Klarinet Archive - Posting 000169.txt from 1997/08

From: "Craig E. G. Countryman" <cegc@-----.net>
Subj: Re: How young is too young?
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 10:39:10 -0400

I would disagree with the notion a young person should start on Eb
Clarinet. It is fine in theory, but I think the Eb is a whole different
instrument that really takes an indepth study, for coordination, tricks,
etc. To then tell a young person, ok now you have to learn a whole new
instrument, is not wise I believe.

Being someone who does a lot of Eb playing (and loves it) it really
shocks you to go back to the Bb. This kind of shock is detrimental to a
young person who has never picked up the instrument. I would just wait
a year and start them on Bb.

Also, I think a good start is important, so maybe when they are a year
older and more mature it will help their playing. If someone is too
young they may develop bad habits which will be hard to shake.

I have a friend who started when she was in 5th grade, and I who started
playing in 7th. We are at almost the same ability now -- though she is
a little better -- and while I had to pour a lot of time into it to
catch up to her playing, the difference now is almost negligable.

Bottom line is that it varies from case to case. And if the young
person doesn't start playing, they can still listen and enjoy music,
which may foster better musicianship later in life.

----------------
Craig Countryman
cegc@-----.net
http://www.geocities.com/Vienna/1711

Quote of the Day:

"That's what show business is -- sincere insincerity."
-Benny Hill

   
     Copyright © Woodwind.Org, Inc. All Rights Reserved    Privacy Policy    Contact charette@woodwind.org