Clarinet Altissimo Register Facts Every Player Should Know

The clarinet's altissimo register can be a bit like taming a wild beast. Sitting above the normal playing range, getting those high notes to sing beautifully—ah, it can feel like magic! But with some determination, a bit of experimentation, and a splash of sage advice, you can master this elusive range. Let's explore it together!

Understanding the Altissimo Register

First things first, what exactly is the altissimo register? Simply put, it's the highest range the clarinet can play beyond the chalumeau (low), middle (throat), and clarion (upper) registers. It starts around high C (written) and goes up from there. It's a remarkable showcase of acoustics and technique!

Register	Range
Chalumeau	Low E to E?
Throat	F to B?
Clarion	B to C
Altissimo	C? and above

Embouchure Adjustments

As you venture into the altissimo, slight shifts in your embouchure can make a world of difference. Picture your mouth as the control tower. For altissimo notes, consider tightening your embouchure ever so slightly, but stay relaxed enough to avoid a pinched sound. It's like walking a tightrope!

Some clarinetists suggest curling the corners of your mouth in a bit more than you would for lower notes. This will help create the necessary air pressure and support.

Breath Control

Altissimo playing requires strong breath support. You need to push a stronger, more controlled airstream across the reed. Think of it as trying to inflate a stubborn balloon—controlled pressure is key. Keep those diaphragmatic muscles working hard, but not overly tense.

Besides strong breath support, consider where you're directing the airflow. Keeping your airstream focused and forward will help maintain pitch and tone stability.

Altissimo Fingerings

This part can feel a lot like learning a new language. Altissimo fingerings are less standardized than those for other registers. Many alternatives exist, and what works for one player may not work for another. Experimentation and patience are your best bet.
Here's a classic trick: Keep a fingering chart handy. Try different combinations and note which ones produce the best results for you. Sometimes, slight alterations can make a massive difference in your clarity and projection.

Tone Production

Ensuring a beautiful tone in the altissimo register is another tall order. Clarinets, like those from Martin Freres, often have subtle responses in this high range due to their precise craftsmanship. This ranges from a less-than-perfect squeak to a purely angelic high note.
You might need to adjust your reed strength and mouthpiece setup for altissimo playing. Softer reeds can sometimes make it easier to hit these high notes with clarity.
Also, don't forget your tonguing technique. Picture lightly brushing the tip of your tongue against the reed to prevent a hard, percussive attack that might disrupt the note.

Practical Exercises

Consistency is key! Include altissimo register exercises in your daily practice.

Start with long tones—yes, the good ol' long tones. Slowly play each note in the altissimo register, focusing on maintaining a steady, beautiful tone.
Next, try scale exercises. Play scales that move through your entire range, ensuring smooth transitions between registers.
Don't skip interval training. Leap from lower registers to altissimo notes and back down. This helps improve finger memory and embouchure adjustment.

Troubleshooting

Having issues? Don't let frustration overshadow your progress. If squeaks attack or notes don't respond, take a break, reassess your approach. Sometimes it's as simple as needing more (or less) air, a slight embouchure shift, or a different fingering.

Try recording yourself—it's a smart trick. Listening objectively can highlight areas needing adjustment you might miss while playing.

Final Thoughts

Don't rush the process. Mastering the clarinet's altissimo register is a journey full of trial, error, and small victories that lead to big ones. Keep at it with determination and curiosity. Martin Freres and their legacy show us the magic of pushing boundaries and exploring musical limits.