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Herbst device

Posted by Curious on 9/10/2025, 2:13 pm

I have a trombone player (6th grade-2nd year player) who recently had a Herbst orthodontic device installed. I have done a little research on it. All that I’ve seen is that students need to play in short amounts of time to build up callouses. Does anyone have experience in helping students with these devices?

Re: Herbst device

Posted by Pretzel Guy on 9/15/2025, 12:09 pm, in reply to "Herbst device"

I'm not sure where exactly the would build up callouses by looking at the device, but I'm sure each one if a bit different. I would try brace wax or cigarette paper (saxophone hack) if it's causing issues.

What "unhelpful" said could be on option. I would be very careful though. I only assign students to double reeds if they have an interest in learning those instruments and understand the challenges of them.

I would never assign either based on physical need alone. But that's not what Unhelpful was really saying either.

Re: Herbst device

Posted by Unhelpful on 9/11/2025, 7:17 am, in reply to "Herbst device"

I know this comment doesn't answer your question because I'm very curious as to the answer myself, but I'm thinking that this kid might have a bright career on bassoon. That severe of a lower jaw recession might be something to use to their advantage.

Re: Herbst device

Posted by Curious on 9/11/2025, 9:36 am, in reply to "Re: Herbst device"

Thank you for that input. We usually move kids to bassoon in the Spring semester of 6th grade due to availability of resources. We may need to consider that as an option earlier than usual. I appreciate you.

Re: Herbst device

Posted by 2A Girl on 9/11/2025, 4:44 pm, in reply to "Re: Herbst device"

Hello,
I wore a Herbst device. It took me some time to get used to it. However, I was able to play my trumpet. When it was taken off, it took me some time to re-learn my embouchure. Be patient. This is a process.

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