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Re: Blowing -- is it really so hard?

Author: latb
Date: 2009-01-07 02:20

Thank you so much, this was great!!

I followed the advice and explored a bit where the resistance really came from. In particular Alexi's approach of trying out to just "breath through" the clarinet without making a tone, it helped to established for myself that I can indeed breath -- and it helped to get rid of the feeling of drowning. Then I explored how to establish a tone without closing up the reed. I had to put the mouthpiece in more than I was used to. I was probably pinching the reed off, as Karl suspected.

I also found that a slightly harder reed (Vandoren V12 3) worked quite well. And having found the right "working point" I then could go back to a softer Vandoren 2.5 without closing it up again. Firm but relaxed, of course I will have to work a lot now on establishing the embouchure better, getting some stamina etc.

I started to look for a teacher here in the western suburbs of Chicago (tips, anyone?), hope I can find somebody with whom I can work out a lesson schedule that allows for my travel. I'm really looking forward to getting lessons again!

The most crucial help you guys gave me was probably the simple statement "no, it should not be that hard".

So thanks again, you people are brilliant. I'm so happy I found this wonderful bboard with so many great contributers!

Thanks and cheers, LatB

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