Klarinet Archive - Posting 000349.txt from 1995/06

From: Tom Ascher <U15310@-----.EDU>
Subj: Tongue position - contradiction
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 1995 15:15:53 -0400

Okay,

I think I've figured out why I'm persevering (perseverating?) in this
question.

I think I'm trying to do something that's impossible. I've been told or
read that I should keep the back sides of my tongue up against the inner
molars. I've also been told to keep the tip of my tongue up close to the
reed and not let it drop down behind the lower front teeth.

Well, maybe its just my anatomy, but I can do one or the other, not both.

If I anchor the back sides of my tongue, actually in contact with the inner
molars there's no way in the world that I can keep the tip of my tongue up.

I can keep the back sides of my tongue curved up somewhat and in the direction
of the rear molars, but not actually touching them, and certainly not pressed
against the inner surfaces - - when I keep the front tip up close to the reed.

Is this something that can be attempted, practiced and mastered with time?

I'm inclined to just go ahead as I have been, keeping the tip up close to
the reed and the back sides curved up in the direction of the rear molars
but not actually touching, as I seem to play best this way.

But, if I'm doing something that will inhibit my development and its really
worth practicing, learning to keep the backsides in TOUCH with the rear
molars, someone please let me know!