Klarinet Archive - Posting 000987.txt from 1997/09

From: "Craig E. G. Countryman" <cegc@-----.net>
Subj: Re: My first clarinet
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 00:08:56 -0400

Unfortuneately, Sarah, most people our age aren't like you! Especially
in a school band level where some people are just in it for the social
aspects and not so much because they want to major in music. There are
exceptions to every rule, and in this case being that exception is
fabulous, but the majority of kids really don't take care of their
instruments.

At the music store where I take lessons, there is a never ending line of
repairs from schools coming in. This is not to say that all of them are
due to neglect, a good many are normal wear and tear, but some of the
problems with them are inexcusable. Some of these instruments are
beaten, neglected, and forgotten about until they are finally shipped
off for a total overhaul.

Part of the problem, I think, is that some kids aren't taught proper
care of their instrument right from the start. This is the
responsibility of the band director, but when you have a brass player
for a band director, the clarinet section probably won't get the
specialized attention it needs. It may get the basics, but there may be
some key areas missed. Then there are those directors who just don't
teach it! Luckily, around here the kids from my middle school got
excellent training on taking care of our horns, but the neighboring
middle school kids weren't so lucky! As a result, you can see a big
difference between the work ethic of the kids, and also of their
instrument care.

I appreciate your ancedote; it would be great if there were a lot more
people just as dedicated as you!

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

Quote of the Day:

"Inspiration may be a form of superconciousness,
or perhaps of subconciousness--I wouldn't know.
But I am sure it is the antithesis of
self-conciousness." -Aaron Copland