Klarinet Archive - Posting 000520.txt from 2002/09

From: GrabnerWG@-----.com
Subj: Re: [kl] Could use eefer help
Date: Tue, 24 Sep 2002 17:27:06 -0400

I wanted to thank everyone for their help with my recent "eefer" problem.

The problem is now solved. The issue was really one of embochure and "voicing". I haven't played anything really substantial on Eb for several years. I did get to play that great little solo in "Symphonie Fantastique" last spring, but that really didn't go into any extreme ranges.

Two weeks ago I pulled the Eb out of mothballs, after having not played it all summer and was faced up with the part from "Four Sea Interludes" for "Peter Grimes", which is replete with high F#'s, G's< G#'s, and a few A's.

The first rehearsal did not go well! LOL.

After some practise and reviewing a lot of the suggestions I received here, I came to realize the problem was not one of "fingerings" or a harder reed, although a substantial reed is necessary. It was really how I was - or actually not - voicing the sound.

I am not good at describing physical sensations in words, but I belive that the process involved:

1. Arching the back of the tongue slightly higher
2. not biting harder, but focusing the embouchure more firmly 3. Taking slightly less mouthpiece than I had been.

When I accomplished these three things, the G's and the G#'s came popping out, with a degree of control with which I was happy.

Thanks for the help people.

Walter Grabner
www.clarinetxpress.com
Soprano, Eb soprano, bass, and NOW alto clarinet mouthpieces

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