened to good musical taste?
This enamorment for the shrill has a long history. Even during the Baroque era, the trumpet players who were able to traverse the upper range of their instrument were admired and well compensated for this ability.
Some would say that man’s infatuation with high note playing stems from the misconception that high notes require super human strength. Some may reward such athletes for their enormous amount of time and dedication in developing this gift. And some may even elevate such performers to the level of “High Note Gods” to be worshiped from afar. For whatever reason, few can deny the excitement produced from hearing these blood curdling assaults to the inner ear.
Those who possess this gifted ability are in fact respected by those who are less gifted, and that would be me. My high range would be considered adequate but far from admired by many players. My daily routine includes a warm-up to at least an F above high C. Seldom am I required to play in this range but knowing that I am familiar with the feel and the fingering makes me more confident.
To those who visit YouTube to view the endless list of double, triple and higher trumpet players do not be discouraged for attaining these super atmospheric ranges might be more than just practice and air. I remember teaching in Texas many years ago when a young person (8-10 years old) entered the band room. I noticed his interest in my trumpet and began to visit with him about the instrument. “Would you like to try playing it”, I asked and handed him my instrument. This young man had never had a trumpet in his hands so I showed him how to hold it. Upon placing the mouthpiece to his lips and blowing, I was shocked to hear the biggest, most powerful “double G” I had ever heard. So much for practicing high notes for me.
If you have struggled to increase your upper register as I have, do not be discouraged. As one of my former department heads once told me- “Not every horse is a race horse”.
Being a realist will sometimes improve your outlook on life. If you are required to play only up to a high C, be sure you are able to play to a solid D above that. Too many trumpet players will demonstrate their incredible high note skills while warming up but when required to produce those same notes on the job, they respond with lame excuses for their poor performance.
I am content knowing that I do not possess super human, high note skills for I am not superman.
I am perfectly happy being Clark Kent.
