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 I can't play the altissimo notes anymore!
Author: Bb 
Date:   2002-06-17 15:11

I just can't play the E,Eb,F,F# and G. I can play the highest three notes(A,B, C) almost effortless. So how come I can't play the lower altissimo notes?? I've tryed it with 8 different reeds and I can't play'em (the E,Eb,F,F# and G)The F and F# WILL NOT COME OUT AT ALL, only air. Could it be bad pads???? I've been using the same setup for months(mp is M13 profile 88, Reed is V12 #5, clarinet is R13 Vintage) What could be the problem???

Thanks?????

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 RE: I can't play the altissimo notes anymore!
Author: jez 
Date:   2002-06-17 15:41

Have you tried any different fingerings?
There's lots of alternatives in the Woodwind fingering guide here on sneezy.
I also wonder if a #5 reed makes it easier for the top 3 notes to the detriment of the lower altissimo. You might have more control with something softer.
jez

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 RE: I can't play the altissimo notes anymore!
Author: Jack Kissinger 
Date:   2002-06-17 16:42

Because you have been able to play these notes in the past and aren't having trouble with the extreme altissimo, I doubt that fingering is the issue. Rather, I suspect a slight leak somewhere high on your upper joint. Are you playing E-G with the left-hand index finger open? If so, try pressing down on the ring (without covering the hole) on the left-hand index tone hole while playing in the problem range. If that helps, the culprit could be the small pad under your A key on top. Also check the seal of your A and G# throat keys (make sure the adjusting screw on the G# key isn't in too far) and the right-hand throat/trill keys (particularly the top three).

Try the "suck"test on your upper joint. If you can't create a vacuum, there is a leak. In this case, however, since your only problem is with altissimo, the leak may be so slight that the suction causes the offending pad to close so also try the "blow" test. If you can feel air escaping with light/moderate air pressure, a leak is also probable.

A decent repair tech will probably be able to find and fix the problem relatively inexpensively.

Best regards,
jnk

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 RE: I can't play the altissimo notes anymore!
Author: Jabber 
Date:   2002-06-18 06:27

If i've read accurately, your strength reed is not the suggested size for that type mouthpiece. The vandy profile 88 M13's work best with V12 3.5's- 4's... that might make a significant problem... my question is this... are you over blowing those note or are you getting an undertone/grunt? if it's the former than your reed strength can be the problem. If it's the latter than you might not be supporting enough. Support not bite!

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 RE: I can't play the altissimo notes anymore!
Author: Mandy 
Date:   2002-06-18 13:35

V-12 5!!!!! My oh my you might just want to try using one of those babies to level up a wobbly table or wedge a swinging door!You certainly have better lungs than me.

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 RE: I can't play the altissimo notes anymore!
Author: DLE 
Date:   2002-06-25 22:57

With a V12 #5, I'm surprised you can get any top notes at all, it must be like blowing under a plank of wood!
Sorry, but getting a softer reed would be plain common sense in this situation I feel.

Anyhow, what about this. I have always had problems with playing top e-flat, and top e. Both of them want to 'lip up' to g# and a. It's EXTREMELY irritating. I know it is to do with the tightness of my embouchure (I bite too hard), but if anyone has any other ideas, who knows it may help the both of us, and anyone else...
DLE.

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