Warming Up to Warmups
Behind every strong performance lies a fundamental first step — the warmup. Warmups are crucial not just for performances, but also for practice sessions and rehearsals. As a clarinet player, tone quality is everything. So when I skip a warmup, problems can arise such as an unfocused embouchure or an unresponsive reed.
Some days, a reed simply will not cooperate, whether it be due to temperature or its own quirks, so warming up gives us the chance to adjust and test reeds before diving into the music. Reeds are unpredictable, but just a few minutes of warmup helps the reed settle in, improving response and making articulation smoother. Furthermore, warmups give us the opportunity to adjust our embouchure, focus on breath support, and listen to our tone.
For example, long tones especially help stabilize intonation and develop dynamic control. Speaking of long tones, let’s go over some common clarinet warmups, which are also great for other instruments!
Long Tones
First, to clarify, long tones means sustaining notes for 10 to 20 seconds at various dynamics. I personally prefer to start at pianissimo, crescendo to fortissimo midway, then decrescendo to pianissimo again. You ideally should focus on starting and ending each note cleanly, and aim for a smooth, steady tone throughout.
Scales
Next, playing scales slowly or quickly, slurred or tongued, is a great warmup. Playing scales warms up finger coordination and improves intonation across registers. I highly recommend using a tuner to ensure that you are in tune throughout the entirety of the scale. Also, don’t forget about arpeggios and thirds, as these help with intervals and show up often in real music.
Articulation Drills
One more warmup involves articulation drills. Working your way through tonguing exercises using quarter notes, eighths, triplets, and sixteenths drastically improves tongue control and speed. Practice on any pitch and various rhythms. For me, articulation drills were the most helpful, as I particularly struggled most with tonguing fast runs and fast scales.
Closing Thoughts
With that said, always make sure you take a few moments to warm up before you practice or perform. Use a tuner when possible! Learn your instrument’s tuning notes and adjust accordingly. For instance, clarinetists typically tune to concert Bb and F. Warmups set the foundation for skilled playing. Make it a routine!
