Hello ben again
I cant play B to C on the clarinet fast
what am I doing wrong?
help

Thanks

ben

2 things
1) Which octave? Low B - C shouldn't be a problem, high B - C shouldn't be a problem either, nor should middle B - C given you use the right keys.

2) Are you sure you don't mean B FLAT?! In which case B flat to C in the upper notes, especially the throat (middle line) B flat to C is a real pain. It takes a LOT of practise to get over what's called the "break" efficiently.

For scales, you can overcome this by covering the right hand holes ascending a scale from a throat (2nd line) G upwards, any lower and you'll get a wrong note!

I have a similar problem getting over the break... I suppose it does improve with practice?

Definately

Use the wrong keys and it's not B to C...

Ben, there shouldn't be a problem going between the two, unless there's a problem with your instrument. Do you have the same problem either up or down a 12th, e.g. going from low E to F, as this would suggest there's perhaps a wayward spring or screw rather than a problem with you. Unless of course it's very top B to very top C (three octaves above middle C), in which case all bets are off!

Anakrron, it's just practice I'm afraid. Try building up to it slowly, don't create any psychological barriers for yourself, and make sure you have plenty of air support.

The notes sound G A
I think its in the middle G A
I get all my fingers in place ok but when I blow it nothing comes out

Sorry got It wrong Its written A to B
Deborah There is noting wrong with my instrument I got some one to look at it and Its fine
Do you use the both little fingers or just the left?

Ben again

Hi Ben

I assume you're talking going to B on the middle line of the treble stave from the A a tone beneath it? This is one of the hardest leaps to get - you're in good company because it took me a while to sort it out! Can you play each note separately? Make sure you've got enough air support as well - it's time to put those breathing exercises into practice!

If you really can't do it, don't stress yourself over it. Put it to one side for a while and come back to it later. I promise that there'll be a Eureka moment before very long.

Putting your right hand fingers down may help a little, but this can affect your tuning adversely (but is worth remembering if the throat notes are sharp ), so proceed with caution here.

I tend to use the LH key for middle line B, but it's a very good discipline to get used to using the RH one as well, because you never know when you'll need it.