Klarinet Archive - Posting 000304.txt from 1996/07

From: "Susan E. Pontow" <FBVB@-----.BITNET>
Subj: Re: recordings minus the clarinet
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 21:38:14 -0400

Shylene,

I hope I am not being intrusive or insulting. I will be graduating in May with
a degree in both music performance and education. I also have the goal of
auditioning with orchestras. From my experience, I believe that the best thing
to do would be to study with a great teacher. Practicing on your own is fine
for technical matters, but for matters of interpretation, repertoire, what to
expect in an audition it is best to study with a teacher. Preferably one who
has a position in a prominent orchestra. Also, the contacts you make through
your teacher will be quite valuable.

I also think it's important to play with other musicians as often as you can,
which is difficult to do in a small town. I go to school in the small town of
Indiana, PA, and while there are about 200 music majors, everyone is so busy
that it's difficult to create small groups. Sometimes I wish that I had gone
to a school in a city, so that I would have more access to musical
opportunities. Anyway, I have to be willing to travel for opportunities, or
just move. I plan to attend graduate school in a city for that express
purpose.

I don't mean to tell you what you should or shouldn't do. These are just from
my experiences with my teachers and colleagues.

If anyone thinks I am misguided in my beliefs, please feel free to say so.

Sincerely,

Susan Pontow
fbvb@-----.edu
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Mathematics Education
Music Performance
Music Education