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tuning troubles

Author: Wyatt Evans
Date: 2005-04-28 00:35

Ok another question...Ive finally gotten better in tune, and Im playing much better with 4 strength reeds but now my lower notes are flat and the higher I go the sharper they get. Is this natural? If so what can I do to help. I know you're supposed to drop your jaw when you start going sharp like that but I was just wondering if there was anything else I could do to help. Thanx.

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Re: tuning troubles

Author: sfalexi
Date: 2005-04-28 01:28

My best guess is that you like the sound with the harder reed, but are subconsciously biting a bit down on it in order to get a "fuller" sound (perhaps your embouchure isn't QUITE as ready as you thought it was), and it's causing the higher notes to sharpen up. I experience this with a harder reed on my mouthpiece (which I'm working to get used to).

Also, as a general rule of thumb (although as most people here would know, that phrase should really not be used EVER in a clarinet society), the higher strength reed, the sharper the high clarion/altissimo notes become, the lower the low chalemeau notes become.

I'd focus (and I mean FOCUS) on tightening the embouchure the lower the note, and keeping it very loose and relaxed on the higher notes (which may make it a little more dificult for them to speak, but hopefully you'll adjust and be in better tune).

Alexi

US Army Japan Band

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