Clarinet Embouchure

Question 1

Causes for no tone, rushing air

Answer 1

no pressure against reed, too much reed in mouth, stiff reed

Question 2

Remedies for no tone, rushing air

Answer 2

increase lower lip pressure, less mouthpiece in mouth, sand reed

Question 3

Causes for squak, flat pitch

Answer 3

insufficient pressure against reed, too much reed in mouth, insufficient intensity in air flow, soft reed

Question 4

Remedies for squak, flat pitch

Answer 4

increase lower lip pressure, less mouthpiece in mouth, faster air, clip reed

Question 5

Causes for squeaks, high squeal

Answer 5

insufficient pressure against reed, too much reed in mouth, clarinet angled too far away from body, soft reed

Question 6

Remedies for squeaks, high squeal

Answer 6

stop tone; increase pressure, play again, less mouthpiece in mouth, stop tone; bring clarinet closer; play, clip reed

Question 7

Causes for Stopped or intense air

Answer 7

too little reed in mouth, too much lip pressure, stopped: soft reed, intense air; hard reed

Question 8

Remedies for stopped or intense air

Answer 8

more mouthpiece in mouth, less biting; check for bunched chin, clip reed, sand reed; check symmetry

Question 9

Causes for thin, sharp pitch

Answer 9

too little reed in mouth, tight, closed throat, hard reed

Question 10

Remedies for thin, sharp pitch

Answer 10

more mouthpiece in mouth, “oh” position; review sigh, sand reed