Clarinet squeaking...?

Question

For about two weeks now, my clarinet has had a problem when I've been playing my lower notes, starting with my C. It keeps on sounding like I'm going into my upper register.. I think it may be a problem with the pads on the keys, but I'm not sure. I tried replacing my reed, tightening it.. Might it have something to do with the weather? I live in Central Texas, so the weather is always a bit iffy..

I have a Buffet E-11 Bb Clarinet, and use Vandoren 2 1/2" reeds.

I've never had this problem before, and I have a performance this Friday, and am VERY concerned.

Answer 1

I agree it most likely is your pads or the octave key

Answer 2

based on the part that you said that the clarinet sounds as if its going into the upper register... i think that you have a problem with your register key ( the thumb key). the padding or something is probably off, and i dont think it'll be too hard to fix. i really dont think the weather has to do with it, it might but what do i know.  

Answer 3

Well first- take it to your local repair tech... they can check the pads and key adjustment.

Second, how long have you been playing?  You have an intermediate model clarinet, and are using Vandoren reeds... this tells me that you've been playing for more than a year (or got really lucky and have crazy parents! lol).  So my thought is- since the clarinet doesn't try to jump the octave on A, G, F, E, or D, it is likely an embouchure / mouthpiece setup issue.

If you play A (second space), but a Bb comes out, then yes- it is your octave key.  If it were something wrong with the pads on the lower joint, it would affect your Clarion Register (3rd line B natural to the next octave) from B to G. Since you don't mention this, I look at other things... if you've been playing a while, it may be time to switch to a harder reed.  The muscles in your embouchure have built up and I bet that you are using enough pressure to force the octave jump.  This is REALLY easy on sax, but can be done on clarinet too.

After taking it to the shop, try grabbing a couple Vandoren 3s.  It may be slightly harder to play, but you will adjust quickly- just remember to keep that air support solid and flowing!!!  Also, a slightly stronger reed will help you pop out the high notes easier (but when you WANT them to come out! LOL).  AND... using a soft reed can cause you to overblow to get a better projection- especially on low notes... it makes it more likely that you will blow up the octave or just squeak uncontrolably.

Good luck, and hope this helped! :)