Klarinet Archive - Posting 000208.txt from 2002/06

From: Tom.Henson@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Caruso Long Tones
Date: Thu, 6 Jun 2002 16:08:55 -0400

Hello all,

I've been back into playing clarinet now for about 9-10 months now after a
25 year vacation and finally took my first private lesson since then last
Saturday.

I was a little nervous as to what the instructor would think of my ability
and whether she would accept me as a student. She did, and I'm grateful to
her for her patience.

Since I am still trying to get my embouchure back (among other things), she
right away suggested that I spend about 20 minutes a day on Caruso Long
Tones. From what I understand, and I have searched Google on this phrase, is
that this was developed mainly for brass players. She showed my how to do it
so I can practice them. I am also using a mirror now in my practice
sessions.

Do any of you that teach have any suggestions as to strengthening the
embouchure? Have you used this method before?

She told me that she attended a master class by Sabine Meyer and that she
related to the class that her entire first month in university was spent at
the insistence of her teacher playing nothing but long tones while standing
with her back flat against the wall.

Needless to say, I like her tone. So I have been trying to do this as best I
can, and have noticed some improvement.

Thanks for any and all input.

Tom Henson

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