This is a lesson that usually only takes 5 minutes. I like to go over it before we start working in-depth on tone.
Where to Start?
Start with the B natural in the middle of the staff. Adjust your mouth, jaw, lips, and throat while listening to yourself. Try to memorize where everything sounds the best.
How Will It End Up?
You’ll find that your throat will be open like you’re yawning. Your jaw will be as open as possible. Your lips will be relaxed and focused.
Your Throat
It’s really hard to remember to hold your throat open at first. It’s also really hard to remember how to keep your throat open. Try yawning. That will remind you what it feels like to have it open.
Your Jaw
It’s hard to imagine without doing it, but you’ll notice that you will drop your jaw as much as your lips will allow. This will help with the richness of your tone.
Your Mouth
Your mouth (not including your lips) will be as open as possible. This gives the air a chance to resonate. If it helps, you’re trying to blow out hot air rather than cold air.
Your Lips
Find a way to keep your lips relaxed while still focusing your sound. The opening (aperture) should be close to, if not at, the center of your lips.
Some people have to play a little to the side because of the shape of their lips. The most common reason for that is because the top lip comes to a point. I personally have to go a little to the left side because I have a mole on the right side of my top lip that makes that side not work quite as well. We have to work with what God gave us.
Note that I’m saying a little to the side. The aperture should still be in the center third of the lips.
How to Practice Tone
Every day, at the beginning of practice, play your B natural and find your best tone. Look at yourself in the mirror. You will see how your mouth, lips, jaw, and throat change when your tone changes.
Results
Your tone will naturally improve when you start working on tone. It will transfer to the rest of your practice. Try to do this every time you play, it only takes a minute.