Saxophone beginners the lower lip becomes fatter

[georgesax]

Hi cafe members: I have been playing the saxophone about one year, I do feel my embouchure has become stronger. however, I also notice my lower lip becomes fatter than a year ago. I am 42 years old. Is this normal? thanks!

 

[jbtsax]

Do you mean when you are playing the saxophone? If so, that is quite normal as the lip tissue is pressed up against the reed to act as a "cushion" and "control" the reed's vibrations. This is not the case with the more "severe" soprano clarinet embouchure where the bottom lip is stretched tight and thin to have minimum contact with the reed.

 

[Colin the Bear]

Mine only gets fatter after a boisterous night in the pub. But you should have seen the other feller. 😉

 

[Veggie Dave]

I'm found that, too. At least it felt like it.

In my case I think it was because my embouchure had become stronger but I hadn't started to relax it, which is something that came later.

It wasn't until I changed horn that I found I was able to really relax while playing.

 

[Jimmymack]

Well your lips are muscle, I hope, so if you are exercising them they should have a bit more substance I suppose. I've been playing so long I never paid attention although I don't think I've got lips like the incredible hulk so who knows. Never heard of any medical problem connected to lips. Are you sure you're not imagining it?

 

[ESJohn]

I asked my dentist a few months ago if playing the sax would damage the lower lip, as I was concerned that it could cause irritation and lead to serious issues. He told me that the lips were resilient and I should not worry. He even complimented me on my question!

 

[Justin Chune]

I used to play with a dance band and at the end of our rehearsals I could look across at our trombone players big red blodge and swollen lips. He always had a look of utter contentment on his face. The joy of music.

 

[Colin the Bear]

I know one trumpet player who looks like a geisha at the end of a gig.

 

[Adrian63]

Trombone lip is a bad deal ; who would buy into that ?

 

[jbtsax]

And then there is . . .

 

[Targa]

And then there is . . .

View attachment 15746

And then there is Pete Burns but the pictures are too frightening to show.