 The Clarinet BBoard
|
Author: Woobaloo
Date: 2018-10-19 05:52
I am a young intermediate clarinetist. I have had my lips burn from extended playing before, and I know what poor embouchure feels like. However, recently I have been practicing in preparation for an audition for a higher band. However, recently I have had my lips burning- constantly, from sunup to sundown. Water doesn't help, and I want to know what to do. Should I practice less?
My shedule is 2-3 hours on weekdays and 3-5 hours on weekends, with marching band & Concert band, if that helps.
Post Edited (2018-10-19 08:03)
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Tobin
Date: 2018-10-19 06:10
That is a huge amount of playing for a young musician. Are your lips red? Do you use any lip balm?
What do you mean by “ambature”? Do you mean “embouchure” — the way you set your lips to play?
Do you have a private teacher?
James
Gnothi Seauton
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Woobaloo
Date: 2018-10-19 08:13
Thanks for the reply!
I do mean embouchure- I thought I spelled it wrong.
Yes, my lips are red, and yeah, I practice as much as I can.
Since marching band starts over an hour after school ends, I have plenty of time to practice, and since I often get home at six, I can practice until 9 if I feel I need to.
I originally practiced with more moderation, but after a rigourous test schedule I found myself asked often why I was not in a higher band, and after realizing people were complimenting me unironically, and that many people seemed to consider me guaranteed to enter the lofty band I aspired to, I felt inspired (and a bit pressured) to push myself as far as I could.
Perhaps a more specific question would be-
How far can I push myself without seeing more downsides than upsides?
(Social issues and Grades nonwithstanding- my freinds are in band, and I retain a steady straight A score)
While I do have a school supplied mentor, I do not have a private instructor.
Post Edited (2018-10-19 08:16)
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: nellsonic
Date: 2018-10-19 09:01
You deserve a great private teacher if you are putting in that much time! Is it a possibility for you?
Frequent breaks when doing heavy practicing are key to making sure it's time well spent. You'll get different opinions on what's appropriate, but I'd say at least 10 minutes rest within each hour. You'll notice how much better you are after a break most of the time. Pay attention to the size of that differential and you'll work out what's most appropriate for you.
In addition to keeping the mind sharp, it's important to rest the body. You may just be doing too much for your level of conditioning. It's also possible that you have or are developing an allergy to cane. You might try a Legere reed for awhile and see if it helps.
As James mentioned, lip balm is important, especially as the weather gets windier, drier, and colder and as you spend time outdoors with marching band. Have some with you throughout the day and use it whenever your discomfort catches your attention. The lips can heal quickly and this can really help.
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Bob Bernardo
Date: 2018-10-20 08:21
What reeds are you using? All Rico brands have pesticides on them. This may be the problem. They make about 25 million reeds a year and 25 million reeds have pesticides on them. Stay away from them and maybe that BURN is from the pesticides and will go away.
Designer of - Vintage 1940 Cicero Mouthpieces and the La Vecchia mouthpieces
Yamaha Artist 2015
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Bob Bernardo
Date: 2018-10-21 23:55
It's also possible that playing with a double lip embouchure will help and make your embouchure stronger and require less effort on your lower lip. If you find that your upper lip is suffering most likely your embouchure needs some attention by a good teacher. This would include breathing support, things of that nature. I'm NOT suggesting for you to switch over full-time. But to strengthen your upper muscles.
Added what mouthpiece are you using? The tip opening is pretty important. Too open will also cause soreness.
Designer of - Vintage 1940 Cicero Mouthpieces and the La Vecchia mouthpieces
Yamaha Artist 2015
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: nellsonic
Date: 2018-10-22 02:37
I've been assuming that 'burn' means skin irritation rather than muscle fatigue. Hopefully the OP will clarify.
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
The Clarinet Pages
|
 |
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
