Klarinet Archive - Posting 000466.txt from 2003/12

From: "Dee D. Flint" <deehays@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Beginners Problems..
Date: Wed, 24 Dec 2003 08:13:19 -0500

----- Original Message -----
From: "Gordon Ross" <clarinet@-----.me.uk>
To: <klarinet@-----.org>
Sent: Wednesday, December 24, 2003 6:19 AM
Subject: [kl] Beginners Problems..

> Hi,
>
> After playing the flute for the past 6/7 years, I took up the Clarinet a
> few months ago (Just getting used to all the extra keys !) and I'm having
a
> couple of problems, so I'm looking for some advice. My Clarinet teacher is
> stumped..
>
> The first problem that I'm having, is "undesirable harmonics" (i.e.
> sounding like someone is trying to strangle the cat !) It usually only
> happens on A & open G, but does sometimes happen on other notes as well
> like B Flat. I have tried changing my embrouche around, tried various
reeds
> as well, but about 50% of the time an A or G will sound awfull..
>
> The second problem I'm having, is getting the A and open G in tune. My
> teacher says "Squeeze harder on the reed", but if I squeeze any harder, I
> can't get any air through the instrument, and my bottom lip and jaw ache
> after a minute or two.
>
> As I mentioned above, I've tried various reeds, but the most "succesfull"
> reed at the moment is a Vandoran 2.
>
> Thanks,
>
> G

Regarding the undesirable harmonics, make sure that you are not bumping any
other keys accidentally. At this point, you are only supporting the
clarinet with the thumb so it's quite common to have problems with bumping
keys. Does this happen more when you are "squeezing the reed harder"? If
so that can also cause this problem.

Regarding playing those notes in tune, "squeeze harder on the reed" is
generally the wrong way to go. Check your air support. Whether you are
putting a lot or air through or a little of air through, it should always be
high pressure air. You will generally be flat if there is not enough
pressure. Squeezing the reed will NOT make up for it.

Also have a repair tech check the height of the little pad that is hidden
under the touch piece of the A key. If it is incorrect, it can affect the
intonation of those two notes.

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