[Beginner] High C hard to play - alto

[pete_m]

There was a question on mid C here http://www.breakfastroom.co.uk/index.cgi?fid=17&topic_id=1147914803 I wasnt sure if I should add this question to that discussion.

My High C is hard to blow and produces a different tone to the b flat and c sharp I seem to have to push harder to get the note to sound. Its feels like something is blocked/not open properly.

Is this normal on an alto? Does anyone know what might casue this?

Thanks for any help.

Pete M

 

[Pete Thomas]

Try comparing it with an alternative high C fingering, which is LH 1 (as for B) and add the middle RH sidekey.

(This is the middle one of the group of three just below half way down the horn in case you haven't got to those yet)

Some players use this whenever possible in preference to the LH 2 normal C fingereing.

 

[pete_m]

Thanks Pete,
Yes that sounds better. Is it common that the convential high C is not as good as the alternate? I was assuming it was my technique - which I guess is still a significant factor. Im trying to understand if I should work at improving the convential High C tone, or get used to using the alternate?

Thanks

Pete M

 

[Pete Thomas]

For me they are more or less identical, if there is a big difference it implies there may be a problem with your horn, hence the question.

When you play your normal C with LH 2, you will see a higher up little key closing along with it. Check to see if this is closing properly. If not it may be you need some cork or felt replacing.

That's about the limit of my technical advice I'm afraid. Griff?

 

[pete_m]

I can see the little key closing on the normal C. The feeling I get is that the air flows more freely through the instrument in the alternate fingering case. The sound is thinner in the conventional C fingering. and I have to work harder to get the note.

This is probably all down to bad technique.

Im going try and find a teacher ASAP.

Thanks

Pete M

 

[griff136]

Pete M

Have you checked to make sure that the bar key ( the little pad above the B key) is closing fully and with equal pressure to your C pad? you should check your C pad is closing fully also.

As Pete T suggested this could wel be your problem.

Q do you find that if you press real hard on your C you get a clearer note? If so then your upper stack (bar key) will need regulating, which could be just a case of replacing the cork on the arms that operate the bar key.

 

[pete_m]

Griff,
thanks for this info.

The bar key seems to be closing properly. I tried to blow whilst adding a bit of pressure to it but there was no detectable difference.

Ive also tried increasing and decreasing the pressure on the C key but no difference (on increasing anyway).

The alto is over 10 years old and has never had a service so there could be a mechanical issue.

I feel like Ive led you on a wild goose chase 🙁

Ill try and get an opinion from a teacher (when I find a local one) and let you know what they think.

Thanks for your help.

Pete M