Breathing difficulties among trombone players / Rahimah Yahaya

Breathing while playing the wind instrument is different than normal everyday breathing. Gaunt (2004) said that breathing is fundamental to playing a wind instrument. Good breathing relates directly to all aspects of music-making, from physical sensation and freedom of movement to the shaping of a musical phrase. Five (5) participants of music students of the Faculty of Music in UiTM who are majoring in trombone involved in this study were asked about their breathing difficulties while playing the instrument. Most of them said that the problem when they first learn the trombone is not having enough air support to produce bright sound from the instrument. They also agree that physical exercise could help them stay fit and keep their stamina on track. Breathing gym is one of the necessities to the wind players to build up strong air support. Discipline to have a consistent practice every day is very important for wind players.