Klarinet Archive - Posting 000300.txt from 1996/10

From: Jeff Carwile <carwile@-----.ORG>
Subj: Re: Embouchure and Reeds
Date: Fri, 11 Oct 1996 20:20:58 -0400

I often just lurk on this list, but I would like to say that I find the
information here very valuable. In particular, there are two postings
lately that really hit the mark with me...

The first, about embouchure...

>The most common yet subtle obstacle, for players of all levels, in trying
>to achieve consistently clean attacks, immediate response, crisp staccati,
>full ringing tone, and so many other basic areas of clarinet technique --
>is pinching the reed via too much pressure from the jaw. It really is a
>deficiency which cuts across all boundaries of age and experience >because
the root of the problem is a human one rather than based on >narrower factors.

>Psychologically, too many players perceive their embouchures as a >device
which is supposed to do some kind of "work", some kind of >"job" relative
to *compelling* the reed to vibrate to its ultimate potential. >In
reality, the embouchure should be as uninvolved as possible in the
>process, simply acting as a stable aperture through which the focused air
>stream is allowed to pass uninhibited.

I have found the same to be true, both in my teaching and performance.
However, it seems very difficult for some students to put into practice.

I have used the concepts of
... "blowing through a straw" to focus the air and embouchure
... "lips acting as rubber bands" to develop lip muscles and an even
firmness from the lips
... "minimum, yet consistent pressure of the teeth" to decrease jaw bite

I would appreciate any comments, particularly techniques which others use
to decrease jaw bite and increase lip strength.

Also, there was a statement made about allowing the reeds to dry upside
down. I have also found this helps to extend the life of reeds.

There is an initial period during the breaking in of a reed where it warps
somewhat, but if I sand it flat and then make sure to play the reeds
everyday (or at least soak them for a minute or so), then they tend to stay
flat when left upside down.

Of course, I live in San Francisco, and our humidity is pretty constant.
When I lived in the mountains on the east coast, the air would get very dry
in the winter. I successfully used the same technique with a ziploc bag
and a very small, almost dry sponge that was soaked in salt water.

I find the Harrison reed cases work well, but I do not lay the reeds flat
on the glass as most people do; I put the reeds in upside down.

What is the "french design" reed holder that holds the reeds by the side?

Thanks,
Jeff Carwile

Jeff Carwile
Systems Administrator
Public Policy Institute of CA
500 Washington St., Suite 800
San Francisco, CA 94111
carwile@-----.org
415.291.4481

   
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