Klarinet Archive - Posting 001156.txt from 1997/08

From: "David C. Blumberg" <reedman@-----.com>
Subj: Beginner to 4th year study books-Galper Method
Date: Wed, 27 Aug 1997 13:39:30 -0400

A while ago the Galper Clarinet Method was mentioned. I just got a copy of
book 1, and book 2. Really, really good books! Teachers of students from
day 1 to year 4 should consider getting this series. The cost is $6.95 and
the U.S. distributor is Luyben Music (800)258-9236 (the publisher is
Waterloo, but do call Luyben in the US.(as the book is canadian). They
carry the book, and keep it in stock. Great, musical material from one of
the top teachers in the business. Galper is the ret. Principal Clarinet of
the Toronto Sym. for 30 years. If your tired of the rubank, band methods,
or just want a more musical book to train your students with - these are
the books. I enclose a review of the series that I did.

The search for the ideal Clarinet Method for beginners is now over. The
Galper Clarinet Method books 1 and 2 are the answer. Typically, Clarinet
students have been taught by various band methods, or non-Clarinet specific
study books. Galper is a renound Master teacher, with students playing
professionally throughout the world. His Clarinet Method book 1 starts from
day 1 of playing and progresses through the first 2 years. Special
attention is given to the low register, and to legato playing. At the top
of each lesson page are detailed instruction on the current lesson, what
new topics are taught, and how to do them properly. Detailed diagrams of
the clarinet, with an identical drawing of the clarinet keys for fingering
combinations are given when new notes are introduced. The upper octave
(over the break) notes are taught with F as the first note. This is a very
musical well laid out book for the beginning clarinetist. It can be used
with lessons, or independently. Piano chords are given for each song, so an
accompaniment can be used for practice or performance. Galper includes many
performance tips throughout the book. Book 1 is designed to be used for the
first 2 years of playing.

Book 2 of the Galper Method is designed for the young advancing student.
This book is well suited for students in their 3rd to 4th year of playing.
There are tips on how to practice, and detailed fingering combinations
throughout the book. There are numerous warm-up studies including some of
the Kroepsch exercises. The studies are not too long for the younger
student ( 10 to 25 measures typically). These studies are highly melodic,
and are not only good for technique, but for advancing the musicality of
the student. The range of the book is up to high E, but special attention
is given to the lower, and middle register. Galper states that developing
the lower register is the key to getting a good sound throughout the range
of the Clarinet. Book 2 is an ideal bridge between the beginner, and the
advancing student who would be ready for more difficult studies such as the
Hite Melodious and Progressive Studies (Southern Music Publ.).
Avrahm Galper's new Clarinet method will revolutionize the way that the
Clarinet is taught.

David C. Blumberg
Principal Clarinet Riverside Sym.
Adjunct Woodwind Instructor Univ. of Penn.
reedman@-----.com