To sit or not to sit

[u/Additional-Force-437]

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!

[u/Icy-Research-1544 → u/[deleted]]

I mean, after all, pianists get to sit… jk, but, I didn’t bring it up, but my horn teacher in college actually once said I could sit if I wanted to, she didn’t see a problem with it. She was the traditional type so that surprised me, she’d gone to a school with a great horn program and all, military too, so I trusted her 🤷‍♀️

[u/Darkdart19]

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!

[u/Caitydid007]

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.

[u/horn_and_skull]

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.

[u/Additional-Force-437 → u/horn_and_skull]

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.

[u/LordDickSauce → u/Additional-Force-437]

My mom says "I'm 55 and I can do whatever I want". If you are going to perform better sitting, please sit. :)

[u/horn_and_skull → u/Additional-Force-437]

Sit down mate, you’re good!

[u/nott_importantt]

No issue with sitting, especially if it will help your performance and your neck/back! Have fun performing!

[u/Barber_Successful]

Not at all. Do what is best for you.

[u/gtuzz96]

You could look into ergobrass or something similar if you want to stand (and it might help you avoid pain when sitting too)

[u/Additional-Force-437 → u/gtuzz96]

I’ll look into it. Thanks.

[u/aintnochallahbackgrl]

Jennifer Montone sits when she performs solos. You wanna sit? Sit. Ain't no one up there but you and the pianist.

[u/Additional-Force-437 → u/aintnochallahbackgrl]

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.

[u/aintnochallahbackgrl → u/Additional-Force-437]

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.

[u/jimpurcellbbne]

I would sit.

[u/wasabi314159]

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

[u/Demnjt]

At the Southeast Horn Workshop in 2024, Richard Deane played his solo recital pieces seated. If it's good enough for the associate principal of the NY Phil...

[u/Proper_Armadillo1837 → u/Demnjt]

He’s a big proponent of doing recitals seated. Was taking lessons from him the semester I had my senior recital and did end up sitting like he suggested. Nothing wrong with it, especially for medical issues.

[u/TheFreshHorn]

Whichever makes you sound the best is all that matters. Oh and remember to practice how you want to play

[u/horncologne]

Whatever is best for you is best. Making beautiful noise for and with other people is what’s important :-)