How do you play a high F sharp on the clarinet?

Does anyone else play contra bass clarinet? How high is possible to play?

• I have been playing for a few months, and I am wondering how high it can play. My instrument is all metal (I believe it is a selmer), it is tall, not wound up a lot. I can play high C# and have gotten high D out once, but not sure if it was it. Any tips?

• Answer:

  Those metals are usually a Leblanc. Fine instruments indeed - in fact, most contra players consider the Leblanc Paris to be the best contras made. Technically, and mechanically, you should be able to play an F above the high C above the staff. Same fingerings as the soprano. Practically, why would we? That's not what this beast is for. This beast is for playing low. If you want to play really high clarinet then get an Ab sopranino or an Eb soprano. If your contra has a range to low C then there's a neat trick you can do to make it a half-step lower to B as long as you can reach the bell with your foot. Take off your right shoe and insert your socked heel into the bell while playing C. Move your foot to adjust for intonation. The best sound for that horn is the low register below the break. That's where you should really concentrate. Any time you need to play an octave higher, pick up a bass. ☺