Hi! I can't get low notes out inless i blow really hard then I get out of breath easier. I''m plaing "Primo Canto" for solo contest and there alot of low notes (Gs,Bs,As,fs) and slurs. I only have a couple more weeks before contest so any tips??
I'll edited this when I can find somewhere to upload a recordin of me.

are you using a ridiculously hard reed? i find harder reeds make the high notes come out easier, but mess with the low notes, unless you find a good balance with you and your mouth piece and stuff.

I'm useing a 3.5 Rico cuse my teacher was out of 3s and told me to use a 3.5.

If you are a begginer go out and buy some 2 1/2 reeds. Its about $10 for a pack of ten. Also don't blow too hard or you get squeekyness and try and not put too much of the reed in you mouth.

Probably an equipment issue. Tell us your setup. Mouthpiece cut/brand, Reed size/brand, Horn. That'll help us help you!

Probably an equipment issue. Tell us your setup. Mouthpiece cut/brand, Reed size/brand, Horn. That'll help us help you!

MY mouthe piece is a primer by hite. My read is a 3 and a 1/2 rico (which i said before.) I don't know the make of my clarinet and I'm not quit shure the maker. I think it s vito? I got it for free when I started playing clarinet in 5th grade. 3 years ago. I'm not a beginner!

That's odd. I think I'm in the same grade as you and have had the same amount of clarinet experience, and I'm using a much 'denser' reed (I'm assuming that '3.5 Veradarens' or whatever are denser), and I can get E out fine. I usually loosen up on the reed for lower notes. Don't know why, but I just do. I think that most people get to used to having to play high notes on a clarinet, and then when low notes come, they're putting way to much pressure on the reed.

A 3 1/2 Vandoren, is denser than the same strength in Rico, but mouthpiece also comes into play. The less space between the tip of the mouthpiece and the reed, the denser reed is needed.

You might have some problems with your seal. I'd recommend asking your teacher about it, and/or taking it into a repairman yourself.

Make sure you're not taking in too much or too little mouthpiece. Slide a piece of paper between the reed and the mouthpiece. Where it stops is where your bottom lip should be centred.

Check the adjustment of your reed. There should only be a hair of black visible above the reed.

I hope you manage to resolve this problem.