Easier Clarinet Altissimo

Altissimo Register:

• Notes: High C to E, several ledger lines above the staff
• Issues: Resistance, shrillness, intonation problems

Exercise #1: Jaw Pressure Exploration:

• Too much jaw pressure (“biting”) is a common problem
• Experiment with imagining the bottom jaw pushing down on the reed.
• Finger low C and attempt a series of overtones to feel jaw pressure effects.
• Use thumb on the register key to support experimentation.

Exercise #2: Double Lip Embouchure:

• Practicing with double-lip embouchure can curb your tendency to bite
• Benefits: Reduces jaw pressure, promotes faster air support, enhances tone quality.
• Michelle demonstrates slurring from high C to D and E using a double lip embouchure.
• Initial instability is common, emphasizing the need for breath support and faster air.

Tips for Double Lip Embouchure:

• Curl top lip over top teeth.
• Focus on faster air support.
• Maintain a high tongue position (as if saying “hee”) to improve focus in high notes.