Vibrato, added for warmth and expressiveness, is a slight and rapid variation in the pitch of a note. It can greatly enhance the tone, adding a wide variety of colors. Vibrato can be characterised by the amount of pitch variation ("depth of vibrato") and speed with which the pitch is varied ("speed of vibrato"). It does not have to be used all the time or at a steady rate. Eventually the saxophonist will recognize notes and phrases where vibrato is best used. In playing big band standards, one should mimic a vibrato style of the band that originally played the piece. In concert band, consider adding vibrato as dictated by the style of music. Vibrato can be an invaluable tool for adding life and emotion to saxophone playing. Saxophone vibrato is much like a vocal or string vibrato, except the vibrations are made using the jaw instead of the diaphragm or fingers. The jaw motions required for vibrato can be simulated by saying the syllables "wah-wah-wah" or "tai-yai-yai." The method which is easiest and brings the best vibrato depends on the player. When practicing vibrato, use a metronome. First, pick a scale and play it in whole notes. Next try to alter the tone of each pitch by dropping the jaw one time per beat at a metronome marking of 60 beats per minute. The jaw motion for altering the pitch is similar to chewing bubble gum; however, as one develops the technique, the dip of the pitch will become less noticeable. Typically, less vibrato is used at faster tempos. Players just starting out with vibrato will usually start out slow with exaggerated jaw movements. As they progress, the vibrato becomes quicker until the desired speed is reached. |
How to incorporate Vibrato into your saxophone playing leçon de saxo n°3: le vibrato Aria - Bozza |
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