 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: davyd
Date: 2008-05-27 03:00
I've been doing a lot of playing lately - more sessions, and longer ones. I've noticed that at the end of the session, I can't hold my embouchure: my lower lip collapses on the right side, and no sound comes out of the horn.
Is this something that will fix itself when/if I take some time off? Or is it a sign of some damage that needs to be repaired?
TIA for any guidance, even if it's bad news.
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Author: Ryder
Date: 2008-05-28 05:10
I used to have the same problem once I began to really hammer the practicing. It eventually went away to give me painless practicing(well almost).
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Author: Tobin
Date: 2008-05-28 14:30
At the very least, Davyd, it is a sign that you should allow your embouchure periodic rest during your practice sessions, and more rest during the later/longer periods.
At the worst you may have a fundamental flaw that is exacerbated when you are greatly fatigued.
Try the periodic rest and talk it over with your teacher before presuming the worst. Rest can be anything from 2min off/10 min or 5min/30min, or greater...you have to determine what works for you.
James
Gnothi Seauton
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Author: Arnoldstang
Date: 2008-05-29 03:08
Try using a softer reed. One half strength down. If you can afford it get the ATG reed adjustment system. It is a great investment. I also play oboe and it is quite apparent with this instrument if you are playing reeds that are too heavy....after awhile you can't hold your embouchure and air escapes around the reed.
Freelance woodwind performer
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Author: davyd
Date: 2008-05-29 04:42
I've seen doctors (to the extent that HMO scheduling will allow); the preliminary diagnosis is a nerve problem called Bell's Palsy, which isn't good, but at least I'm not (yet) dying. More tests are still to come.
My setup on clarinet is a Vandoren B45 with #4 reeds. I'm due for a new box; I'll try #3.5s. My main double is baritone sax: Selmer E with #3 reeds.
Cutting back on playing would probably be a good idea anyhow. I just wish this had held off one more week, until orchestra season was over. I don't have a teacher, nor do I do much practicing.
Thanks for the ideas; the struggle continues.
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Author: John Scorgie
Date: 2008-05-29 06:59
If the diagnosis of Bell's Palsy is confirmed, you probably already know what that means for your playing, and you have my sympathy.
I join the above posters in suggesting that you try lighter reeds on your B45, especially if your #4 reeds are Vandorens or another brand with strength similar to Vandoren.
Although I prefer strong reeds for both clarinet and saxophones, I view a #4 Vandoren on a B45 as a rather extreme setup.
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Author: Tobin
Date: 2008-05-29 12:02
Arnoldstang, John,
Vandoren agrees with you! The recommended setup from the Vandoren website says 2.5/3/3.5 (or 3/3.5 V12's) for the B45.
James
PS...as you are probably aware, the amount of time that a good teacher can save you is immeasurable.
Gnothi Seauton
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Author: DrH2O
Date: 2008-05-29 21:59
Not sure if this is an issue in VA but in New England lyme disease (from a tick bite) is common and if untreated can lead to Bell's Palsy and other neurological difficulties. I know a young woman whose first symptom was in fact partial facial paralysis. If noone has mentioned this and lyme disease is present in your area, it might be worth checking out.
Anne
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Author: klarinetkid
Date: 2008-05-30 10:16
On the brighter side however, I know two people (not musicians), who have had Bell's Palsy and both have completely recovered. Best of luck!
John
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Author: ianm
Date: 2008-05-30 13:57
If you are diagnosed as suffering from Bell's palsy having a look at this website might be useful: --
"www.dundee.ac.uk/bells/"
Ian
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