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Wobbly clarion notes

Author: timg
Date: 2007-07-26 01:24

Dear Group,

I've had half a dozen lessons now, and I'm really enjoying learning the clarinet. Part of my "homework" for the summer is to improve my tone in the clarion register. I can sustain a reasonably clear and in-tune sound now, but I'm having trouble getting a clean "attack" to each note.

For example, at the very start of a Clarion G, I can hear a Chalumeau C for just a fraction of a second. Looking at a recording of the sound shape confirms that the lower harmonic is trying to sound.

Any thoughts on what I'm doing wrong?

Tim

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Re: Wobbly clarion notes

Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2007-07-26 11:21

First, don't think attack! The tongue is only leaving the reed to produce an articulated sound.

But let's back up. Try not to do anything odd with your tongue, or just position it as if you were saying "EEEEEE." Now try the open G by sneaking in, that is, relax the embouchure and blow JUST to produce the sound of air, gradually adding more embouchure (and air if you need it) until the sound sneaks in. Once you establish your softest entrance, crescendo for four counts and then back off to nothing in four more counts. To increase the benefits of this practice, increase the count to eight both ways and strive to make your LOUDs even louder.

Then try this on low E and low F which should be the meatiest notes. This is a good way to start "long tone" practice which should help to establish sound.......you need a concept of sound to begin with.

Hope this helps.

.............Paul Aviles

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Re: Wobbly clarion notes

Author: timg
Date: 2007-07-26 21:31

Thanks for the reply. I'm afraid I'm not familiar with your terminology! Is "open G" the upper Chalumeau G (no fingers)? The note I'm trying to sort out is this one:
http://www.phys.unsw.edu.au/music/clarinet/G5.html
The sustained note sounds quite ok; it's just at the moment that I lift my tongue and release the reed that the low harmonic sounds. If I start the same note by using air pressure alone (no tongue), it sounds ok.

It could well be that I'm touching the reed too hard - I'll try to improve my precision.

cheers,
-Tim

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Re: Wobbly clarion notes

Author: BobD
Date: 2007-07-27 11:59

I do believe that "open G" is what you should get with all fingers OFF. Wow....neat reference !! Maybe the register key has a problem. Try removing it and cleaning the register hole. Then check the pad and key action....e.g. is it sticking. Am sure you will get some more expert suggestions. With practice and the right setup you can even "lip up" the Ch notes to their Cl counterpart without using the register key.

Bob Draznik

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