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Clarinet Squeaking

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quizbag | 20:17 Wed 18th Nov 2015 | Music
7 Answers
I am a senior citizen trying to learn the clarinet. Can anyone tell me why it occasionally squeaks and what I can do to stop it? Thanks.
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See if this helps.
20:23 Wed 18th Nov 2015
Blow properly.
Make sure your reed is properly positioned and moistened and not to 'blow' too hard...not that I am one to talk, having made a sax sound like sex.
See if this helps.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnFoHfVt7_s
It also might mean that your reed is the wrong gauge or split of just needs thinning a bit on top (you can do it with a bit of fine sandpaper).
Question Author
Thanks to all for your advice. The youtube video was very good so thanks tonyav. Now I must practise.
Best of luck, quizbag.
You could be gripping too tightly with your teeth/lips, or not tightly enough. Or (a problem I have regularly) you may just be catching a side key slightly with your hand.

Don't be disheartened. Squeaking is very common when learning reed instruments. As you become more confident and your mouth muscles become accustomed to the correct position, the squeaks will stop. It just takes time, that's all.

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