For many clarinetists, crossing the break is one of the most frustrating parts of playing.
The sudden jump between the chalumeau and clarion registers can interrupt phrasing, introduce tension, and make even a well-trained player feel uncertain. In her tonebase course Crossing the Break(s), acclaimed performer and educator Kimberly Cole Luevano offers a grounded, musician-first approach to mastering this essential skill.
In this featured segment, Luevano focuses on the left-hand roll. Through guided exercises from Jeanjean’s Vade Mecum, she shows how to keep the left hand close to the instrument, maintain stability through the pinky touchpoint, and use slow, mindful repetition to develop fluid, confident transitions.
As she reminds students, “Speed comes naturally once the coordination feels easy.”
By integrating these techniques, clarinetists can transform a technical obstacle into an expressive opportunity. The result is smoother phrasing, consistent tone, and a sense of freedom when moving across registers.
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