| Like starting with any instrument, beginning clarinet is | | | | The clarinet itself will last longer and have less need |
| a process of learning that involves both great | | | | for repair if it is looked after properly, which includes |
| achievement and the occasional setback. However, if | | | | cleaning after each time it is played and being put in |
| the beginning clarinetist follows a few tips relating to | | | | its case properly. |
| clarinet care and clarinet playing, the success is sure | | | | One of the most difficult things for the beginning |
| to outweigh the setbacks. | | | | clarinetist is getting the embouchure correct. The |
| The first thing that a new clarinet player should learn | | | | embouchure is how the lips are shaped to hold the |
| is to put together their instrument properly, and how | | | | mouthpiece and create the correct vibration of the |
| to hold it. One of the important things when putting a | | | | reed. Make sure that the bottom teeth are covered |
| clarinet together is not to force any part into | | | | by the bottom lip and that the top teeth are |
| another, and that the side lever is up when the lower | | | | touching the mouthpiece, but not clamping down too |
| and upper parts are put together, otherwise bent | | | | tight. It is normal for beginner clarinet players to have |
| keys could be the result. | | | | a lot of squeaking! As you continue to learn and |
| This type of care should be extended to all parts of | | | | practice, this annoying part of beginner clarinet playing |
| the clarinet - while it is inevitable that reeds will | | | | should disappear. |
| eventually split, they will last longer with careful care. | | | | |