Klarinet Archive - Posting 000530.txt from 1996/07

From: Greg Baker <BAKERG01@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Embouchre
Date: Sun, 28 Jul 1996 18:28:10 -0400

Jack,

Regarding your question about embochure, using a double lip embochure is a
really good way of determining how much pressure to use. The reaon I say that
is that the double-lip transfers the job of gripping the clarinet in the mouth
to the lips, which if developed, provide a much more secure aperture.

Concerning the support of the instrument while playing double-lip, a
possibility that needs to be checked out is tenison in the fingers. If there is
tension in the fingers, then slow, careful work on moving the fingers at the
right place is in order. Make sure that you move your fingers from the back
nuckle, which is further back than you might think.

One more thing, kind of along those same lines. There is no such thing as the
"upper jaw." It is only the lower part of the jawbone (mandible) that moves. A
good source for issues such as these is "The Body Moveable," whose author and
publisher info escapes me right now. However, I will look it up, and send along
to anyone who wants it.

In the mantime, best of luck.

Greg Baker