First, just blow air through the mouthpiece – no lip vibration – yet. Don’t blow hard – just like saying “whew” on a hot day. Don’t try to make a “trombone embouchure” – just let the mouthpiece be a funnel for the air. Place the mouthpiece near the middle of your lips – it will eventually “find its own way” to your personal “best” spot. See Mouthpiece Placement. Do this several times.

Second, add a little Blocked Buzzing. Completely seal the end of the mouthpiece with a finger and gently blow against it. Your lips should seal (hermetically) against the mouthpiece rim. Don’t blow hard – just enough to engage the embouchure muscles. For this purpose, don’t hold this too long. Gently blow your finger out of the way and let the air freely flow through and out of the mouthpiece – still no lip vibration. (This is similar to a tongued attack.) Do this a few times.

Third, repeat; but now let the lips to be drawn into vibration by the airstream (see Tone Production). Allow them to vibrate, don’t “make” them vibrate – let them find the best placement for the mouthpiece. Whatever pitch is easiest for you. Sound should NOT be immediate – airflow first, then tone. There may be several total “air-balls” before you get a tone. Don’t buzz too loud, too soft, or too tight. See About Buzzing.

Fourth, do some breath attacks without the finger. No articulation – no too, poo, goo, etc. – “whhhhh . . .” – like Stewie from Family Guy! (This is a good example – be sure to un-mute the Facebook reel.)

Fifth, do some gentle octave glissandos; up, down, and up and down.

When those are working, proceed to the “Set-Up Routine.” (NOTE: there are more practice resources.)