The Clarinet BBoard

The Clarinet BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Previous Message | Next Message

embouchure recovery

Author: silverembroidery
Date: 2019-10-10 01:56

Hello,

When I first started playing clarinet, I was already in the middle of my treatment with braces. I finally got them off nine months ago, but I have been in this continuous cycle of struggles with playing comfortably and producing the sound I want. As of now, my embouchure always seems to feel very loose and insecure in many areas, especially around the corners of my lips. (in the first image, my current embouchure is captured.)

When I look back at photos and videos of my embouchure from before and compare it to my present one, I feel like there are a lot of areas wrong with how I play right now. (second image is my past embouchure) In particular, I have noticed that the corners of my bottom lip poke out/"bloom" whenever I play. There are many other shortcomings in my playing that I am trying to solve, such as:
1. My sound is especially shrill and unsupported in the altissimo register—I have a piece where I have to play high A (4 lines above the staff) and it never comes out. Even when not playing this high, I struggle to maintain a consistent tone in all registers.
2. My staccatos in general are more heavier, and I have more trouble with tonguing fastly. This could be a side effect of my embouchure, or something I should work on individually.
3. My embouchure doesn't last long and collapses after a short period of time.

I've tried revisiting multiple basic tutorials on how to play, as well as recollecting how it felt when I played with braces. However, the issue of my bottom lip still feels like something I can't control.

If anyone has any tips, please advise.
Thank you

Post Edited (2019-10-10 02:20)

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics