Frequently Asked Questions

How could Mr Jacobs play the tuba with one lung?

A myth, legend, urban folklore – not true! While Mr. Jacobs’ lung capacity was low for most of his career, he had two lungs – here it is from the horse’s mouth!

Video – One Lung??

Why are there a few price increases?

Many of the breathing devices come from the medical world and prices often increase and we have no control.

Aren’t these breathing devices just a gimmick. Why should I use them?

The most common problem students came to Mr. Jacobs was due to shallow breathing. This has been a life long habit and in many cases, is career threatening as one ages and vital capacity is naturally reduced. There are habits that are difficult to break especially using the instrument. By developing a new skill away from the instrument using these devices, Mr. Jacobs could accomplish in weeks and months what would normally take years.

Why don’t you have a package of these available?

Different players have different requirements. A large male with a vital capacity above 6 liters can easily fill the Voldyne that has a capacity of only 5 liters. Most women have a vital capacity under 5 liters – why spend more for a 6 liter bag? It is suggested to use an exercising device (Breath Builder) with a measuring device (Voldyne or Air Bag).

Can I get a mouthpiece rim with the exact rim of my mouthpiece?

No. The purpose of a mouthpiece rim is to isolate the lip’s musculature. It really doesn’t matter about the curvature of the rim or the sharpness of the edge. Mr Jacobs would never let a student buzz without isolating the lip with the rim.

What are these delrin rims?

This was an idea that we came across using the idea that the purpose of a rim is to isolate the lip’s musculature. It is made of inexpensive delrim and the edges are routed to avoid sharp edges. The tuba rim is the same size as a Conn Helleberg and the Tenor Trombone / Euphonium is the same size as a Schilke 51, Bass Trombone based on a Bach 1 1/2G. These are cheaper than brass and are great to use in the car since they do not have temperature extremes.

I use a medium shank euphonium mouthpiece. What buzz aid works?

The tenor trombone buzz aid is too small, the bass trombone is too big. There is none made for medium bore euphoniums.

Who endorses this stuff?

All of this was used by Mr Jacobs at various times during his 60+ years of his teaching thousands of students. Major Brass Legends and teachers throughout the world use these devices and have their students order them. Symphony players and teachers of all wind instruments worldwide use these.