• Answer:  Embarrassing squeaks are the bane of every beginning clarinet player. Some things that can lead to those nails-on-a-blackboard screeches include: • Reeds: if your reed is chipped or cracked, its uneven vibrations can lead to squeaking. Make sure your reed is moist and properly placed before you start playing, as dry and unbalanced reeds are also common squeak culprits. • Hand position: Make sure your fingers are completely covering the tone holes. • Embouchure: If you are holding the mouthpiece too far in your mouth, you will have difficulty keeping control of reed vibrations. • Airflow: Beginning clarinet players frequently hold their jaw too tense and blow too hard, with high-pitched and painful results.