Klarinet Archive - Posting 001002.txt from 1999/02

From: Roger Garrett <rgarrett@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: [kl] B natural
Date: Fri, 26 Feb 1999 23:46:19 -0500

> >>I have a Selmer series 10 clarinet. Whenever I play the middle B
> >natural, there is this airy tone that comes out. Does anyone have any
> >suggestions on how I can make this note clear? thanks in advance for
> >yhe suggestion.

Dee Hays responded:
> I suspect that you have a pad that is not closing completely. This has
> three common causes.
> 1. The pad is in bad condition.
> 2. The key is bent or the spring is out of adjustment so that when you
> press the key, the pad doesn't completely close.
> 3. The pad has shifted in the cup and needs realigned to seat properly.

Beyond what Dee suggests, the problem could be that you are using too hard
a reed or it is too resistant because it is not balanced. Then, combined
with a less than flexible embouchure/air approach, this note will sound
fuzzier or "airy" to you. Solution? Round out the embouchure, don't
squeeze the reed, blow more slow air, and balance the reed. BTW, if you
need to know how to balance the reed, get in touch with Tom Ridenour!

'94 Cab was great tonight - c/o Peter Randell!
Roger Garrett
Professor of Clarinet
Director - Concert Band, Symphonic Winds & Titan Band
Advisor - Recording Studio
Illinois Wesleyan University

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