How is picking up clarinet after playing the flute for a long time?

Question:

How is picking up clarinet after playing the flute for a long time?

I have been playing the flute for 11 years. Does anybody have experience with these two instruments, or have any suggestions?

Thanks!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I am a flute player first and my secondary instrument is the clarinet. It isn't too difficult a transition. The fingering system isn't too hard to get used to and the transition for your embouchre isn't as difficult as it is between flute and trumpet. In fact the only instrument I had an easier time with was french horn. The only things I would caution you about is when you switch make sure that you are NOT practicing for too long and that you start on a low enough reed strength. My suggestion would be to start the first couple weeks on a 1 1/2 reed and only practicing 15 minutes at a time. At that point I would suggest adding 5 minutes to your time every couple weeks. Once you get up to a half hour then switch to a 2 strength reed. My suggestion would be to ONLY use Van Doren reeds once you get to a 2. They are more expensive but well worth the price in the difference they make in tone quality. If you have any other questions I would be happy to answer them. I am a private music teacher and love to see people expanding their musical horizons. One final word of caution. I would suggest making sure that you are practicing your flute as well unless you are giving up flute because otherwise the clarinet can damage your flute embouchre. Good luck to you :)