The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: kes
Date: 2002-08-28 02:07
Well, it happens to all when they don't have a chance to practice: we get rusty. Unfortunately, this summer I had very little time to practice. :( I have been practicing very often now, but I was wondering if anyone had any additional tips for helping me get back to the shape I was in before the rust started accumulating. Yes I know, Practice Practice Practice, and I am following the doctor's orders here. Any other tips? Anyone? Many of you have been playing for probably 2x or more longer than I have, so do you have any tips? Guide me oh wise ones!
thanks...
:)
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Author: George Lin
Date: 2002-08-28 02:45
Work on the basics. (I know it is hard and easier said than done!)
Resist the urge to immediately play pieces or etudes. Do warm ups first (ie scales, long tones, legato tonguing, varied articulations). This might be about 15 minutes. It will help with your embouchure. Then, play an etude or solo.
Don't overpractice. If your embouchure gets weak, take a break. Quality practice not qunatity of practice.
Good luck.
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Author: kes
Date: 2002-08-28 03:28
Thanks, George! Great idea there. I know sometimes when I practice harder etudes and such after not having played for a while, it gets very frustrating. (Sometimes, through a miracle, though, I will play better than I do the majority of the time when I practice. Lol. Not very often though.) I will put this advice to use immediately! Thanks again!
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Author: ron b
Date: 2002-08-28 05:57
Well put, George, especially the caution about overdoing it. I find that a couple of hot tea or cocoa breaks between (short) getting-back-in-shape sessions does wonders. Great aid to the well known and necessary Patience Factor.
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Author: Jerry McD
Date: 2002-08-28 14:27
I have found that when I come back after a layoff it is a really good time to break out the metronome. Imho there is no better habit to get into than using a metronome regularly, and coming back off a short layoff (or even long layoffs) is a really great opportunity to 'practice in' the habit of using your metronome. Just a thought to add to the already good suggestions.
Jerry McD.
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