Klarinet Archive - Posting 000043.txt from 2002/02

From: Audrey Travis <vsofan@-----.ca>
Subj: Re: [kl] Stiff Finger joint
Date: Tue, 5 Feb 2002 10:05:15 -0500

Stephanie, when you refer to the first joint, do you mean the knuckles, or
the point at which the fingers separate from the hand? From your
description, it sounds like the knuckles.... I have the same problem with my
right pinky, but the problem stems from my pinky being too short, so Morrie
Backun is going to reposition my RH pinky keys. Once done, I'll be able to
apply your ideas. I will definitely try them for all other fingers today!

Thanks,

Audrey

Stephanie Smith wrote:

> Try this: make a fist, letting
> the tips of your fingers touch your palms. Now look at the back of your
> hand so that all you can see is your fist, no fingers. Look at the joints
> at the top of your fist. These are the first joints where the fingers
> attach to the hand, and this is where movement of your fingers should
> originate from. Now open your fist slowly and think about the feeling of
> moving your fingers from those first joints. Turn your hand over, and
> look at where those joints fall on your palm. It should actually be right
> around the highest crease on your palm...a lot farther down than you might
> have actually thought your fingers extended! This was a major
> breakthrough to me. Once I started letting my fingers curve and the first
> joint do the work it for which it was intended, my problems with my pinkie
> fingers locking up completely disappeared. I hope this helps you. Good
> luck!
>
> Stevi Smith
>
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------

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