Klarinet Archive - Posting 000319.txt from 1998/06

From: "Jay D. Webler" <webler@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Re: Normandy Clarinet
Date: Tue, 9 Jun 1998 01:58:39 -0400

Gregg,

When I was younger, many centuries ago, I wish that I had someone who could guide me in the choice of
a Clarinet. When I received my first Buffet (a midrange model) I was thankful and proceeded to play it for years. I did not
learn until
recently that it was the cause of some of my frustration in trying to play difficult concertos. I could have been spared
years of frustration with the proper guidance. Thankfully I ended up playing percussion in the Air Force so I didn't have
to deal with the frustration on a regular basis. I recently have purchased a new expensive clarinet and have made more
progress in 3 weeks than I have in years. Also, now that I see progress, I am inclined to practice more. Presently I am
putting in 2 to 3 hours a day. (The family is not to happy about this since it is done mostly at night and early morning.)
The point is that, all things being equal, a better horn will help you to play better. You said it yourself when you said that
you noticed a big improvement when playing the Normandy 4. If you can't afford a better instrument at this time than
don't let all this talk about better instruments discourage you from working hard. Most of my practice is still done on the
old clarinet until the new one is broken in. Keep working hard and when you get that better clarinet you will appreciate
even more. (Hopefully you won't drop it). I believe that your teacher probably has your best interest in mind. I know that
the general music teacher that I had was truly interested in seeing me improve. I still speak to him occasionally and he
is glad that I'm back on the Clarinet, and is still giving me advice.

Lastly, I would like to apologize to all student clarinet players out there. If in my zeal I have discouraged anyone please
forgive me. Sometimes we just forget who's looking in. This has been a good reminder to me to be more careful
with my comments. It is my desire to inspire young players, not dicourage them.

Jay Webler
webler@-----.net

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