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Re: Why does my clarinet squeak on the middle b, d, and c?

Author: kdk ★2017
Date: 2012-05-09 13:18

Jon, since you can cross the break stepwise from A (and I assume likewise from Bb) but you describe a problem going specifically from G to B, have you tried other intervals as well? F#-B or C? G# to B or C? From F? Longer intervals - octaves from chalumeau to B4 or C5? Does starting with your right hand covering its holes make any difference in the squeaking compared to not covering?

The two strongest possibilities I can imagine without hearing you:

Your LH index finger may not be covering the top tone hole when you try to go from G but you are getting the hole covered when you play from A because it's already engaged and near the hole, maybe making it easier to locate and cover the hole.

The other is that the index finger on the A key when you go from A to B may be helping to stabilize the clarinet. When you move from another note without any left hand fingers contacting the instrument, either the clarinet may move or you may reflexively clinch your jaw to keep it from moving. Even covering holes with your RH may not eliminate this because the clarinet can still rotate slightly around your thumb, making the whole setup feel less secure. You might be able to test this by holding the clarinet's bell firmly between your knees to eliminate any instrument movement when you attempt G to B to see if having more stability makes anything change.

Try to figure out how narrow or general the problem is - which intervals trigger the squeak, which don't, etc... Also, it would help to suggest or rule out an instrument problem if someone else playing your clarinet has the same problem or doesn't.

Karl

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