Klarinet Archive - Posting 000156.txt from 1997/06

From: Michael Kolos <clarinet@-----.net>
Subj: Re: what to listen to
Date: Fri, 13 Jun 1997 23:31:51 -0400

SCHEER@-----.ca wrote:
>
> I've been playing the clarinet for about ten years now..taking
> lessons..just completed a Grade nine exam here in CAnada which
> is three from the top you can go. I find my technique is improving
> quite well but I have a tremendous amount of difficulty with
> phrasing and musicality. Many people have suggested I need to listen
> to more recordings. I do have a few recordings..the Weber, a few
> Mozarts..Copeland's..but I don't know what to listen to in order
> to really improve my appreciation of music and my ability to phrase
> things intelligently.
>
> If anyone can help with suggestions I would really appreciate it.
>
> Thanks in advance,
>
> Alan Scheer
> scheer@-----.ca

If you only listen to clarinet recordings you will not learn more than
one aspect of musicality. You probably will only pick up on the
technical portion of the recordings - the performer's sound, skill, etc.

Try listening to the top groups and compare to what makes them better
than say a mediocre group. Tafelmusik is a great ensemble. Also listen
to other solo instruments. Basically, listen to as much music as you
can, and as many styles as you can. Definately don't limit yourself,
because every player you don't hear and every style and/or piece you
don't hear may have something that is a great inspiration to you that
you're missing out on. I know I've heard the same piece played a number
of times and never thought much of it, and then heard another recording
that made the piece suddenly stand out as outstanding in my mind.

And don't expect to gain musicality by listening to a few recordings a
week. It'll take years.

Michael