The Clarinet Page

Care of the Instrument

• Always open with case on the floor .
• Assemble in the manner shown by your teacher to avoid damage
• The reed and mouthpiece tips are very fragile, take care not to break them
• Swab the clarinet after each use
• DO NOT oil the keys unless instructed to do so by your teacher
• Clarinets can be damaged by too much moisture, do not wash instrument
• Clean only in the manner described by your teacher
• To keep it working properly, it must be played each day
• Keep the corks greased regularly to avoid drying out and breaking
• Keep 2 or 3 reeds "broken in" and rotate your practice time between them
• Care should be taken not to bend the bridge key when assembling
• Do not try to repair your instrument without contacting your teacher or the music store

embouchure:

Top teeth should lightly touch the top of the mouthpiece about 1/2 inch down, with top lip pushing down around mouthpiece. Bottom lip should roll slightly over bottom teeth and give solid support (touching about 1/3 to 1/2 way down the reed). Teeth and lip should form a firm seal around complete mouthpiece (like a draw string pouch). You should be able to firmly hold the mouthpiece in the mouth if someone should shake it lightly. There should be no puffing of cheeks or lips. The chin should look flat and pointed. Air should be blown toward the reed and the head should be held up. Remember to keep the corners of the mouth clenched but not smiling.

Clarinet Email lists

You may subscribe to the below list by following the procedure given. The words "Your Name" should be replaced with your legal name. This list will bring you daily correspondence about Clarinet and can be a valuable source of information.

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Clarinet Information Page

International Clarinet Association

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