Clarinet Lesson 1.1 Assembly and Hand Placement

Summary

In this instructional video, viewers learn how to assemble and hold a clarinet properly. The presenter outlines the steps for moistening the reed, connecting the different parts of the instrument, and applying cork grease to ensure a secure fit. Emphasis is placed on avoiding damage to the keys and mechanisms during assembly. The video also covers finger placement for both hands, demonstrating the correct posture for playing the clarinet while seated or standing. Overall, it's a comprehensive guide for beginners looking to start their clarinet journey with confidence.

Takeaways

• 🎷 Step 1: Ensure your clarinet case is right side up before opening it.
• 💧 Step 2: Moisten the reed thoroughly before playing to ensure good sound quality.
• 🔍 Step 3: Familiarize yourself with the different parts of the clarinet: bell joint, lower joint, upper joint, barrel, mouthpiece, and ligature.
• 🧴 Step 4: Use cork grease on the tenons (joints) for easier assembly and to prevent damage.
• 🔗 Step 5: Assemble the clarinet by carefully twisting the joints together without touching the keys.
• 📏 Step 6: Make sure the reed is aligned properly with the mouthpiece and secured with the ligature.
• ✋ Step 7: Practice proper hand placement, ensuring fingers 1, 2, and 3 are on the top and fingers 4, 5, and 6 on the bottom.
• 👍 Step 8: Keep the thumb on the back to cover the hole and help with sound production.
• 📐 Step 9: In a seated position, hold the clarinet above your knees for proper posture.
• ⚖️ Step 10: Maintain a similar posture when standing, ensuring a comfortable and effective playing position.

Q & A

What is the first step in assembling a clarinet?

The first step is to ensure that your case is right side up before opening it.

Why is it important to moisten the reed before assembling the clarinet?

Moistening the reed helps to ensure it vibrates properly when you play, producing a good sound.

What are the main parts of the clarinet mentioned in the video?

The main parts are the bell joint, lower joint, upper joint, barrel, mouthpiece, and ligature.

How should cork grease be applied during assembly?

Cork grease should be rubbed on the corks of the joints to make them fit together smoothly.

What is the proper way to grip the lower joint of the clarinet?

Grip the lower joint by placing your palm on the area without keys to avoid damaging the rods.

What should you avoid doing when handling the keys of the clarinet?

You should avoid touching the rods that run up and down the side of the instrument to prevent bending or damaging them.

How should the reed be positioned on the mouthpiece?

The reed should be placed under the ligature, with the tip aligned with the tip of the mouthpiece and a tiny bit of black visible.

What finger placement is recommended for the left hand when holding the clarinet?

The left hand's first three fingers (index, middle, and ring) should be placed on the top keys, with the thumb hovering over the back key.

How should you position your mouth when playing the clarinet?

Your top teeth should rest on the black part of the mouthpiece, and your bottom lip should cover your bottom teeth slightly.

What should you do if you have doubts while learning to assemble the clarinet?

If you have doubts, it's advised to go back and watch another portion of the video for clarification.