Klarinet Archive - Posting 000194.txt from 1996/01

From: Michael D Moors - Alpena <mdmoors@-----.US>
Subj: Re: Intermediate Method Books
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 1996 23:08:05 -0500

Gary,

I still find the Rubank method to be one of the most comprehensive series
available. I have found the following problems with the clarinet books:

1. The elementary book is difficult for young students.

Solution-use a band method like: Best in the Class, Essential
Elements, Ed Sueta as the first book. Then run the young student through
the Elementary book. After students master the elementary book I feel
they are all ready at the intermediate level. THe review is great at this
young age.

2. The intermediate book is dry. Supplement, Supplement. I use the
Lester, Klose, Lazarus and many other sources to keep interest high. I
also have several easier solos that I use. The Rubank intermediate book
has some strong points: a. Breath control studies b. Review of
alternate fingerings and technical studies. I have never used it as a
stand alone book.

3. The 2 advanced method books are excellent. They cover scales in a
great fashion and have wonderful duets to hold interest.

Mike Moors

On Tue, 9 Jan 1996, Teri Herel wrote:

> In a message dated 96-01-08 17:59:20 EST, mccmis@-----.com (Gary Van Cott)
> writes:
>
> >
> >There was some discussion recently about method books for beginners.
> >I would like to ask for recommendations for a young intermediate.
> >
> >My son is 12 and has been taking lessons for about 18 months. He is most
> >of the way through the Rubank Intermediate book. At this point, it
> >seems that he finds a few measures to be quite difficult in each
> >exercise. At his age and skill level this is frustrating to him.
> >
> >Naturally, I don't want him to become too frustrated. What I think he
> >needs is a book that slowly and comprehensively builds the skills he
> >needs to successfully play the instrument. I think his teacher would
> >be open to suggestions. She has a good background but only
> >teaches part-time and may not be aware of everything that might be
> >out there now.
> >
> >[I think there is a hidden question in my post so I will spell it
> >out. Has anyone (individual or group) made a comprehensive study of
> >the skills required to play the clarinet and created a method based
> >on that study? When I look at my (old, but still in print) books they
> >seem to be much more art than science.]
> >
> >Gary Van Cott
>
> I start using the Leon Lester Progressing Clarinetist about half way through
> the Rubank first book. The songs are fun, (melodically interesting for the
> teacher, too) relatively short, at a beginner level, and introduce slowly new
> rhythms, notes, and time signatures. I then move on to the Lester Advancing
> Clarinetist, along with many other copied exercises & such pulled from MANY
> sources. Unfortunately I have not found one comprehensive book for the
> beginner to intermediate.
>
> I'd like to tactfully (If there is such a way) suggest a more advanced
> teacher. Although it may cost more, the advantages are invaluable.
>
> Good luck, Teri Herel
>

   
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