 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: andrewsong
Date: 2010-07-28 02:47
My overal sound has, I believe, "thinner" and brighter than the sound that I am trying to achieve. I want to go for something more "velvet-like" and rounder overall and "darker". I recently got an amazing Greg Smith 1* facing MP, which has helped considerably. I know that these are all very subjective terms here is an example:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUp4gcbY3L8
I also know that I am biting and my chin tends to bunch up. What can I do to fix these habits and achieve the type of sound that I want to get?
Thanks!
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Author: clarinetguy ★2017
Date: 2010-07-28 05:05
For help with your embouchure, check out this excellent Michele Gingras video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SlFgO4Hi5k
As far as biting is concerned, experiment with double lip. You might not want to switch to it permanently, but trying it (even if it's only on a temporary basis) will help to eliminate biting.
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Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2010-07-28 13:11
The embouchure itself can be thought of as a continuous, firm platform all around the mouthpiece like a rubberband. To get rid of the chin thing you need to engage the cheek muscles (buccinators). If you have ever tried to get a really thick shake through a straw, go for the same feeling (only blowing out, not sucking!!).
The "secret" to a thick, sonorous sound is AIR , AIR, AIR !!!!!! For this, firstly make sure you maximize what you have by concentrating the air as much as possible (form the inside of your mouth as if you're saying "EEEEE" - the opposite and MUCH LESS desirable is "AHHHHH" where in your tongue actually accludes the top of your throat).
And to achieve more air, ensure that you are engaging your abdominals as much as possibel (go for the feeling you would if you were trying to clear out a case of constipation........no really, I'm serious).
If you feel the body of your clarinet vibrating under your fingers, you're on your way. If not, keep trying.
......................Paul Aviles
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Author: JJAlbrecht
Date: 2010-07-28 13:18
Read Tom Ridenour's book "The Educator's Guide to the Clarinet." This explains the biting problem and steps you can take to fix the issue.
Jeff
“Everyone discovers their own way of destroying themselves, and some people choose the clarinet.” Kalman Opperman, 1919-2010
"A drummer is a musician's best friend."
Post Edited (2010-07-28 13:18)
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Author: William
Date: 2010-07-28 15:51
Regarding Tom's always expert and practical advice regarding all things 'clarinet', one should take into consideration that he is a double lip player.
Also, regarding your sound being too "thin and bright", remember that your clarinet will always sound much different--often more mellow or "darker"--to your audience than to you. My advice, record yourself and listen--you may be pleasantly surprised.
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Author: Old Geezer
Date: 2010-07-28 16:07
The book "Embouchure Building for Clarinets" is just the thing for you. Larry covers all the problems you mentioned in detail and with authority!
If you work with it you will find all your problems dramatically improved or disappeared. Larry knows....
Clarinet Redux
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