I play clarinet, and am having trouble with locking fingers?

Question:I've been playing for six years now, but in the past year or so I've noticed that while playing either one of my ring fingers will sometimes lock up (and totally screw me up to). The only thing that worries me is what if it happens during a concert (I take a lot of solos as first chair so that wouldn't be good)....Anyone know why this could be and if it's that big of a problem?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I've been playing for six years now, but in the past year or so I've noticed that while playing either one of my ring fingers will sometimes lock up (and totally screw me up to). The only thing that worries me is what if it happens during a concert (I take a lot of solos as first chair so that wouldn't be good)....Anyone know why this could be and if it's that big of a problem?

Could be a few things!
1) Tense fingers/wrist
You could be tightening your fingers when you play! A lot of Clarinet players have tension in their fingers because they think the need to 'grip' the Clarinet! When does the locking happen? At difficult passages only? When you are approaching a solo? Or just in general practice! Does it happen in one finger or note? or all? Try and relax your fingers! and do some SLOW long tones. relaxing your fingers after each note!

2) Some form of RSI etc
After repeated playing some musicians can get RSI in their wrists! This may cause your fingers too try harder! If you have any other symptons of RSI then see a doctor!

3) Wrong position of fingers on the keys/ or Right thumb
A lot of clarinet players put their clarinet lower down on their thumb! Remember it rests on your thumbnail! eperiment by moving your clarinet up and down youre thumb or moving your fingers side to side

You may also want to ask your Clarinet teacher! They can SEE you play other then just guessing!