Posture (for Clarinet)
- Your right hand will be positioned near the bottom of the clarinet, with your thumb underneath the thumb rest on the back. Your index, middle, and ring fingers should rest on the three large, open keys on the front of lower joint.
- Your left thumb will rest on the open hole on the back of the clarinet. Your index, middle, and ring fingers should rest on the three large, open keys on the front of the upper joint. Basically: there are six open keys on the front of the clarinet – these are where your fingers rest.
- Your pinkies will rest on the nearest silver keys.
- The clarinet will be between your legs but should not be resting on your chair or body.
- The mouthpiece will enter your mouth at about a 35-degree angle.
- Whether standing or sitting, keep your back upright so your spine straightens naturally up through your neck. If sitting down, sit at the end of your chair with your feet flat on the floor.