Klarinet Archive - Posting 000076.txt from 2001/01

From: rgarrett@-----.edu
Subj: Re: [kl] Community bands and clarinets
Date: Tue, 2 Jan 2001 20:13:44 -0500

At 08:13 PM 01/02/2001 +0000, you wrote:
>I think the topic creates so much debate is because a lot of us were
>taught that you had to run scale in order to warm up (or something like
>that). Even now, 20 after I've had lessons, I can't separate 'technique'
>from playing musically. I guess, my training was too regimented.

The scales are great for warm-ups - they get your fingers moving and your
ears going - and they are just real good for checking your reed, getting
your air going, reviewing, etc.......

But the real reason teachers have you learn scales is to pre-learn the
diatonic sequences it is assumed you will be playing. The ability to play
evenly and with control in B major or Bb major - is important - at all
speeds. This is also why thirds, arpeggios, 4ths, 5ths, whole tone scales,
etc. etc. are important to memorize and learn. But they really only
contribute to realizing a musical experience if you need to use the
techniques in the music.

I don't think your training was too regimented - but you should try to
understand why your training emphasizes these things.

Sincerely,
Roger Garrett

Roger Garrett
Assistant Professor of Clarinet
Director, Symphonic Winds
Advisor, IWU Recording Services
Illinois Wesleyan University
School of Music
Bloomington, IL 61702-2900
Phone: (309) 556-3268
Fax: (309) 556-3121

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