Hi everyone, this is my first post. I hope some of you may be able to help.

I have recently returned to playing the clarinet after approx 15 years. I am finding it difficult to play across into the upper register without having to blow a lot harder resulting in a loud upper register and poor tone. Lower register is great though???

Can anyone advise as to achieving that sweet tone within the upper register?

Could it be my clarinet, it’s 20 years old now and is a cheap Buffet ABS beginner’s instrument. I don’t remember having these problems before though?

I don’t really want to purchase a better quality clarinet just yet.

I am also using a 1.5 reed. I hope you may be able to suggest any ideas to help?

Maybe try a size 2 for your reed, might be good to get teh clairnet looked at, a screw or a pad might be out of place, and if none of those things...then just more practise, 15 years is a rather long time
Good Luck!

When crossing the break you don't need to blow harder. Actually blowing softer and from the diaphram will help you better. Take it easy. Good luck.