Klarinet Archive - Posting 000023.txt from 2010/09

From: Janice Rosen <operanut@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] breathing problems
Date: Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:57:31 -0400

Hello,

I used to play the clarinet as a child and teenager and played every day for long hours of practice and performed in my high school band. I never had any problems with breathing or getting out of breath while playing.

I stopped playing the clarinet for about 30 years (which I regret) in order to focus on college, graduate school, and career.

Two years ago I started taking up clarinet and clarinet lessons as a refresher to rebuild my skills and its been coming along nicely.

I am having a problem with breathing, though. I can't seem to play the clarinet for more than 15 minutes without getting out of breath. I do not have asthma. I never get out of breath when walking long distances or singing. I can sing all day without getting out of breath and can hold notes long and steady as well as professional singers can. I never got out of breath when playing the clarinet all day as a child or teenager.

So now why am I getting out of breath so easily with the clarinet? My teacher says this is not normal and wants to help me find a way to overcome the breathing problem. I use a number 3 reed which my teacher says is just right for me.

If you have any suggestions, we would be grateful for the help.

Thank you.

Janice Rosen
Washington, DC

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