Have a new band piece that's full of trills and you're not sure how to tackle them? Here are a few simple rules* to help.
If you see one (or both) of these signs:
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Follow these steps:
Check your key signature.
Starting on the written note, alternate between that pitch and the one above.
End on the written note.
Try these:
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Start on the main note and trill to the note above, based on your key signature.
In this case, we start on the G, trill to an A natural (because A is not altered in the key signature) and end on the G.
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In this example, we start on the main note (G), and trill to an A flat (as indicated by the key signature), ending again on the G.
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In this example, the natural sign above the tr means that we should change the upper note from an A flat (in the key signature) to an A natural.
Start on the G, trill to an A natural, ending again on the G.
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In this example, you should start your trill on the tiny note with the slash through it.
Start on the A natural, trill back to the G and make sure to end the trill on the main note (G).
One last hint - focus your air on the pitch of the bottom note and your trill will sound fuller and more convincing.
Want a trill chart to download on your phone? Look below!
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Would you like a physical version of the trill chart above or a poster with the lower octave fingerings? Send Amy a message!
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* These trill rules apply to most band music. If you're playing solo repertoire or orchestral pieces written in the Classical period or before, additional rules may apply.
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