The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Riona
Date: 2007-02-14 22:40
Well, I took my new used clarinet in to get an estimate on repair and the guys at Roper told me it would be better off as a lamp. They did set me up with a nice looking signet though. So I'm renting to own this one and am going to figure out how to make a nice conversation piece out of my Fontaine. I'm also going to be going to the college to take music lessons from the professor there once I get some more cash
Edit: Also I have a selmer goldtone 3 for the mouthpiece, and a michael lurie(sp) #3 reed. My professor suggested the brand, and also that I get a 2.5 reed. I was playing on 4s before, so I figured I would up that to a 3 to begin again with. As far as everything else, it is just what came with the clarinet. I'm assuming all original parts, but it was repaired there before going up for sale, so I'm assuming it'll play well for a while. Also got a small book of Pirates music(hey, something I know) to mess around with until I scrape up the cash for lessons, and I figure it'll get me into a bit of shape.
Post Edited (2007-02-14 23:00)
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Author: Riona
Date: 2007-02-14 23:48
Well, I've got another question from reading on these boards. I never really learned that much in HS. Just the general "normal" way to finger a note, or how to put my 'net together(a good skill no doubt!) and how to read sheet music. Nothing about embouchure(spelling way off, huh?) or alternate fingerings or anything of the sort. I'd really like to be able to get a decent grip on my playing before I go in to get lessons and sound like a totaly incompetant person.
I'm assuming I wasn't too far off in school since I got 2nd chair my 2nd year and got 1st chair both years of HS band. Just never did great on it. What should I look for, or should I just ask my prof about it when I get into classes?
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Author: Bob Phillips
Date: 2007-02-15 01:15
I hope your new teacher won't regard any of your questions and concerns as dumb. I don't.
Your concerns form a core part of what you are about to start learning. You will want to be dexterious in the use of alternate fingerings.
An alternate fingering can "blend" with your other notes and simplify your movements. They can also improve intonation. There are dozens of helpful altissimo register alternatives you'll want to have in your finger memory. In the meantime, expect to put down a lot of pencil marks on your music -reminding yourself of what you should choose for the next note.
In my years of work, I'm still trying to improve and stabilize my embochure (including my puffy neck).
Every bit of your air pathway is very important: from diaphram and lungs, through the various bits of anatomy in your throat, tongue segments, and out through the horn requires your concious control.
Rely on your teacher (or trade up to a better one); but, while raising your lesson money, spend time reading with your horn in hand --so you can develop a feel for all the things that are involved in your playing.
Bob Phillips
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