Klarinet Archive - Posting 000763.txt from 2002/03

From: "Patricia Alison Smith" <pattiesmith@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Grade 8
Date: Tue, 26 Mar 2002 07:46:24 -0500

Helen Coney wrote:

I know lot of it is up to the player but sometimes my
clarinet can get a little temperamental especially when the exam is held in
an
unheated concert hall.

Patricia:

Helen, I know how it feels to be nervous about a performance! And sometimes
that makes us forget the simple things.

Since you are anticipating a cold hall, don't forget to continually, quietly
blow warm air through your horn while waiting your turn to perform (I take
it there will be several performers). I used to do this, even with the old
Bundy screamers we used out on the piers in San Diego with the Navy Band
there. It meant I could play up to pitch with the trumpets and tolerate the
intonation another day!
In your case, it will not only keep your horn warm, it will also keep your
reed nice and wet, and you won't have to worry about squeaking! (Just make
sure you suck out any excess saliva before you play!)

Best of luck, Helen!
Patricia A. Smith
pattiesmith@-----.net

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