Klarinet Archive - Posting 000870.txt from 2003/05

From: "CLARK FOBES " <reedman@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] Suitable colleges ( was orchestra)
Date: Sat, 31 May 2003 10:14:18 -0400

I understand the desire of a young student to learn orchestral repertoire,
but the fact is most clarinetists that graduate with a performance degree
will never play in a professional orchestra.

I would strongly urge any music student to search out a teacher that is a
good fit and will provide solid musical and technical training on his/her
instrument. The years from 18-22 are perhaps the most important in
developing a thorough discipline for CONTINUED musical study. The best
teachers provide tools that one can use the rest of his life for pursuing
music at the highest level. Focusing on orchestral playing at such a young
age is in my opinion counter productive to developing a larger appreciation
of music in general.

The only way to learn orchestral repertoire is to do a lot of listening and
to actually play the repertoire. A teacher cannot hand over this kind of
experience, but he can train you in the skills of developing a solid
command of your instrument and help you in developing your ensemble skills.

And don't forget that college is a great opportunity to learn about the
world beyond music!

CLARK FOBES
reedman@-----.com
Why Wait? Move to EarthLink.

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