 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Slithy Toves
Date: 2004-08-21 13:06
Hi everyone,
I've been reading this board for a few days with interest. I'm just returning to the clarinet after too long an absence. Luckily, everything is coming back to me pretty quickly. Up until now, I've just been working on getting my emboucher back into shape, refamiliarizing myself with technique, and assessing what needs to be done on my poor, neglected instrument.
I'm looking for some ideas and tips for getting back into the swing of this. Unfortunately, getting a teacher is not an option at this point. I've started working through scales again (and am forcing myself to go slowly, since I have a tendancy to want to play at my former level, which just isn't going to happen yet). I'm looking for any other exercises besides scales that may help me to get back into form.
One more question - my clarinet obviously needs work. Definitely new cork and pads. I've been playing it in the meantime, and it still has the nice tone I remember. I have noticed, however, that the upper register is not very responsive (from about the G up). I can still play the notes, but there is a noticeable difference between playing below the F and above the G. Strangely, the very high notes (the C above the staff and beyond) are actually coming a bit easier than the G, A, and B. While I realize that my emboucher is still weak, I'm curious if this could be partially because of the work my clarinet needs? Playing those high notes has never been a problem for me in the past, even when I was first starting out.
I think that's it for now. I've greatly enjoyed reading this board. Believe it or not, I'm playing the mouthpiece that is original to the instrument (my former teacher never suggested I do any differently). After I get my clarinet reconditioned, a new mouthpiece is my first order of businness. It's amazing how much I've learned just from a few days of reading here! Thanks!
Sharon
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Author: ron b
Date: 2004-08-21 18:33
Hi, Sharon...
It's nice to see you back, you're among friends.
The very first thing I'd do in your situation is ask around to find a good local clarinet tech. Then ask to have your instrument checked out. Get the horn in shape first and things will go a lot easier for you.
From personal experience, there's nothing that beats long tones for building up your embouchure and your tone. Be very strict with yourself in the patience department - MAKE yourself do long tones. It'll pay off big-time in a surprisingly short time and the rest will come back almost automatically.
*Guaranteed*
- r![[cool]](http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/smileys/cool.gif) n b -
Post Edited (2004-08-21 18:34)
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Author: Brint
Date: 2004-08-21 19:07
I, too, am returning to clarinet after a *very* long absence. New corks and pads have been installed, and I've been working on tones, etc, concentrating in the low register.
My problem is in the upper register (between the Cs) and may be caused by inability to close the tone holes completely (in addition to weak embouchure). Some of the old familiar fingerings are now uncomfortable because hand joints are slightly arthritic, and I wonder how I can get past this?
_Brint
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Author: Bob A
Date: 2004-08-22 00:05
Brint,
IMHO, you don't. First you find that your "C" Clarinet will not fit your hand, or vice versa. Then your Bb gives you cramps. You wind up finally selling the Alto and concentrating all your efforts on playing Bass, like several of us. But you are still in there, having fun.
Bob A
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