This exercise is the key to playing the "break" (A to B or a to Bb) smoothly and effectively. The left index finger must remain curved at all times and mold to the G# and A keys, as well as the F# ring. This four-minute film shows the steps to take to master Secret 18 (from my book "Clarinet Secrets" Scarecrow Press, 2004): the Left Index Finger Exercise.

Learn a way to practice this orchestral excerpt with less finger tension.

Analyze natural finger motion to minimize tention and improve technical dexterity.

Learn the flat chin exercise to improve embouchure and tone.

Learn various fingerings to rectify common intonation problems and improving tone colors in the throat register.

Learn how to play clean and light staccato by not crushing the reed with the tongue.

Learn how to dissociate the jaw muscles from the tongue muscles to improve staccato clarity.

Learn how coordinating fingers and tongue greatly improves short staccato clarity.

Learn a technique to improve light and rapid staccato.

Author Michele Gingras presents her book Clarinet Secrets.