Klarinet Archive - Posting 000017.txt from 1997/09

From: "Craig E. G. Countryman" <cegc@-----.net>
Subj: Re: A student's multiple questions
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 1997 13:06:52 -0400

Question 1: I would think that the sightreading section wouldn't have as
big an impact as the other parts of the audition. It was probably dumb
for them to get something for A Clarinet, but what can you do? I admire
you for trying to transpose, but maybe it might have been better to
not. If they were testing you on the fingering patterns on the page, it
would have messed things up. Maybe if this happens again ask the judges
what you should do.

Question 2: Well, it would probably help to have a teacher help you
since he would better know your playing abilities, but for a few method
books you could try read the articles at:
http://sneezy.mika.com:80/OCR/articles/spring1.html
http://sneezy.mika.com:80/OCR/articles/stanek1.html

These two I found to be interesting and beneficial. A lot of the books
recommended in the latter I've used and found much success with.

Question 3: Well, I really don't know. I suppose that a B45 is always
the preference, but does it really work better? I would be inclined to
say yes from my VERY limited experience beginning on a generic and then
moving to the B45. I did notice a big improvement, however at the same
time I switched from the school's plastic clarinet to my own wood one.
Both were probably factors, but individually I'm not sure how much
effect each had. Bottom line though: if you can, go for the B45 (or
equivilant).

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

Quote of the Day:

"Accusing the times is but excusing
ourselves." -English proverb