Klarinet Archive - Posting 000386.txt from 1997/04

From: Ed Wojtowicz <ewoj@-----.net>
Subj: Re: kids, equipment, reeds--when?
Date: Thu, 17 Apr 1997 08:58:23 -0400

Kimberly Joan Kriston wrote:
>
(if/when you are teaching private clarinet lessons): when do
> you gets kids on good or decent equipment, such as mouthpiece and
> ligature?

> i'm just curious. i guess you could *gradually* have beginners step up
> to better equipment.

I have found that unless a student is playing on equipment that hinders
their playing, initially it is more important for me to get them playing
well, with a good embouchure, sound, technique, etc, than to get too
hung up on equipment early on. As the student becomes more interested,
and develops more sensitivity, I will approach the subject of equipment.
The idea of gradually stepping up is good. I do generally direct the
student as to what to play on, as many students will prefer the lighter
#2 Rico reed or very free easy beginner mpce as "it plays easier". I am
sure that if you follow your instincts, you will do fine.

> also, would it be too much to have a reed discussion/session with
> beginners, such as rotating them, to soak or not soak them, etc?

I often suggest some of these things, hoping that the student will
develop good habits early on. Better to rotate reeds than be celebrating
the yearly anniversary of one!

i also talked
> to a band director who is trying to make his clarinet section more
> consistent by putting them all on the same set up. do you all agree >or disagree with this idea? i can see both sides, so i don't know what side
> to stand on.

In theory, it can sometimes help in that you know they are all coming
from the same place equipment-wise. Of course, some students lack of
embouchure development, practice, etc can negate the benefits.

Good luck,
Ed

   
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