Klarinet Archive - Posting 000710.txt from 2001/03

From: "Rebecca Hawkins" <dixihawk@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Help ?
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001 09:37:05 -0500

> I am the section leader of a school band in Singapore.
> I have run into a bit of trouble with the instrument.
> I am currently using a Yamaha 681 II Eb soprano
> clarinet and it seems that when the barrel is pulled
> out too much, the lower octave is extremely flat when
> the higher octave is in tune. I have tried different
> ways such as adjusting the embouchure and changing the
> mouthpiece and even the reeds. Still, I cannot change
> the instrument. Could any of you help me out on this ?

Have you considered adjusting any of the other joints on the horn?
Sometimes a slight adjustment in the middle or the bell joint can make a
difference. Also (some may dispute my philosophy here), tongue placement in
the mouth may affect the air column. I have had several teachers advocate
the "tongue up method": consistently keeping back of the tongue higher in
the mouth cavity in order to focus the air stream more. This usually tends
to correct my intonation problems and variations.

>
> Also, what is the better way to place the instrument
> during a performance and when there is a long phrase
> of rest ? Is it better to place the instrument
> vertically on the right knee or diagonally across the
> lap ?

My personal preference is to rest the clarinet vertically, as it tends to
keep the moisture from pooling in the tone holes and causing those
embarrassing "gurgles".

I hope this helps!

Take care,

Rebecca Hawkins, A1C, USAF
Band of the US Air Force Reserve

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Unsubscribe from Klarinet, e-mail: klarinet-unsubscribe@-----.org
Subscribe to the Digest: klarinet-digest-subscribe@-----.org
Additional commands: klarinet-help@-----.org
Other problems: klarinet-owner@-----.org