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Well, it sort of chose me! When I was 6 years old, my school orchestra needed players, and I got the clarinet.
It is very versatile, has the possibility to be very vocal, expressive, virtuosic, and dramatic. It is always challenging to play at the highest artistic level. I don’t think there is any instrument more difficult than the clarinet to achieve the highest artistry. One must always use imagination and a good VOCAL CONCEPT. See my article in the Vandoren Centennial Etude and Exercise book, published by Carl Fischer in 2005!
I recommend renting a good instrument first to make sure you like playing the clarinet. Ultimately, the first instrument could cost $800-1000USD.
Yes, as long as the student is capable of taking care of an instrument, the higher the quality, the better the results.
I’d recommend a good used professional instrument. Of course, have the teacher test it first. It must be in good adjustment.
Best to consult with private teacher or professional player and have him/her test the instruments under consideration.
Probably wood vs. plastic will give better sound quality.
Not necessarily, but generally, a $2000 instrument will be better than a $200 one.
I’d recommend 8-10 years old, depending on size of hands. Is it better for a small child to start with a simple instrument like the recorder before moving up to a more complicated instrument like the flute later on? Yes, if younger than 8 years or so.
Yes, if younger than 8 years or so.
I don’t know, because I don’t play saxophone. Many players make the switch easily. The key is a good clarinet teacher with a vocal tonal concept.
These are two completely different systems. The Boehm is far more widely used, but the German (Oehler) System is preferred in Germany and Austria. It ultimately depends on where you are located geographically and what the teacher uses.
The B-flat is recommended because it is the most popular and universal.
A 10 year-old with regular daily practice should be able to play decently in a year’s time.
Always bring a professional player or a teacher you trust, or ask to take the instrument “on approval” and have the teacher/professional test it before buying.
Well, the child must be able to reach the holes and be able to form a correct embouchure.
It is always better to start private lessons to avoid learning bad habits.
Small group lessons (3-4 people)_may be beneficial, but single one-on-one lessons are most helpful.
It is possible, but not recommended.
Rubank for beginners, Baermann.
The key is practicing OFTEN, especially for a beginner, to reinforce good habits. 2 or 3 fifteen-minute sessions a day are better than 1.
I recommend standing. It develops strength in embouchure and good posture.
Yes. Your child may need to put wax on the metal brackets from time to time, but later a callous will develop and protect the gums and lips.
Yes. It is generally best if a reed is a golden color, not too brown, not too green.
Talk to professional players in the local symphony orchestra. They should be able to guide you.
It is a good idea to get it serviced by a reputable instrument repairperson. This cost will vary depending on who does the work.
Only if the instrument cracks.
Swab the bore after playing each time with a soft swab that has no exposed metal parts. Yamaha makes some very good ones (microfiber). Avoid getting dust in the keywork. Brush out monthly with a small stiff paintbrush. Is this difficult to do?Not at all. It is a good habit to develop.
Vandoren reeds come in individual cases. Put reed in case when done playing it.
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