Klarinet Archive - Posting 000077.txt from 1996/10

From: Jonathan Cohler <cohler@-----.NET>
Subj: Re: odd comment (acoustics)
Date: Fri, 4 Oct 1996 02:57:44 -0400

Dick,

As I mentioned in the previous message, the best light reed/open mp setup I
know of is the B45 lyre with a V12 #3 reed. The mouthpiece has 1.27mm tip
opening, and a 22mm lay.

As for the physics of altissimo notes, I have discussed this in some detail
in previous messages (check the archives). Basically, the most important
thing is that one must adjust the lower jaw up or down on the reed so that
the main pressure point on the reed is in the optimal position for the
desired resonant frequency. As one gets in to the altissimo register,
correct positioning of the embouchure becomes critical. In the lower
registers, it doesn't have much effect.

If you can't do a long tone on the high note, starting from nothing, then
you are not positioned correctly. The other elements to play with are the
height of your tongue, and the openness of your throat. Also, don't put
too much pressure on the reed. Very light pressure should suffice
throughout the altissimo.

Most people learn to play high notes by simply forcing them out with lots
of air. At loud dynamics, of course, anything will play. This won't work
at pppp however.

Check out my previous messages for more detail. I don't want to waste
bandwidth by repeating too much.

Best regards,
Jonathan Cohler
cohler@-----.net

At 2:50 PM 10/3/96, Dick Walters wrote:
>Jonathan,
>
>I have admired your thoughtful and scientific comments on the net.
>Two questions:
>
>1) What are some examples of a "light" reed and "open" mp setup?
>
>2) Earlier, during your discussions about pipe resonances, etc, had
>a request to explain in those terms what's happening with partials,
>ie: altissimo notes. I'm sure their physics is similar to mid
> register notes with the register key depressed, but what is really
>making the same fingerings blow two different altissimo pitches?
>When instructed to "think" the higher note, I'm sure there must
> be subtle differences to the resonance characteristics of the
>human/clarinet system at work beyond a different state of mind.
>Maybe a more technical understanding will help an old engineer
>understand how to make these note be more reliable.
>
>Best regards,
>
>Dick W
>
>Dick Walters
>waltersd@-----.net
>