Throat engagement in Xiao playing

[phoenixiao]

Hoping to check with fellow Xiao players their experience and perspectives.

I've read much material that embouchure control is the key towards change of pitch, and of course the engagement of abdominal breath. However, I've been noticing that a drop from higher notes to lower ones, especially to lowest (筒音, all holes closed) can trigger a throat reaction. My teacher said it was not necessary to use the throat but I'm not sure how to disengage it as it comes subconsciously.  At times it can even create a minor throat sound, which I find annoying.

[phoenixiao]

Hmm...think I found my own answer from Master Liao's website: donsiau.net/teach.htm

大部分的人吹簫都會有喉嚨的異聲，這情形有些人即使非吹管樂器，例如拉胡琴也會有，都是身體沒有完全放鬆，這需要一段時間的調整自己吹簫的用力點，多餘的緊張盡量消除，就像高聳的雙肩一班。

Translated it means:
Most Xiao players produce an odd throat sound, and even non wind-instrument players produce it, e.g., huqin players. It's caused by incomplete relaxation of the body. This requires time for developing our skill on where to focus our strength and dissolve unnecessary tensions in other areas. It's similar to how one's shoulders are raised when tense.