Hi Everyone,
This might sound like a silly question, but what is the correct way to hold a clarinet?
The reason for asking this is that i have not got anybody that could show me right now. I only got it( clarinet) this week. So have yet to find a local teacher.

Thank you

Pugnandum

Left hand on the top 3 holes with index on the top and 4th on the bottom, thumb covering the hole at the bottom, and the index - 4th finger covering the lower 3 holes with the right hand. Hold it at about a 40 degree angle

No Chris, the left-hand thumb covers the hold at the top of the upper joint on the back. On the lower joint is a thumb rest, which should rest on the RH thumb. On both hands, the little fingers are used to operate the corresponding keys.

Pugnandum, welcome to the clarinet and to these forums. Before you start doing too much playing, I recommend that you find a teacher, even if only for a few lessons, as he/she will be able to set you off on the right foot. The longer that incorrect embouchure, posture, hand position, breathing or anything else become ingrained, the harder they become to put right.

What clarinet do you have? Let us know where you are, someone may be able to point you towards a good teacher (or even be able to provide you with lessons).

Explaining something like that in words is hard

I know exactly what I want to say, just expressing it >.<

happens to us all - but I think it nicely illustrates the point that there's no substitute for meeting up with someone who knows what they're doing and helps you get it right from the get go!

Hi everyone,
Thank you for all taking the time to read my post. I've found someone who can start teaching me after the new year which is good.

Thank you

Pugnandum