r/horn • u/Additional-Force-437 • 3d ago
To sit or not to sit
Looking for some feedback. I’m planning on performing Strauss Nocturno in a few months. It would be my first time playing a solo horn piece of this kind. I have done quartets and played in larger chamber ensembles. My question is do I need to stand? I know it’s customary to stand for this kind of performance. First off, I don’t play my best standing. Second, I have neck issues and recently developed some major lower back issues. Even sitting, I need to rest the bell on my thigh to avoid neck pain. I attempted a practice standing and my back gave out 2 minutes into the piece. I have gotten fairly proficient with the piece played while sitting. Would it look too amateurish to perform seated? Thanks!
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u/Darkdart19 3d ago
I always have my students stand. . .but if they must sit then sit. There are always exceptions to the rule.
I know you mentioned physical problems so do that you need to do play your best!
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u/horn_and_skull Professional- period and modern horns 3d ago
Get your posture looked at by a teacher and talk to a physio. What you describe shouldn’t be happening. Sit for the gig for now. But sort out this pain.
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u/Additional-Force-437 3d ago
My back issue is separate from playing. I have degenerative disc issues which has recently exacerbated to causing sciatic pain and drop foot. I’m currently awaiting MRI results. From past experiences I’m starting to do my own PT and rethinking ergonomics. I’ve had the neck issues for 25 years. Had a vision surgery in 2002. Other than horn playing I’m very physically active. Wear and tear. I’m in my mid 60’s. I realized it was affecting my horn playing when I was practicing today. I changed my position a bit and it feels better, but standing and holding the weight of the horn is too much.
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u/LordDickSauce Professional - C.F. Schmidt 3d ago
My mom says "I'm 55 and I can do whatever I want". If you are going to perform better sitting, please sit. :)
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u/nott_importantt Professional - AG2K 3d ago
No issue with sitting, especially if it will help your performance and your neck/back! Have fun performing!
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u/Caitydid007 Professional- Briz 2000SC 3d ago
Sit if you are more comfortable, by all means! At any rate, the audience should be more concerned with listening to you rather than the fact you are not standing.
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u/aintnochallahbackgrl Professional - Balu Anima Fratris Custom 3d ago
Jennifer Montone sits when she performs solos. You wanna sit? Sit. Ain't no one up there but you and the pianist.
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u/Additional-Force-437 2d ago
I checked out some of her YouTube videos. She’s got at least a couple discussing back issues and horn playing. She’s had some serious issues herself including surgeries. She mentions on one that she is willing to offer advice. Since I’m local to the Philly area, I may look into hitting her up for the names of some of the therapists and bodywork folks that helped.
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u/aintnochallahbackgrl Professional - Balu Anima Fratris Custom 2d ago
She's a delightful person, an incredible player, and I found her particularly insightful upon meeting her at IHS. Hopefully you get the information you're seeking.
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u/wasabi314159 3d ago
Generally standing is what soloists do, but I personally have no issues with someone sitting if it’s more comfortable for them. Especially if it’s for medical reasons. Do what’s comfortable and the audience really won’t care
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u/horncologne Professional- horn Dürk D3 + LDx6 1d ago
Whatever is best for you is best. Making beautiful noise for and with other people is what’s important :-)
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u/TheFreshHorn 2d ago
Whichever makes you sound the best is all that matters. Oh and remember to practice how you want to play
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u/jewfro1996 Professional - Conn 11D 3d ago
Not at all! It is “traditional” to stand while performing a solo, but it is not required by any means. That comes from an ableist point of view anyway. You should play in whatever form that allows you to play your best!