Klarinet Archive - Posting 000203.txt from 1997/08

From: trbaun@-----. Baun)
Subj: Re: How young is too young?
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 16:55:59 -0400

Charles wrote:
>
> At 03:29 AM 8/6/97 -0400, you wrote:
> >For whatever it's worth I do think that 7 is to young for the simple reason
> >of holding the clarinet to begin with. I would question whether his hands
> >are big enough to hold and manipulate the key mechanisims. I would also
> >question whether he could make the spread required in the hands to properly
> >close the holes. In a person who demonstrates this kind of musical abilities
> >and intelligence it might be more harmful to start him and let him experience
> >the difficulties that can be expected, than to keep him waiting until his
> >body has caught up with his interests. Just my personal opinion. It has
> >also been the subject of a study that people who start earlier than 6 grade
> >do not show anymore of an improvement over those who start in 6th.
> >
> >Cheryl
>
> Two years of piano with a good teacher is a priceless prerequisite for all
> band instruments! Charlie
> >
I agree totally with this, too! I wish I had had piano lessons earlier
than college! I have found that it is relatively easy for people to
switch between instruments once one has learned one to a certain degree
and has learned the basics of music.

-Tara R. Baun