Clarinet help?

Question

I play alto saxophone and bassoon as my two main instruments and am learning clarinet for the school musical taking place next fall; needless to say, I am completely lost with the thing. I keep squeaking and just plain sucking. Any suggestions on embouchure, or clarinet help in general? Thanks!

Answer 1

I've always thought it's harder to switch from sax to clarinet than it is from clarinet to sax, but it is do-able.  You'll probably find that you need a firmer embouchure on clarinet than you do on sax, but don't bite down at all.  You might want to experiment with reed strengths; as a clarinettist who took up sax later, I play a 2 1/2 sax reed and a 3 or 3 1/2 clarinet, but try dropping half a strength from your sax reed which will make it easier for you.  When you've got it under control, try going back up to a stronger reed.

Answer 2

hah, i play sax and bassoon too. I started on clarinet though, so it won't be that hard to switch back and forth when you start getting into it. The clarinet has less air and embouchure than the sax. Use a 2 1/2 reed starting out and don't stress you embouchure or breathing. Too much air causes squeaking with everything. Take it slow, one note... one sound at a time.

Answer 3

u need to put your reed about a half centimeter over your mouthpiece.  i started squeaking too when i started.  you need to say tah and tah with your tongue when u blow its not that easy but its like the sax.  you'll get the hang of it. if u need any more help just email me at [e-mail]

Answer 4

Ok the first rule of Clarinet is SQUEAKS HAPPEN! They will havve from now until you stop playing! There are so many factors that cause the clarinet to squeak its impossible to control every one of them! But the main causes are:

1) Fingers not covering the holes

2) Too tight/ loose embouchure

3) Instrument\

4) Reed

5) Air pressure/ breath support

The only way that you are going to be able to tell is if a clarinet teacher sees you play! You might want to ask your teacher or take a few lessons with one! They can check your instrument as well as the way you play so you don't develop bad habits that are hard to break!