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Author: Fermata
Date: 2004-11-28 04:43

hello all ^_^ This will be my first post on these boards.

My question is probably a common one, but I can't seem to find the exact answer I am looking for. Ever since I first started playing the clarinet (about 4 years ago), I have had trouble with my right hand positioning. I find that my thumb is extremely weak, and it hurts to try to play notes that do not require many fingers down. I have heard that the thumb should be held at the 9 o'clock position and that the weight should be on the side of the thumb, with the pad of the thumb on surface of the clarinet. I have tried this position, but for some reason it seems physically impossible for me keep my thumb pointed in that direction. I always find my thumb angling upward, and my right index finger trying to hold the clarinet up by hooking under the side keys. This ends up causing my other fingers to move too far away from the keys to allow me to play fast passages smoothly. This problem, of course, also leads to stress, not only on my thumb, but on my wrist as well. I can't seem to find a comfortable position so that I can balance the clarinet on my thumb. I have wondered if maybe it is just that the muscles in my thumb are too weak to support the clarinet. I'm not sure about that, but are there maybe some sort of thumb excercises to strengthen my thumb? I have also wondered if I'm just incapable of getting my right hand into that position. I once had a teacher who tried to forcefully put my hand in a certain position but couldn't manage to do it. I know there is always the possibility of a neck strap, but I have tried to use one, and I could not seem to get it in a comfortable position to play with. Any advice on this matter would be much appreciated. I truly enjoy playing the clarinet, but I just wish I could be a little more comfortable while doing it. Thank you! =)

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