Klarinet Archive - Posting 000770.txt from 1997/10

From: Dee Hays <deerich@-----.net>
Subj: Re: straps/muscles
Date: Sat, 18 Oct 1997 09:08:36 -0400

GrnShirt@-----.com wrote:

> <<what about people with arthritis, small children, or even small adults?>>
>
> I can understand about arthritis or other joint problems. But I am one of
> those small chilren. (I had to play the clarinet because my arms wouldn't
> reach all the positions of the trombone) I didn't use a neck strap. I used
> extra padding for my thumb and basically had to tough it out. I eventually
> grew into my instrument and am now very proud of my thumb, wrist and fore-arm
> strength. I am still quite small, but my arm is strong. I say; DEAL WITH IT.

There is no need to "deal with it". Some people have had to give up clarinet
entirely because they tried to "tough it out" and developed severe tendonitis
and/or carpal tunnel or other severe joint problems. By the time a person finds
out that they are susceptible to such afflictions it is often too late. Why take
the chance? Why be uncomfortable? There is enough to master in technique and
musicianship without tolerating pain.

"Tough it out" and "deal with it" are macho nonsense.

I have seen professional players using neckstraps. I have seen tutorials
suggesting that all students use neck straps so that they don't try to "hold" the
clarinet with their mouth, thus developing a pinched embouchure.

Dee Hays
deerich@-----.net
Canton, SD