Klarinet Archive - Posting 001167.txt from 1997/09

From: "Delagi, Nancy" <ndelagi@-----.com>
Subj: Choosing a clarinet, etc.
Date: Fri, 26 Sep 1997 09:42:45 -0400

At the ripe old age of 33 I've decided I want to play the clarinet.
I've never played an instrument before and can't read music yet. Benny
Goodman is my inspiration and I'd eventually like to play his music, but
I'm thinking I should start with classical training and learn jazz
later. Is this the right way to go?

I'd like to get some help in choosing an instrument and I'm intimidated
by what I've read here over the past week. Buy or rent; wood or
plastic; B-flat or E-flat or contra-alto; Boehm vs. somebody,
cylindrical bore, embouchure, reeds, ligature, breathing, let's not even
mention fingering charts yet! I know more than I did a week ago but I
don't feel at all qualified to make a decision. Would it be best to
find an instructor first and let him advise? How can I tell if I've
found a good instructor? Is there a FAQ, web site or book that has a
comprehensive explanation of how and what to choose?

If anybody has the strength to go over this again - I'm sure it's been
discussed many times - I would really appreciate some advice.

Thanks,
Nancy
ndelagi@-----.com