The Yellow Board

The Yellow Board
[ The Yellow Board ]

Finger/hand problems related to clarinet

Posted by Old Geezer on 1/27/2025, 6:58 pm

Retired band director and woodwind player. I'm having problems with my clarinet; some neuropathy in my left hand making it difficult to play. I can't consistently cover the open holes on the upper joint. I'm looking for some helps and/or suggestions. Thanks.

Re: Finger/hand problems related to clarinet

Posted by Optional on 2/5/2025, 10:04 am, in reply to "Finger/hand problems related to clarinet"

One thing you could do is put a synthetic finger pad or gel finger tip on your fingers to help cover the hole. It would extend your range of closure and create a surface that is easier to grip because of the texture of the material. I would also recommend some gloves that provide some compression to help you recover while currently working out the issues that your having.

I hope this helped!

Re: Finger/hand problems related to clarinet

Posted by Sounds like on 1/28/2025, 12:57 pm, in reply to "Finger/hand problems related to clarinet"

Good ol carpal tunnel to me. I’m recovering from severe carpal tunnel in both of my hands/wrists—my LH fingers definitely went numb in the hallmark way of CT. I suggest searching around for a good hand surgeon and get in to see them—I underwent nerve testing to detect exactly how severe my case was before undergoing endoscopic surgery. It can be fixed! And, hand therapy after surgery helped immensely.

Re: Finger/hand problems related to clarinet

Posted by Jake on 1/28/2025, 12:06 pm, in reply to "Finger/hand problems related to clarinet"

Talk to a good repairman in your area and see if there is a way to convert those keys to closed hole.

« Back to index

[ The Yellow Board ]