Klarinet Archive - Posting 000645.txt from 1996/12

From: Fred Jacobowitz <fredj@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: throat problems
Date: Thu, 26 Dec 1996 11:58:27 -0500

Erica,
Sorry it has taken so long to respond, the e-mail server here has
been down for a WEEK! They are replacing the program. I have no problem
with the so-called 'open-throat' concept. However you like to think of it
(if keeping the tongue high works, more power to you), it all boils down
to the same thing; not closing up the throat.

Fred Jacobowitz
Clarinet/Sax Instructor, Peabody Preparatory

On Sat, 21 Dec 1996, Erica Horn wrote:

> Dear Fred,
>
> In my earlier years I always ascribed to the open throat idea. Since a
> summer at Aspen studying with Bill Jackson, (a Robert Marcellus protege) I've
> been keeping the tongue high and wide in the mouth in order to focus the
> airstream and center the sound. The other benefit for me was improved
> projection. Lately I've been experimenting with the open throat again, and
> coincidentally, I've experienced some throat pain (Before I experimented that
> is). I found that by not allowing my throat to give into the pressure of the
> airstream, my discomfort was aleviated. The jury is still out on whether the
> "open throat" is beneficial for me in terms of sound et al.
>
> I'd love to hear more about what you feel the pros & cons are.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Erica
>