Klarinet Archive - Posting 000677.txt from 1996/10

From: "Susan E. Pontow" <FBVB@-----.BITNET>
Subj: Re: Bass Clarinet
Date: Sat, 26 Oct 1996 16:31:46 -0400

Date: Wed, 23 Oct 1996 15:54:40 -0700
From: Aimee Kratofil <kchem@-----.NET>
Subject: Bass Clarinet

Dear Aimee,

It's great to see you on the list! When I had a lot of problems with the high
notes on bass, I tried several things. I made sure I had a good mouthpiece.
Several people already responded with using the vent key, which is necessary.
I didn't have problems with the altissimo register; I had the most problems
with f, f#, g, g# on top of the staff. I could play them only if I did not
have to start on those notes. I was only able to start on those notes for the
first time this past Keystone Winds recording session. I found that it's very
important to be relaxed with a very open throat and have a lot of air support.
I experimented until I got just the right amount of embouchure pressure on the
reed (this was the most difficult, delicate, and unstable part). But my secret
for that recording session was to have a reed that was a little stiffer in the
tip than I usually used, so it wouldn't choke when trying to play those high
notes loud. I was quite shocked that I was able to get those notes out every
time so consistently. I believe the most crucial part is to be able to sing
those notes before playing them, so you know what sound you are shooting for.
If I don't do that, then those notes never come out for me. I also have to use
a very light tongue on those notes. That's all I can think of for now.

I hope someone else could give some more specific suggestions on what to do.

Susan Pontow
fbvb@-----.edu

P.S. Aimee how have you been? Are you playing many gigs? Have you spoke with
Mr. Thompson lately?

>The piece she is
>preparing has some entrances on B above the staff, and Db above the
>staff. Right now she can't do that, and I don't think I could either. I
>would like to help her. Any suggestions?
>
>
>Aimee
>freelance clarinetest
>woodwind teacher

   
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