Klarinet Archive - Posting 000784.txt from 2002/11

From: Audrey Travis <vsofan@-----.ca>
Subj: Re: [kl] Introducing tonguing - was "teaching clarinet"
Date: Tue, 26 Nov 2002 00:00:12 -0500

My approach to curing cheek puffing is to have everyone (in the band)
form their embouchure , take a deep breath and blow the air out a little
at a time, under pressure. Almost universally, they are able to do
this. Then we transfer this to their instrument. When individuals with
this problem correct it, they almost always hear (or I point out) a much
more pleasing sound and a vast improvement in intonation. As the band
plays, I point out puffers by catching their eye and puffing my own
cheeks out and pointing to them. Almost all correct the problem as
they continue to play. Obviously then, it's simply forgetfulness since
they 'can' do it when asked.

I agree that the corners need to be different to avoid puffing. When
the kids form the embouchure prior to the exercise I described, this is
accomplished right away; then only simple reminders are needed.

Audrey

Karl Krelove wrote:
>
> Cheek puffing is sometimes tough to deal with because it tends to be an
> all-or-nothing deal.The cure comes from using the muscles in the
> corners of her mouth differently.
>
>
> Maybe someone else on the list has a more organized approach to cheek
> puffing.
>
> Karl Krelove
>

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