Mastering the Altissimo Register on the Clarinet

Playing in the altissimo register on the clarinet can feel like climbing a mountain for many players. It's the highest range of tones, typically starting around the written high C (C6) and extending even higher into notes that are both rich and challenging. For those brave enough to go beyond the standard notes, mastering the altissimo register opens up new ways to express yourself musically.

Understanding the Altissimo Register

The altissimo register isn't just about playing higher notes; it's about producing quality sound and maintaining control. It often requires more skill and instrument awareness than lower registers. Knowing how your clarinet works, including how to shape your mouth and use your fingers, is key.

The Importance of Proper Equipment

To create a good altissimo sound, your choice of clarinet and mouthpiece matters. Brands like Martin Freres are known for making quality instruments that help with higher note production due to their design and precision. Using the right mouthpiece and reed combination can also give you the clear sound needed for high notes.

Breath Support and Control

Good breath support is essential for playing in the altissimo register. Here are some ways to improve your breath control:

Diaphragmatic Breathing: Practice breathing deeply from your diaphragm instead of taking shallow breaths. This helps create a steady airflow, which you need for the altissimo range.
Long Tone Exercises: Do long tone exercises every day. Try to hold your breath for as long as you can while keeping the pitch and sound clear.
Dynamic Control: Practice playing quietly in the altissimo register to get better at controlling volume and pitch. Slowly try playing louder while keeping the tone quality good.

Technique	Description	Benefit
Diaphragmatic Breathing	Deep breathing from the diaphragm	Steady airflow for altissimo range
Long Tone Exercises	Holding notes for extended periods	Improved pitch and clarity
Dynamic Control	Practicing soft to loud playing	Better volume and pitch control

Embouchure Formulation for High Notes

How you shape your mouth (embouchure) is crucial for playing in the altissimo register:

Firm but Relaxed: Your lip muscles should be firm enough for control, but not so tight that they block airflow. Finding the right balance is important.
Mouthpiece Placement: Try different positions for the mouthpiece in your mouth. Look for the spot that gives you the best control and feels comfortable.
Practice Variability: Experiment with slightly changing your embouchure for different notes. Sometimes, a small adjustment of your lips or jaw can help you play a particular note better.

Fingerings for the Altissimo Register

Finding the right fingerings is crucial when playing in the altissimo register. Some notes in this range aren't in standard fingering charts. Here are some common fingerings to remember:

C6 (high C): Often played with the standard fingering but might need adjustments in how you shape your mouth and control your breath.
D6 (high D): This needs a different fingering; many players use the side keys to help project the sound.
E6 (high E) through G6 (high G): These notes often need changes to your usual fingerings. Using side keys and forked fingerings can help make the notes more stable.

Practice Exercises for the Altissimo Register

To get better at playing consistently and accurately in the altissimo register, you need to practice regularly:

Scales and Arpeggios: Start practicing your major scales and arpeggios up to the altissimo register. Begin slowly and gradually speed up as you get more precise.
Slurred Legatos: Focus on playing smooth, connected passages that require you to move smoothly between notes. This helps you play more fluidly.
Intervals: Practice interval exercises that move step by step through and into the altissimo range, making sure you keep the pitch steady and support your breath.

Listening and Imitating Techniques

Listening to professionals and experienced players is very helpful:

Recordings: Listen to good-quality recordings of clarinetists who are known for playing well in the altissimo register.
Live Performances: Go to concerts to see how live performances work, noticing how different players use breath support and fingerings.
Imitate Techniques: Try to copy phrases and techniques you like in these recordings. The goal is to recreate not just the sound but also the control and feeling behind it.

The Legacy of Martin Freres

In clarinet playing, the Martin Freres brand is known for making excellent instruments. They make clarinets for players of all levels, helping musicians develop their skills. When you're working on the altissimo register, using a Martin Freres clarinet can help you reach those high notes more easily and precisely.

Learning to play in the clarinet's altissimo register can help you express yourself in new ways musically, letting you push your limits and explore your creative abilities. With practice and the right equipment, you'll find it rewarding and enjoyable to master this challenging part of clarinet playing.