[Back to Basics] 4 Rules for PRIM and Proper Clarinet Finger Movement

[@cindybennett1954]

Josh-how can I break years and years of bad habit. Tonguing with my throat and air, moving my jaw. I know NOW, (I was initially self taught, and no one corrected me) that I should have constant air and release the reed for notes, but I revert back to the bad habit.

[@QuickStartClarinet]

Breaking bad habits is hard! First for the tonguing issue in particular check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3uzdZ9mgtafsLc Then for habits you have to think about the fact that every time we do something our brain gets better at it. So the neural network you have for the bad habit is probably really strong at this point. That means it's easy and comfortable and automatic to do. In order to build a new habit you have to strengthen it to where it is at least as easy and automatic as the old habit. My first piece of advice for doing that is to pay attention and make sure it never feels natural. At least in the early stages, if you feel like you are tonguing mindlessly then you are probably defaulting to the old way. Spend as much time as possible being aware and intentionally doing it the new way so the old way gets rustier and eventually the new way takes over. It does take some time, and more importantly lots of awareness, but you can do it!

[@sovereign142]

Hi, another great video, Josh, I still after 4 months of learning the clarinet, I still have a death grip and as a result I move my hands too far off the keys. Can you describe the pressure needed on the keys. EG dabbing cream onto an insect bite, pulling a car door open, using break on a bike, pressing the computer mouse, holding a mug, unscrewing a jar to break the seal, holding a glass full of water? I know these are all subjective though, but any help would be appreciated

[@QuickStartClarinet]

That's an interesting way to answer that question! I think clicking a mouse feels kind of similar. Here is a good exercise to work on super light fingers: kzbin.infoo8-sMRnV0bM?feature=share

[@sovereign142]

@@QuickStartClarinet I've also just found your Monday music Motivation series, you recorded 3 years ago, brilliant. I think you should repeat them now you are more well known