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Re: Moving to high altitude--advice?

Author: Fuzzy
Date: 2021-03-31 03:50

Having lived most of my life above 7000 feet, I can tell you that the systems folks use for reeds at sea level have never seemed to work for me. Maybe it is just me...but I have a feeling the elevation has something to do with it. I simply gave up on the suggestions and found what "works for me."

As mentioned by Katrina...reeds seem a bit harder at elevation. I use a 1/2 strength softer reed "at home." When I travel to sea level, I always up my reed strength 1/2 to achieve the same reed performance. This is especially true if I travel to humid sea level locations (New Orleans, New York, etc. - a day playing in those locations can make me take a full step up by the end of the day.)

As per basic clarinet care - the weather is a bit unforgiving in the winter...but (other than using an insulated bag of some sort to tote your clarinet to/from whatever transportation you'll be using) isn't much different from elsewhere. Keeping the clarinet hydrated can be a challenge at first. I would caution you in regards to playing outdoors in the spring or fall. Temperature can vary greatly from shade/direct sun in the evenings. I switched to non-wood for outdoor performances as a result. 20-30 degree swings are pretty common within an evening performance here.

Welcome to the region!

Fuzzy
;^)>>>

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